NHL Preview: Toronto Maple Leafs (34-20-2) vs. Chicago Blackhawks (17-32-7)

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The Toronto Maple Leafs (34-20-2) are set to face off against the Chicago Blackhawks (17-32-7) on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at the United Center in Chicago. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET.

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Team Overview

Toronto Maple Leafs: The Maple Leafs are currently second in the Atlantic Division and are looking to build on their recent 6-3 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes. Pontus Holmberg scored two goals in that game, and team captain Auston Matthews added an empty-netter to pass Darryl Sittler for second place on the Leafs’ all-time goal-scoring list. The Maple Leafs have been strong on the road, with a 14-9-2 record, and they have been particularly effective when committing fewer penalties than their opponents, going 10-6-0 in such games.

Chicago Blackhawks: The Blackhawks are currently last in the Central Division and are on a two-game losing streak. They recently suffered a 5-1 defeat against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Over their last five games, they have faced two blowout losses, including another 5-1 loss to the Florida Panthers on February 1. However, the Blackhawks did secure a 6-2 win over the Nashville Predators on February 7, giving them some reason for optimism despite their struggles.

Key Players

Toronto Maple Leafs:

  • Auston Matthews: Leading the team with 22 goals and 25 assists.
  • William Nylander: Has seven goals and three assists over the past 10 games.

Chicago Blackhawks:

  • Connor Bedard: Leading the team with 16 goals and 33 assists.
  • Ryan Donato: Has six goals and six assists over the past 10 games.

Recent Form

Toronto Maple Leafs: The Maple Leafs have been solid, going 6-4-0 in their last 10 games. They average 3.5 goals per game while allowing 2.6 goals.

Chicago Blackhawks: The Blackhawks have been struggling, going 2-4-4 in their last 10 games. They average three goals per game while allowing 3.6 goals.

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