Toronto Maple Leafs’ line combinations versus the Florida Panthers for Round 2, Game 4

The Toronto Maple Leafs entered Game 4 leading the series 2–1, with the Florida Panthers winning Game 3 in overtime. Paul Maurice made significant changes to his lineup ahead of Game 3, which worked out. How would Craig Berube respond ahead of Game 4?

Ahead of Game 4, here are the Maple Leafs’ expected line combinations:

Forward lines

Matthew Knies–David Kampf (placeholder)–Mitch Marner
Max Pacioretty–John Tavares–William Nylander
Bobby McMann–Max Domi–Pontus Holmberg
Steven Lorentz–Scott Laughton–Calle Jarnkrok

Absent: Auston Matthews

Defence pairs

Morgan Rielly–Brandon Carlo
Jake McCabe–Chris Tanev
Simon Benoit–Oliver Ekman-Larson

Goaltenders

Joseph Woll
Matt Murray

Maple Leafs’ captain Auston Matthews was absent from practice, most likely to give him rest with what ever injury he has. However, he is still expected to play in tonight’s game. Matthews has faced criticism in previous playoffs series about not scoring goals. The three-time Rocket Richard winner has only scored two goals these playoffs. 

However, to say that Matthews has been a negative on offence is not true. He has picked up eight assists in the 11 playoff games this year. In Game 3, Matthews picked up two assists and is clearly not playing at 100%. Despite whatever ailments, Matthews has been an animal in the face-off dot, has been very good defensively, and has adapted his play to give time and space to linemates Mitch Marner and Matthew Knies to score.

Other than a bad second period, the Maple Leafs played a decent Game 3. The effort is probably why Berube is not making any significant changes ahead of Game 4. If necessary, Berube will make in-game adjustments, as we saw in Game 3.