The Toronto Maple Leafs are set to host the Florida Panthers in the second round of the playoffs on Tuesday night. The Leafs earned their spot in the second round with a thrilling overtime victory against the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 6 on Saturday. The upcoming game against the Panthers is the Leafs’ deepest playoff run in almost two decades, and fans are expected to show their support in full force. While the Leafs had a successful regular season against the Panthers, winning three out of four matchups, experts are predicting a tough and competitive series that could potentially last six games.
Despite the Panthers’ impressive record from the previous season and a few injuries this year, the Leafs are considered the favorites to win the series. The team boasts a more talented and better defensive lineup, according to TSN radio host Matt Cauz. The Leafs’ projected lineup for the upcoming game includes Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and Matthews Knies on the top line, John Tavares, Mitch Marner, and Calle Jarnkrok on the second line, and Ryan O’Reilly, Noel Acciari, and Michael Bunting on the third line.
Fans attending the game at Scotiabank Arena can also look forward to the expanded tailgate area at Maple Leaf Square, which includes an additional viewing zone along Bremner Boulevard. However, due to the high demand for free mobile passes, some fans are reportedly putting up their passes for sale. The police will also have an increased presence around the area of Scotiabank Arena to ensure everyone’s safety during the game. Additionally, the Panthers have decided to limit ticket sales to US residents for the first 24 hours in an effort to reduce the number of Leafs fans at their home games in the series.