Winter Storm Delays Start Time for Leafs-Red Wings Game

The Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings have announced a delayed start time for their game tonight due to inclement weather. Originally scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, the puck drop will now take place at 7:30 p.m. ET.

According to TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston, the winter storm currently affecting parts of the United States and Canada has disrupted the Red Wings’ travel plans, prompting the league to push back the start time.

This weather-related rescheduling follows the NHL‘s adjustments to start times for Monday’s games involving the Washington Capitals and Pittsburgh Penguins, as well as the Buffalo Sabres and New York Rangers. The severe weather conditions in Western New York had also led to the rescheduling of the Buffalo Bills’ and Kansas City Chiefs’ playoff game.

The Toronto Maple Leafs will have goaltender Ilya Samsonov starting in net for Sunday’s game, as confirmed by head coach Sheldon Keefe during the morning skate. Samsonov had previously started for the team on Saturday night, but struggled with a 5-3 loss against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The Russian goaltender has had a challenging season, with a .862 save percentage and 3.94 goals-against average in 15 games. The Leafs waived Samsonov after a disappointing performance in a 6-5 loss to the New York Rangers on December 29. He was subsequently sent down to the Toronto Marlies in the AHL, but did not make an appearance at that level before being recalled.