The Toronto Maple Leafs’ offense came alive tonight, putting up four goals in the first two periods en route to a 7-4 victory over the Nashville Predators.
Auston Matthews scored twice, including a third-period wrist shot assisted by rookie Easton Cowan — marking Cowan’s first career NHL point. Matthews later sealed the win with an empty-net goal, capping off a dominant performance from the Leafs’ top line.
Newly acquired goaltender Cayden Primeau made his first home start for Toronto and held strong for most of the night, allowing only two goals until the final minutes. Roman Josi cut the lead to 5-3 late in the third, but Toronto responded quickly before Nashville added a late goal to make it 7-4.
John Tavares led the way with a three-point night (1 goal, 2 assists), while Matthew Knies added three assists and William Nylander contributed a goal and two helpers. Veteran defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson also stood out with a goal, two assists, and four blocked shots.
Toronto improves to 2-1 on the season and will next face the New York Rangers on Thursday.
Top Maple Leafs Performers:
- Auston Matthews: 2 goals
- John Tavares: 1 goal, 2 assists
- William Nylander: 1 goal, 2 assists
- Matthew Knies: 3 assists
- Oliver Ekman-Larsson: 1 goal, 2 assists, 4 blocks