Despite the non-existent stakes in the standings, both teams came ready to play in this one and the pace was electric in the opening minutes of the game.
One player aiding the Leafs‘ cause was Jake Gardiner, who made his long-awaited return to the lineup.
Welcome back Jake Gardiner!! #LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/qfoWM5EMXt
— Maple Leafs Hotstove (@LeafsNews) April 4, 2019
As the period progressed, neither team slowed down, trading chances left, right and center. Both good transition teams, the two sides pounced on loose pucks and used their speed to create opportunities quickly the other way.