The T-Vo logbook continues to rack up amazing performances since the start of 2010.
Saturday was one of the Big Ones, as Florida goaltender Tomas Vokoun stopped all 39 shots directed his way, earning him his second shutout in four games. He’s allowed 16 goals (3 SO) in 11 matches since the start of the new year.
The Panthers finally came out on the surface side of a game with the Leafs, having dropped the past two.
The loss of Nathan Horton was evident as the night began, as yet another feeling-out process was underway for a quickly-reconstructed four forward lines struggling to establish a comfort zone.
The second period produced at least the appearance of cohesion, as the Cats lost in SOG (9-14) but developed a strong attack-first style, keeping the Leafs on their heels and allowing for Cory Stillman to convert on the power play at 4:36, with assists from Dennis Seidenberg and Stephen Weiss.
Florida continued the effort into the third, expanding on the lead with Kenndal McArdle (who returned to the lineup this very night) and his first NHL goal, assisted by Gregory Campbell and Michael Frolik.
Special mention goes to the Cats’ third line, composed (at the start) of Campbell, Kamil Kreps, and Dominic Moore, who provided a refreshing amount of in-your-face energy.
Toronto’s Phil Kessel led the game with 5 SOG, while Leafs netminder Jonas Gustavsson stopped 20 of 22 shots.