Maple Leafs News and Rumors: Matthews, Domi, Samsonov and Liljegren – Hockey Writers – Toronto Maple Leafs

The Detroit Red Wings (38-32-9, 85 points) suffered a setback in their playoff pursuit Thursday with a loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins. Tonight's game is crucial if the Red Wings hope to rekindle their playoff momentum after a recent slump, dropping seven of their last nine games. Despite a poor recent record, Detroit is in contention for the wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, trailing the Penguins by one point.

Although the Toronto Maple Leafs (46-24-9, 101 points) have less games to play, they had a lopsided matchup against the New Jersey Devils in their last game. They hope to regain positive defensive consistency. Their offense was clicking, but their consistent gaffe allowed too many goals. If that happens in the playoffs, it will be a quick trip home.

Point One: What should Maple Leafs fans watch tonight?

The first thing on the minds of Maple Leafs fans tonight is Auston Matthews' total scoring. Can he continue his streak and reach 70 goals? Matthews leads the NHL with a 13-game point streak and 68 goals. Many fans who don't support either team in the NHL will probably tune in to see if Matthews can hit the magic number against the Red Wings. Surprisingly, he is a team that has yet to score a goal this season.

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Second, can the team respond after such a disappointing loss to the Devils? Maple leaves should strengthen the defense. Toronto's coaching staff and players are certainly discussing this, and they want to see the team's overall performance and focus improve, especially as the playoffs approach.

Third, the Maple Leafs' need for a strong defense will go head-to-head with the Red Wings' fight to make the playoffs. This could be a high-scoring game that boosts Matthews' 70-goal chances. Instead, it could be a tight game that doesn't benefit Matthews in scoring.

Fourth, two Maple Leafs players outside of Matthews could be interesting to look at. One is Maple Leafs captain John Tavares and the other is William Nylander. Tavares is hot. Can he keep up the scoring? On the other hand, Nylander, who started the season like gangbusters, has been a bit of a letdown. He is close to 100 points with 96 points. Can he make it before the regular season ends?

Point two: Max Domi might not play tonight

Max Domi's recent uptick in performance, including two straight assist games, has been a highlight for the Maple Leafs. He has contributed to Matthews' 70 goals. However, there are concerns that he will miss tonight's game against the Red Wings. He missed Friday's practice for undisclosed reasons and is currently considered questionable for the game.

Coach Sheldon Keefe noted that Domi could play tonight, but his status will be determined closer to game time. Domi has had a positive impact on Matthews' goal history as he has been directly involved in most of Matthews' recent goals (as well as key assists). Although Domi averaged less than 14 minutes per game (13:44), he contributed significantly to the team's production with nine goals and 38 assists (47 points) in 79 games.

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Domi plays in a rarefied world of excellence in NHL hockey and provided two more key assists on Matthews' 69th and 70th goals. If he doesn't play, getting Matthews back with his old partner Mitch Marner, who will get some key assists tonight, could be a good story. However, as noted, NHL hockey is more dynamic than perfect.

Point three: Can Ilya Samsonov bounce back from his last game?

Given Ilya Samsonov's up-and-down season, it might be unfair to question his skill. However, there is always something unexpected with the young Russian goalkeeper. After a tough game against the Devils, Samsonov will be back tonight for the Maple Leafs. In his last start, he conceded six goals on just 20 shots, and his team lost 6-5. Can he recapture his form against a Detroit team averaging 3.05 goals per game on the road?

Not long ago, this would be the type of game that would be seen with Samsonov's strong play. If he can bounce back from his last start and pitch well tonight, the playoff picture looks rosy. Samsonov's ability to rebound will be crucial to Toronto's success in the near future. The postseason can be tough for any team. Momentum is difficult to achieve and maintain.

What's next for the Maple Leafs?

As the Maple Leafs prepare to face the Red Wings tonight, one of the key players returning to the lineup is defenseman Timothy Liljegren. Liljegren has been sidelined for the last eight games due to an upper body injury. The latest word is that he is aiming to return for tonight's game.

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Coach Keefe is optimistic that Liljegren will play, which will significantly strengthen the team. Before the injury, the Swedish defender had one goal and five assists in the last seven games. If Liljegren returns, defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin will have to handle the load as a healthy scratch. Puck drop tonight is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET.