Nashville Predators right wing Luke Evangelista signs autographs during the Gold Walk before their home opener against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tenn., Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025.
Toronto Maple Leafs bounced back from a two-game skid with a thrilling 7-4 victory over the Nashville Predators on Tuesday. The win showcased balanced scoring, strong goaltending, and clutch performances from key players.
John Tavares and Oliver Ekman-Larsson led the way for Toronto, each recording a goal and two assists. Auston Matthews added two goals, including an empty-net strike, while William Nylander also found the net and contributed two assists. Additional goals came from Jake McCabe and Bobby McMann, giving the Leafs a decisive offensive edge.
Cayden Primeau, filling in while Joseph Woll tended to a family matter, made 26 saves to secure his first NHL victory since November 27, 2024. Toronto improved their record to 2-2-0 with the win.
Leafs Overcome Early Setback
Toronto came into the game following a 3-2 home loss to the Detroit Red Wings. Nashville, meanwhile, had a 4-1 victory over the Ottawa Senators in their previous matchup.
The second period began with both teams tied 2-2. Tavares then scored his first goal of the season after a slick give-and-go with Nylander and Ekman-Larsson. This goal gave the Leafs the lead and shifted momentum in their favor.
“John’s goal was a real turning point,” said Toronto head coach Craig Berube. “It came at the perfect moment and sparked our offense.”
Nashville’s Response
The Predators fought back with goals from Nick Perbix, Michael McCarron, Erik Haula, and Roman Josi. Perbix contributed a goal and an assist, while backup netminder Justus Annunen stopped 22 shots in a solid performance. Ozzy Wiesblatt and Adam Wilsby each added two assists.
Despite Nashville’s efforts, Toronto maintained control, responding quickly to key moments and capitalizing on scoring opportunities.
Key Moment of the Game
A pivotal stretch occurred when Nashville scored twice in 44 seconds to erase a 2-0 deficit. Berube immediately called a timeout, regrouping his team. Less than five minutes later, Tavares restored the lead, and McMann extended it to 4-2 by the second intermission.
Rookie Contributions Shine
Toronto’s rookie Easton Cowan also made an impact, earning his first NHL point by assisting on Matthews’ goal that extended the lead to 5-2.
“The young players are stepping up, and it’s great to see,” Berube said. “Their energy adds a lot to our game.”
Team Takeaways
Maple Leafs: Goaltending rotation continues to be a story, with Anthony Stolarz starting the first three games, including the season-opening win over Montreal. Primeau’s performance Tuesday gives Toronto additional confidence in net.
Predators: Nashville is off to a much-improved start in 2025-26 compared to last season. After beginning 0-5 in regulation in 2024-25, the team has now recorded early wins and demonstrated better consistency.
Looking Ahead
Toronto will aim to build on this momentum in their upcoming games. Meanwhile, Nashville will look to tighten defensive lapses and convert scoring chances more efficiently.
The 7-4 final score highlighted Toronto’s offensive depth and resilience. Strong performances from veterans and rookies alike ensured the Maple Leafs snapped their losing streak and regained confidence early in the season.
