The Toronto Maple Leafs faced a crushing defeat against the Florida Panthers, losing 6-1 in Game 5 at home, leaving fans in shock and frustration. Trailing 4-0 after two periods, the crowd expressed their displeasure through boos, and some even left before the game concluded. Auston Matthews acknowledged the team's poor performance, indicating that the fans had little reason to stay. With the series now tied 2-2, the Leafs find themselves needing to win both remaining games to advance. Their goaltending situation was also concerning, with Joseph Woll pulled after allowing five goals and Matt Murray taking over. Game 6 looms as a must-win for Toronto as they head to Sunrise, Florida.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing roster uncertainties heading into Game 5 against the Florida Panthers, with coach Craig Berube denying any illness affecting the team. Notably, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, who previously missed practice due to sickness, is set to play, while David Kämpf's absence raises eyebrows as he often practices with the healthy scratches. Additionally, other healthy scratches like Nick Robertson and Ryan Reaves left the optional morning skate early, hinting at potential energy conservation.

Berube hinted that changes could be forthcoming, especially with the offensive needs of the team. Robertson, who has a knack for scoring after returning from being a healthy scratch, might be a candidate to step back into the lineup. With the stakes high, the winner of this pivotal Game 5 will significantly enhance their chances of advancing, with a record displaying a 79.3% success rate for teams that win this critical matchup when the series is tied 2-2.

The Toronto Maple Leafs faced a critical moment in their playoff journey with a 5-4 overtime loss to the Florida Panthers in Game 3, allowing the Panthers to stay alive in the series. After holding leads of 2-0 and 3-1, the Leafs couldn’t maintain momentum, a pattern that has haunted them in the second round of the playoffs. Despite the setback, historical context suggests that such comebacks by the Panthers are not typically indicative of longer series success, as only two of the last ten teams to pull off similar comebacks have gone on to win. Leafs superstar Auston Matthews remains without a goal in this round, raising questions about his postseason performance.

The next game will be pivotal for both teams. The Leafs need to prove they can reclaim their dominance and capitalize on scoring chances, while the Panthers are looking to build on their newfound momentum. Coach Craig Berube emphasized the need for the Leafs to maintain pressure and focus, suggesting that they must not get complacent when ahead.

Joseph Woll stepped into the spotlight for the Toronto Maple Leafs in their second-round playoff series against Florida, showcasing his ability under pressure with a solid 25-save performance in a 4-3 victory. This game marked his first full start since April, stepping in for Anthony Stolarz, who suffered a head injury. Woll’s history in the postseason is impressive, with a .950 save percentage in prior playoff appearances.

Despite his success, concerns arose over Stolarz's health following a hit that led to vomiting on the ice, raising questions about NHL concussion protocols. Coach Craig Berube expressed confidence in Woll's readiness, emphasizing the importance of experience as veteran Matt Murray served as backup. As the series progresses, Woll's current form could be pivotal for the Maple Leafs' playoff aspirations.

The Boston Bruins are facing injury challenges, with defenseman Hampus Lindholm absent from practice and Charlie McAvoy undergoing surgery to address an infection, sidelining him week-to-week. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Sabres have seen some positive news as Mattias Samuelsson returned to practice, and Jordan Greenway is expected back after a prolonged absence due to a mid-body injury.

In other updates, Nashville's Jeremy Lauzon will be out for up to six months with a lower-body injury, while the New Jersey Devils reported Nico Hischier's complete participation in practice. The New York Rangers are also navigating injury concerns, recalling goaltender Dylan Garand as Igor Shesterkin skated alone. The Ottawa Senators had forwards Shane Pinto and Josh Norris miss practice.