Maple Leafs Win Game 1 with Knies’ Game-Winning Goal Against Panthers

TORONTO, Canada — The Toronto Maple Leafs took a key victory in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Second Round, beating the Florida Panthers 5-4 at Scotiabank Arena on Monday. The standout performer was forward Matthew Knies, who scored the game-winning goal.

Knies, who is 22 years old and stands 6-foot-3, 227 pounds, has emerged as a difference-maker for the Maple Leafs during the playoffs. His backhanded shot in the third period secured the lead for Toronto at 5-3, and proved crucial in the tense final minutes of the match.

“I just wanted to go up high on his glove side,” Knies said, reflecting on the goal scored at 14:00 of the third period. “We’ve done a lot of video, and I thought that, after I got one on him earlier in the season, I just wanted to elevate it.” He finished the game with one goal and one assist, bringing his postseason total to five points.

Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube praised Knies for his skills. “He’s got great hands in tight,” Berube said. “I didn’t know that when I first came in here, but that was a great example of it with the goal he scored.”

William Nylander also made a significant impact, scoring two goals and assisting on another in the first period, setting an aggressive tone for the game. “We came out and got a couple of good scoring chances and were able to capitalize,” Nylander said after the game.

The victory was not free of challenges. Starting goalie Anthony Stolarz had to leave in the second period after taking a hit to the head. Joseph Woll stepped in and made 17 key saves to maintain the lead. “Joe stepped up. No panic. That’s exactly what we needed,” Berube remarked.

The Panthers fought back fiercely, narrowing the gap to 5-4 with three goals in the third period. But Toronto’s defense held strong, aided by key plays from players like Knies and Tanev, who emphasized the need to regain control during the game.

With this win, the Maple Leafs now hold a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 is set to take place on Wednesday at 7 p.m. ET.