Panthers vs Maple Leafs predictions
If you’re keeping an eye on the Florida Panthers heading into this pivotal Game 5, Sam Reinhart definitely jumps off the page as someone to watch. After bagging 39 goals in the regular season, Reinhart’s knack for finishing around the net could be the difference-maker when these two squads battle at Scotiabank Arena. Let’s not forget about Aleksander Barkov, who’s quietly stacked up a hefty 51 assists this year. Barkov’s vision sets up Reinhart and the rest of the top line for prime scoring chances, and when the Panthers’ power play gets rolling, he usually has a hand in it. Expect Barkov to notch a couple of helpers, and if Florida leans into their quick-transition style, you might see Reinhart finding the twine at least once.
Now, flipping over to the Toronto Maple Leafs, it’s almost impossible not to spotlight Mitch Marner. There’s just something about the way he sees the ice—75 assists and 102 points don’t happen by accident. He orchestrates most Leafs offense, darting through defenders and somehow always managing to thread a pass right where William Nylander needs it. Nylander’s own 45 goals make him a legitimate scoring threat every time he hops over the boards. With the series now tied 2-2, big moments are made by big players, and this feels like the kind of night where Nylander could pop in a goal and Marner racks up multiple points, maybe even leading a game-changing rush in the third period.
When it comes down to who’s taking Game 5—and let’s be honest, this one’s huge—it really feels like home-ice advantage is going to tip the scales. Scotiabank Arena is going to be buzzing, and the Leafs have a knack for elevating their game in front of their crowd. If Marner and Nylander keep their hot hands, Toronto looks poised to ride that momentum and edge out the Panthers in a tight, high-energy contest. So, if you’re picking a side tonight, lean Toronto Maple Leafs—they just seem ready to make that next statement.
