The Toronto Maple Leafs Gear Up for Calgary: A Test Without Marner
The Toronto Maple Leafs, riding high from their entertaining win in Edmonton, are set to face the Calgary Flames in a highly anticipated game on Tuesday night at 9:00 p.m. EST. The contest, which will air on TSN4/Sportsnet West, marks a critical opportunity for the Leafs to continue their winning streak in Western Canada. However, their plans might be scrambled if forward Mitch Marner sits out due to injury.
Calgary Head Coach Ryan Huska’s Perspective
In a recent press conference, Flames head coach Ryan Huska highlighted the challenge presented by the Maple Leafs, a team renowned for their skillful players and dynamic style. “With the skill set of their top players, you have to know where they are on the ice,” Huska said. “We have to be ready for more of a trench-type game where you have to be prepared to compete along the walls.”
Huska also acknowledged the intense fan presence expected at the Saddledome, describing it as “like a road game at times.” However, he emphasized that these conditions will not affect their approach. “We are going to come out and try to initiate, dictate, and set the tone tonight,” Huska stated.
A Nazem Kadri Return Against Former Team
Nazem Kadri, who moved from the Flames to the Leafs this off-season, approached the matchup with a mix of excitement and focus. “It’s always fun playing against former teams and friends,” Kadri commented. “First and foremost, we need the points in the standings. You have to set it aside and go out and play.”
Chris Tanev: Honoring the Legacy of a Former Flame
Tanev’s lengthy stint with the Flames was marked by consistency and leadership. “His consistency was off the charts,” Huska recalled. “He played through things like no other player I’ve seen. It’s pretty impressive what he will do for his teammates.” Tanev, now with the Leafs, mirrored his coach’s sentiment: “A true competitor and a warrior. He will do anything for his team.”
Maple Leafs Prepare for a Tough Test
Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube acknowledged the Flames’ hard-working nature and the additions of newcomers Morgan Frost and Joel Farabee. “Their goaltending has been lights out,” Berube noted, highlighting the importance of solid defense for both teams.
With the potential absence of Marner, Berube sees Max Domi as a valuable substitute on the top line. “Max is a passer, and we need a passer on that line with Matthews and Knies,” Berube explained. “When the rushes are there, take them, but make good decisions with the puck.”
Kayfabe or Real Chemistry?
Domi and Auston Matthews have a history that predates the current season. “We haven’t played with each other this year, but it’s a great opportunity,” Domi shared. Berube echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for the entire team to step up. “Everyone has to execute at a high level,” he said.
The Importance of Each Game
Chris Tanev recognized the significance of each match as the regular season progresses. “Win one, lose one, and the standings change quite dramatically,” he remarked. With three games until the break, Tanev knows that consistency will be key.
John Tavares on Team Resilience
Tavares echoed Tanev’s sentiment, emphasizing the collective effort needed. “We are never replacing Mitch Marner,” he said. “It’s just on the group to come together, as we have at many points this season with different guys in and out of the lineup.”
Head-to-Head Stats: Leafs Dominate in Offense, Flames in Defense
In the 2024-25 regular season statistics, Toronto holds the advantage in three out of five offensive categories, but Calgary holds the advantage in three out of five defensive categories.
Toronto Maple Leafs Expected Starting Lineup
Forwards
Matthew Knies — Auston Matthews — Max Domi
Max Pacioretty — John Tavares — William Nylander
Bobby McMann — Pontus Holmberg — Nick Robertson
Steven Lorentz — David Kampf — Ryan Reaves
Defensemen
Jake McCabe — Chris Tanev
Morgan Rielly — Oliver Ekman-Larsson
Simon Benoit — Conor Timmins
Goaltenders
Starter: Joseph Woll
Matt Murray
Injured (day-to-day): Mitch Marner
Extras: Dakota Mermis, Philippe Myers
Injured (IR): Connor Dewar
Injured (LTIR): Anthony Stolarz, Calle Jarnkrok, Jani Hakanpää
Calgary Flames Expected Starting Lineup
Forwards
Jonathan Huberdeau — Nazem Kadri — Joel Farabee
Blake Coleman — Mikael Backlund — Matt Coronato
Yegor Sharangovich — Morgan Frost — Martin Pospisil
Ryan Lomberg — Kevin Rooney — Adam Klapka
Defensemen
Joel Hanley — Rasmus Andersson
Jake Bean — MacKenzie Weegar
Tyson Barrie — Brayden Pachal
Goaltenders
Starter: Dustin Wolf
Dan Vladar
Injured: Anthony Mantha, Connor Zary, Kevin Bahl, Justin Kirkland
Stay Tuned for Live Coverage and Updates
As the game kicks off, be sure to tune in to TSN4/Sportsnet West for live coverage. Fans can also expect updates and analysis on our platform throughout the night. This rivalry is sure to be a thrill, and we’re excited to bring you all the action.
Which team do you think will come out victorious? Share your thoughts in the comments below!