Hurricanes and Maple Leafs Clash in Regular Season Finale

RALEIGH, N.C. — The Carolina Hurricanes will host the Toronto Maple Leafs on April 13, 2025, in their final home game of the regular season. Both teams are already secured a spot in the playoffs, making today’s matchup particularly compelling amid Toronto’s defensive injuries.

The Maple Leafs have surged in recent weeks, passing the 100-point mark for the fourth consecutive season. With a record of 10-2-1 in their last 13 games, they now hold a four-point lead over the Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers in the Atlantic Division. This impressive stretch comes after an early March slump where they lost four of five matchups.

Mitch Marner has been a standout player, leading Toronto with 72 assists, positioning him third overall in the NHL, and fourth in total points with 102. Marner’s recent performance includes 18 points over the last 13 games. He scored the overtime winner during their last game against the Montreal Canadiens, extending their winning streak to two games.

“We are feeling confident on the ice,” Marner said regarding their recent performance. “Every game matters now as we head into the playoffs.”

John Tavares has also been crucial for the Leafs, contributing 37 goals, marking his highest total since the 2018-19 season. Both he and Auston Matthews have also scored 17 points each over the past 13 games.

Despite their offensive prowess, Toronto’s power play has struggled recently, ranking sixth in the league with a 25.5 percent conversion rate. However, they have scored only one goal on the man advantage in the last six games, highlighting the need for improvement as playoff approaches.

In goal, the Maple Leafs are rotating between Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz, with Woll projected to start tonight. Stolarz earned a shutout in their recent victory over the Canadiens, but Woll will aim to build on his experience as they face Carolina.

The Hurricanes are at a pivotal moment as well, looking for a win to secure their fourth consecutive season with at least 50 wins and a franchise record of 32 home victories. A standout performer for Carolina is Seth Jarvis, who recently tied Eric Staal‘s franchise record for most home goals.

Frederik Andersen is expected to take the starting role in net after Pyotr Kochetkov‘s recent performances. Andersen’s leadership and experience will be essential as the Hurricanes look to build momentum heading into the playoffs.

Meanwhile, injuries could impact the Maple Leafs’ defensive strategy. Key players such as Jani Hakanpaa, Max Pacioretty, and Jake McCabe have been ruled out for the matchup. This leaves Toronto with only five defensemen as they prepare to face Carolina’s strong offense.

“Maintaining our defensive structure is crucial, especially with our injuries,” said Leafs head coach Craig Berube. “We’ll have to rely on our depth today.”

The stage is set for an intense showdown between the Hurricanes and the Maple Leafs at the Lenovo Center, with both teams eager to conclude their regular seasons on a high note.