The Toronto Maple Leafs bounced back from a recent losing streak with a strong 7-4 victory over the Nashville Predators on Tuesday. John Tavares and Oliver Ekman-Larsson led the charge with a goal and two assists each. Auston Matthews contributed two goals, including an empty-netter, while Jake McCabe and Bobby McMann added to Toronto’s offense. Goalie Cayden Primeau made 26 crucial saves, and William Nylander and Matthew Knies also made significant contributions with goals and assists.
On the other side, Nick Perbix, Michael McCarron, Erik Haula, and Roman Josi scored for the Nashville Predators, with Justus Annunen making 22 saves in the matchup of backup goalies. Notable assists came from Ozzy Wiesblatt and Adam Wilsby.
This win was particularly special for Primeau, who recently joined the team from the Carolina Hurricanes and secured his first NHL victory since November 27, 2024, when he played for the Montreal Canadiens. The victory was a much-needed response for Toronto after a tough loss to the Detroit Red Wings, while Nashville was coming off a strong win against the Senators in Ottawa.
In a tight game tied 2-2, the Leafs surged ahead in the second period with a goal from Tavares, assisted by Nylander and Ekman-Larsson after a skillful passing play.