As the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs continue to heat up, all eyes turn to Sunrise, Florida, where the Toronto Maple Leafs hold a commanding 2-0 series lead over the defending champion Florida Panthers. With Game 3 set for Friday night at 7 p.m. ET on TNT and Sportsnet, the pressure is squarely on the Panthers to respond — and fast.
Leafs Firing on All Cylinders
Toronto’s offensive prowess has been on full display so far in this series. Powered by the red-hot line of Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and Matthew Knies, the Leafs have struck early and often. That trio has now contributed a combined seven goals at 5-on-5, establishing themselves as one of the most dangerous lines in the postseason.
William Nylander continues to elevate his game, scoring in three straight playoff appearances. With six goals and 13 points so far, Nylander is having one of the most productive playoff runs for a Maple Leaf since Doug Gilmour’s 1993 postseason surge.
Goaltender Joseph Woll has been reliable, stepping in for the injured Anthony Stolarz and stopping 25 of 28 shots in Game 2. While Woll may not be a household name yet, his poise in the crease has given Toronto the edge it needs to close games effectively.
Panthers Struggle in the Crease
The Panthers’ goalie situation is becoming a major concern. Veteran Sergei Bobrovsky has given up nine goals over the first two games, tying the second-worst two-game stretch of his playoff career. Florida will need Bobrovsky to return to his Vezina-caliber form if they hope to make this series competitive.
In an attempt to inject some energy into the lineup, head coach Paul Maurice has shuffled the bottom line. Mackie Samoskevich, Nico Sturm, and Jesper Boqvist have been replaced by A.J. Greer, Tomas Nosek, and Jonah Gadjovich. With both Nosek and Gadjovich making their postseason debut this year, the Panthers are clearly hoping for some fresh legs and physicality on home ice.
Despite their 0-2 hole, the Panthers are not out yet — but history is not on their side. Florida has never won a best-of-seven series after trailing 0-2 (0-5 all time). Meanwhile, Toronto has converted 84% of its 2-0 leads into series wins.
Player to Watch: Brad Marchand
Although the Panthers trail, Brad Marchand remains a key threat. With a goal in Game 2, Marchand now has 32 career playoff points against the Maple Leafs — the fourth-most in NHL history against the franchise. Only Gordie Howe, Alex Delvecchio, and Henri Richard have more.
Marchand’s experience and ability to get under the skin of opponents could prove vital in rallying the Panthers, especially if he can draw penalties and swing momentum.
What to Expect in Game 3
The Panthers return home to Amerant Bank Arena in desperate need of a win. Florida must tighten up defensively and find a way to slow down Toronto’s relentless top-six forwards. Special teams will likely play a crucial role as both teams look to control the pace and establish dominance early.
If the Maple Leafs can continue their offensive rhythm and receive solid goaltending from Woll, they could very well take a 3-0 series lead and put the defending champions on the brink of elimination.
How to Watch
Game 3:
🗓️ Friday, May 10, 2025
🕖 7:00 p.m. ET
📺 Broadcast: TNT | Sportsnet+
Additional Reading:
Toronto fans are hopeful, Florida fans are anxious, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. With the Stanley Cup hanging in the balance, Game 3 promises intensity, drama, and playoff magic.
