Leafs’ second line stars in 7-2 win over Flyers

TORONTO – The Toronto Maple Leafs bounced back in a big way Tuesday night, with their second line playing a starring role in the victory.

William Nylander, John Tavares, and Bobby McMann combined to score five of the Leafs’ goals in a 7-2 win over the Philadelphia Flyers. Nylander contributed two assists, while Tavares also added one as Toronto bounced back from a 5-2 loss to Nashville.

“I think we all bring a different dynamic,” McMann said. “John is so cerebral, he’s able to see plays all over the ice. Willie’s just so good at generating with his speed, with how quick his feet are and how quick his hands are.

“I’m just trying to be competitive, get pucks back, and open up space for those guys.”

Leafs head coach Craig Berube credited the success of the line to adding McMann alongside Nylander and Tavares.

“I think since putting Bobby on there, it adds so much speed and strength to the line,” Berube said. “He’s a big, strong guy that can skate. Seems like he’s always on the puck.

“Creates some battles for those guys. They (Tavares and Nylander) get the puck and obviously they can make plays, Johnny can score. So they’ve been effective for us since we put them together, I’ve been happy with them.”

Down 1-0, Tavares scored to tie the game at 10:37 of the first period, and Nylander added a power-play goal with 4:49 left in the frame.

McMann’s 20th goal of the season early in the second period sparked a four-goal period for the Leafs. Tavares and Nylander continued the scoring, with David Kampf adding a breakaway goal to seal the victory.

Max Domi scored for the Leafs in the third period.

Nylander’s two goals helped him reach a career-high of 40 goals for the season, marking the third consecutive season he has achieved this milestone.

“Just trying to do what I’m paid to do, that’s it,” Nylander said.

Tavares extended his goal streak to three games and his points streak to four (five goals, three assists) with his performance.

“I’ve been continuing to work at things,” Tavares said. “Each and every night, it’s a new game, a new night to go out there and execute and play well and find ways to contribute.

“No doubt on the scoresheet when you create opportunities and want to finish them and make plays when they’re there. And obviously, generating momentum for the team, so I’m happy with where that’s at.”

The win put the Leafs ahead of the Florida Panthers in the Atlantic Division, both teams tied at 89 points with 11 games remaining. Toronto has had an inconsistent month of March, going 5-5-1, with the loss to Nashville snapping a three-game win streak.

However, Tavares was pleased with his team’s performance on Tuesday.

“I just like the way we stuck with our game,” Tavares said. “We didn’t get away from things that we’re doing well.

“Much better type of mindset we had on sticking with our game and trusting. We do that, the type of team that we have, the depth that we have, it sets us up well to create opportunities, build a lead, and control the game.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on March 25, 2025.