Auston Matthews showcased his skills with a three-point period, tying him for third in franchise history for such performances, as the Toronto Maple Leafs secured a vital win over the Tampa Bay Lightning. The win kept them close to the Atlantic Division-leading Florida Panthers. Jake Guentzel's 15th power-play goal of the season bolstered the Lightning, currently maintaining second place in the division.

Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils' Jake Allen delivered an impressive 45-save performance against the Columbus Blue Jackets, denying them crucial points in the Eastern Conference Wild Card race. This was a tightly contested day in the NHL, with four out of five games decided by one or two goals. As the league progresses, the playoff race intensifies, particularly in the Eastern Conference where multiple teams vie for the final Wild Card spots.