Maple Leafs Triumph Over Dallas Stars with Balanced Offense and Stellar Goaltending
DALLAS – The Toronto Maple Leafs showcased their depth and resilience on Wednesday night, claiming a 5-3 victory over the Dallas Stars at the American Airlines Center. With strong performances from key players and standout goaltending, the Leafs improved their record to 17-13-2 in their 32nd game of the season.
Offensive Sparks Lead the Way
William Nylander continued his stellar season, netting two goals, including an empty-netter late in the third period to seal the win. Nylander, now with 20 goals on the season, was a force on the ice alongside teammates Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner, who combined for a critical second-period goal.
Nick Robertson also stood out with a goal and an assist, earning him second-star honors. Robertson’s energy provided a much-needed boost to the Leafs’ second line, helping secure Toronto’s dominance in the middle frame with three goals. Bobby McMann contributed his seventh goal of the season, showcasing the team’s scoring depth.
Max Domi added his second goal of the season early in the first period, tying the game just seconds after the Stars’ Sam Steel opened the scoring.
LEAFS WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWIN!@LGCanada | #LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/74YYYsP2ht
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) December 19, 2024
Goaltender Joseph Woll Shines
Between the pipes, Joseph Woll delivered a stellar performance, stopping 36 of 39 shots to secure the victory. Woll’s composure under pressure earned him first-star honors and underscored his growing role as a reliable presence for the Leafs.
The Dallas Stars opened the scoring with Steel’s fourth goal of the season just over five minutes into the first period, but Woll stood tall, keeping the Leafs in contention throughout the game.
Special Teams and Defensive Discipline
Despite being penalized four times, the Maple Leafs’ penalty-killing unit held strong, preventing the Stars from capitalizing on any of their power-play opportunities. Toronto’s disciplined 5-on-5 play was key to their success, as all five of their goals came at even strength.
Dallas goaltenders Casey DeSmith and Jake Oettinger shared time in the crease, with Oettinger taking the loss after allowing four goals on 12 shots.
Looking Ahead
The win marks a critical step forward for the Maple Leafs as they aim to solidify their position in the Atlantic Division standings. They will continue their road trip with a game against the Buffalo Sabres on Friday, December 20.
