Bobby McMann praises Leafs’ physicality, speed as defining factors in comeback win vs. Penguins

The Toronto Maple Leafs mounted a monumental comeback on Monday night, rebounding from a three-goal deficit to beat the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3.

Entering the third period, the Leafs had yet to score, with just eight shots on net through 40 minutes played. As the puck dropped on the final frame, they came out hot, tying things up in just seven minutes before Bobby McMann scored the eventual game-winner.

Speaking to media after the game, McMann touched on the shift he saw in the team to start the third period.

“I think a few guys just kind of took over,” McMann said. “Being physical, playing fast, and trying to get pucks into their zone. Then one went in for us, and I think we really took off at that point.”

That heavy momentum shift was astounding considering how disorganized the team had looked through the first two frames. Asked what was said in the locker room at the second intermission to spark that comeback, McMann said it was all about remembering the style of hockey they want to play.

“It was just about our game plan,” he said. “I think we just wanted to compete harder. We knew that wasn’t our best, those first two periods, so we were just holding each other accountable to be better.”

Tallying the game-winning goal was not just a win for Toronto, but for McMann himself, who had failed to register a point in his previous eight appearances entering Monday. While he conceded it was nice to get one in, the 29-year-old said his focus was on putting it away for the team above all else.

“It felt good,” McMann said. “I mean, just to get one there late in the game, that was the most important thing to win the game. Anytime I can contribute and we can win the game, that’s the most fun.”

The Maple Leafs now have a day off before they continue their four-game homestand on Wednesday, set to host the Utah Mammoth.