3 major takeaways from Toronto Maple Leafs' 2-1 win in preseason game vs Montreal Canadiens

The Toronto Maple Leafs edged division rival Montreal Canadiens 2-1 on Thursday night at the Scotiabank Arena. John Tavares and Nick Robertson got the goals for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Meanwhile, Christian Dvorak scored for the Habs.

The Leafs dominated most of the game, outshooting the Canadiens 37-17. The Leafs' power play also went 1-for-3, with Tavares getting the power play tally in the first period.

Jakub Dobes went the distance for Montreal, with an impressive outing in which he stopped 32 of the 34 shots he faced.

So, let’s take a closer look at the three major takeaways from the Toronto Maple Leafs' win over the Montreal Canadiens in their preseason tilt on Thursday night.

3 major takeaways from Toronto Maple Leafs' preseason win Montreal Canadiens

#3. The Leafs played a much more structured game

The effort shown by the Toronto Maple Leafs is much more consistent with the type of hockey coach Craig Berube preaches. The Leafs were far more structured, avoided costly turnovers, and, most importantly, eliminated the mental lapses that have caused the team to blow leads in the past.

Also, the Leafs were able to lock the game down in the third period. The Leafs entered the final frame with a 2-1 lead. But instead of collapsing as has been the case in other situations, the Maple Leafs were able to hold on for the win.

#2. Matt Murray showed encouraging signs

Matt Murray, who missed all of last season due to a hip injury and surgery, looked solid in his second preseason appearance. There was a great deal of speculation entering training camp regarding Murray’s ability to play effectively.

Thus far, Murray has proven he could still be an effective NHL goaltender, essentially showing no signs of the injury that sidelined him last season.

If he continues on this path, Murray could see some action at the NHL level this season. Of course, it will be difficult for Murray to leapfrog Joseph Woll or Anthony Stolarz. Nevertheless, his performance on Thursday night was another encouraging sign for Murray.

#1. William Nylander left the game with an undisclosed injury

William Nylander left the game in the second period following an awkward collision. In the play, he appeared to hit his head, prompting the Maple Leafs to pull him from the game for precautionary reasons.

While the potential injury doesn’t look serious, there is no word on its nature. The Leafs hope that pulling Nyander was necessary only as a precaution and nothing more.

It’s worth pointing out that losing Nylander could significantly impact the Leafs' top-six forward group as captain Auston Matthews is also sidelined with an upper-body injury.