Red Wings vs. Maple Leafs: What a Night!
Okay, so the 2024-25 NHL regular season wrapped up with a crazy overtime game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Detroit Red Wings. It ended 4-3, a real nail-biter that showed us a lot about both teams—the good, the bad, and the ugly.
For the Leafs, it was a pretty meaningless game, playoff spot already secured. But for the Red Wings? A tough ending to a season that just didn't quite hit the mark.
Toronto's Wild Comeback
The Leafs were down 3-1 going into the third. Honestly, who saw that coming? Then, things got wild. Philippe Myers scored a gorgeous goal – the kind that makes you jump out of your seat. Chris Tanev tied it up late, and then…Scott Laughton with the overtime winner! Talk about a dramatic comeback!
Coach Craig Berube was buzzing afterwards. He praised the team's grit and specifically called out Laughton's improved play, saying he's really settling in nicely. Winning 13 of their last 16 games and clinching the division title? That's a pretty sweet way to head into the playoffs.
Detroit's Disappointment
On the other side of the ice, it was a different story. The Red Wings started strong, with goals from Austin Watson, Justin Holl, and Alex DeBrincat. They looked good early on. But then...you know how sometimes things just spiral? They couldn't hold onto the lead in the third, and the loss felt like a real kick in the gut.
Red Wings fans were understandably frustrated on social media. Captain Dylan Larkin didn't shy away from the team's shortcomings. He talked about missed opportunities and a real lack of composure down the stretch. Coach Todd McLellan was even more blunt, calling their game management in the third "horrendous."
Leafs Look to the Future
Beyond the game itself, the Leafs made a big move, signing 20-year-old prospect Borya Valis to a three-year entry-level contract. GM Brad Treliving was excited about Valis's two-way game, his size – a real presence on the ice – and his skating ability. He said this signing addresses a need for a big, right-shot forward in their system. Valis will likely join the Toronto Marlies in the AHL once his WHL season ends.
Playoffs and Beyond
So, where do we stand? The Leafs are heading into the playoffs with serious momentum. That comeback against the Wings? It showed they've got guts and can handle the pressure. Their first-round matchup against the Ottawa Senators is going to be a barn burner. Meanwhile, the Red Wings have a long offseason ahead to reflect, regroup and figure out how to make next season better.
