ANAHEIM, Calif. — While a playoff matchup against the Anaheim Ducks is unlikely for the Toronto Maple Leafs, the game plan they employed to overcome a fast, youthful team could very well mirror their approach in the upcoming playoffs in mid-April.
Their victory formula was a blend of strong goaltending, dedicated shot blocking, impactful skill plays, and an unexpected hero.
In Sunday`s 3-2 victory in Anaheim, which secured five out of six possible points in California for the Atlantic Division leaders before they headed back from sunny weather to an ice storm, Steven Lorentz emerged as that crucial final element.
Despite facing a spirited Ducks team, who, despite being in a rebuilding phase, demonstrated their potential by outshooting (30-23), out-attempting (76-55), and out-chancing (36-32) the Maple Leafs, Toronto managed to prevail.
Lorentz`s skillful deflection of a point shot from David Kämpf slipped past Ducks goalie Lukas Dostal with under nine minutes remaining. This goal proved to be the deciding factor in a tightly contested game.
This was Lorentz’s seventh goal of the season and his fourth game-winning goal.
“I wasn’t aware it was my fourth game-winner, that’s great to hear,” Lorentz said, known for his positive attitude. As a role player with championship aspirations, he also brings valuable perspective to his team.
“I’ve experienced being on the other side, on teams like Anaheim, where despite their position in the standings, they are still competing for future opportunities and roles. We anticipated their strong effort today, and I believe we competed hard as well. We had some moments of weakness that we will review on video. Ultimately, we are pleased to get the win.”
