In a thrilling Game 2 matchup of the Eastern Conference second-round playoff series, the Toronto Maple Leafs edged past the Florida Panthers with a close 5-4 victory on May 7, 2025. The game featured a flurry of goals, intense physical play, and a dramatic finish that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The action kicked off in the first period when Aleksander Barkov opened the scoring for the Panthers at 10:58, firing a shot past Leafs goaltender Joseph Woll during a power play. The Panthers capitalized on an early power play opportunity after Kulikov was called for interference. Despite some early struggles, Barkov's goal set the tone for what would be an eventful night.
Just as it seemed the Panthers were gaining momentum, the Leafs responded late in the first period. Max Pacioretty found the back of the net at 18:18, tipping in a shot from Morgan Rielly to tie the game at one. The first period ended with both teams showing flashes of brilliance, but it was clear that the physicality of the game was ramping up.
As the second period began, the intensity only increased. Just 15 seconds in, Brad Marchand of the Panthers regained the lead for his team, scoring off a pass from Anton Lundell. Marchand’s quick backhand shot caught Woll off guard, making it 2-1 for Florida.
However, the Leafs were not to be outdone. William Nylander equalized for Toronto just over four minutes later, scoring with a deft shot after receiving a pass from Pacioretty. The game was tied again at 2-2, showcasing the back-and-forth nature of the contest.
Max Domi then put the Leafs ahead at 17:09, scoring his second goal of the playoffs with a powerful one-timer from Steven Lorentz's feed. The crowd erupted as Toronto took a 3-2 lead, showcasing their resilience and ability to respond under pressure.
The second period was not without its controversies, however. A hard check from Scott Laughton on Panthers forward Evan Rodrigues led to a scuffle, resulting in Laughton receiving a double minor for roughing. Rodrigues was penalized for embellishment, a decision that drew the ire of many fans and commentators alike.
As the game progressed into the third period, the pace continued to quicken. The Panthers were determined to claw back, and they did just that when Anton Lundell tied the game again, making it 3-3. The Leafs, however, were quick to respond as Mitch Marner scored just seconds later, restoring the lead for Toronto at 4-3 with a long-range shot that sent the crowd into a frenzy.
With the game on the line, the tension was palpable. The Panthers pulled their goaltender, Sergei Bobrovsky, with just under three minutes remaining, hoping to capitalize on the extra skater. Despite their efforts, the Leafs managed to maintain their composure and hold on to their lead.
In the final moments, the Leafs' defense held strong, with Woll making a crucial save to keep the Panthers at bay. The crowd erupted as the final buzzer sounded, sealing a hard-fought victory for Toronto, who now lead the best-of-seven series 2-0.
This victory not only showcased the Leafs' offensive prowess but also highlighted their ability to withstand the pressure from a formidable opponent like the Panthers. As the series shifts to Florida for Game 3, both teams will look to capitalize on their strengths and make adjustments for the upcoming battle.
With the Maple Leafs looking to extend their series lead and the Panthers eager to bounce back, fans can expect another exciting showdown as the postseason unfolds. The stage is set for a dramatic continuation of this playoff saga.
