The Toronto Maple Leafs carry a wave of positive momentum into a critical road test on Thursday night, facing the Philadelphia Flyers at the Wells Fargo Center. The team's recent strong form at home now meets the challenge of their most persistent weakness: performance away from Scotiabank Arena.
Road Struggles Meet Hot Streak
Despite an impressive 5-0-2 record in their last seven games, the Leafs' season has been hampered by dismal results on the road. With only five wins and 12 points earned away from home (5-10-2), Toronto holds the unfortunate distinction of the fewest road points in the entire National Hockey League.
This stretch becomes crucial as five of their next six contests are on opposing ice. The push begins in Philadelphia, where the Leafs previously secured a 5-2 victory on November 1. Currently sitting just two points out of an Eastern Conference wild-card spot, stringing together road wins is now imperative for their playoff aspirations.
An Emotional Homecoming for Laughton
Thursday's game holds special significance for forward Scott Laughton. Acquired from the Flyers last March, this will be his first game in Philadelphia as a visiting player. He was sidelined with a foot injury for the Leafs' previous visit in November.
"This feels more like it," Laughton told reporters. "This one was circled on the calendar... I have some people coming to the game from some of the charities I worked with, and have some family here in town." He acknowledged the importance of the matchup for both teams in the tight playoff race.
Goaltending Matchup and Injury Updates
In net, the Leafs will turn to Dennis Hildeby for his first start since January 1. In that relief appearance against Winnipeg, Hildeby helped backstop the team to a 6-5 comeback win. The Flyers will counter with Dan Vladar, who is 5-1-0 in his last six starts but holds an 0-2-3 career record against Toronto.
On the injury front, star winger William Nylander will miss his sixth consecutive game with a lower-body injury. However, there is optimism for a near-term return. Coach Craig Berube stated Nylander is "doing good" and is a possibility to play on Saturday when the Leafs host the Vancouver Canucks.
Toronto's offense will continue to lean on captain Auston Matthews, who has been on a tear with seven goals and 11 points in his last five games. The team's projected lineup reflects their current personnel, aiming to build on their recent success and finally translate it to road victories.
