The Leafs likely would have been fine with the extra practice time over the three-day break considering the first game of the year often leaves a lot to be desired — and did in this case — from a structure standpoint. It’s no secret the Leafs need to dictate play in the offensive zone more, with an emphasis on cleaner zone exits and an improved forechecking presence.
Babcock will ice the exact same lineup as Wednesday, which consists of the same set of lines that have been in place basically since the start of camp.