Date: May 7, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Venue: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, ON
Broadcast: ESPN, Sportsnet
Matchup Overview
The Florida Panthers (0-1) and Toronto Maple Leafs (1-0) meet for Game 2 of their Eastern Conference Second Round series in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Toronto secured a 5-4 victory in Game 1, jumping out to an early lead before holding off a late Panthers rally.
Florida, the defending Stanley Cup champions, will look to bounce back after a sloppy start in Game 1, while Toronto aims to take a 2-0 series lead before heading to Florida for Game 3.
Key Storylines
1. Can Florida Start Strong?
The Panthers struggled early in Game 1, falling behind 3-1 in the first period and 4-1 in the second before mounting a late comeback. They’ll need a more disciplined start to avoid chasing the game again.
2. Toronto’s Offensive Depth
William Nylander led the charge in Game 1 with two goals, while Morgan Rielly, Chris Tanev, and Matthew Knies also found the net. The Leafs’ ability to spread out scoring could be a major advantage.
3. Special Teams Battle
Toronto’s power play converted at 35.3% in Round 1, while Florida’s penalty kill went 16-for-18 against Tampa Bay. This matchup could be a deciding factor in Game 2.
4. Goaltending Duel – Bobrovsky vs. Stolarz/Woll
Sergei Bobrovsky allowed five goals on 28 shots in Game 1, struggling with high-danger chances. Toronto’s starter, Anthony Stolarz, was replaced by Joseph Woll after taking a hit to the head. If Woll starts Game 2, Florida may test him early.
Projected Starting Lineups
Florida Panthers
- LW: Matthew Tkachuk
- C: Aleksander Barkov
- RW: Sam Reinhart
- D: Gustav Forsling
- D: Brandon Montour
- G: Sergei Bobrovsky
Toronto Maple Leafs
- LW: William Nylander
- C: Auston Matthews
- RW: Mitch Marner
- D: Morgan Rielly
- D: Chris Tanev
- G: Joseph Woll (if Stolarz is unavailable)
Game Odds
Florida Panthers – 142
Toronto Maple Leafs 5.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, May 6, 2025
