While some of Ottawa’s top players featured in this game, Toronto elected for the opposite approach on the road. Aside from Ilya Samsonov in goal and a few of their established NHL forwards, Toronto had a lot of skaters destined for the Marlies taking to the ice in this game.
Not only did it not hold the Leafs back in this game, it resulted in a few standout performances from players trying to make the roster. A theme in this preseason so far has been the sense of urgency that’s been created by so many players having a real shot at a roster spot.