With the series tied 2-2 in a pivotal game 5 of the best of 7 series the Bolts saw the lead they had held for 2 periods slip away as Toronto rallied with 3 goals in the 3rd period to put the game away and take a commanding 3-2 series lead over the defending Stanley Cup champions.
Post-game Jon Cooper reflected on the loss saying:
Jon Cooper: "We're not really making them earn it. We're kind of giving it to them."� James Mirtle (@mirtle) May 11, 2022
Again repeating Stanley Cup victories affords a coach and team respect but a single-score game that saw 9 different players on the Leafs contribute points is hardly giving the game away.
The Tampa/Toronto series has been one of the most exciting in the first round of the NHL playoffs and it will be interesting to see how the Bolts respond facing elimination, and how TO responds having their effort discredited.
POLL | ||
Which series has been the most exciting? | ||
Tampa/Toronto | 80 | 60.6 % |
Capitals/Panthers | 23 | 17.4 % |
Bruins/Hurricanes | 12 | 9.1 % |
Stars/Flames | 17 | 12.9 % |
List of polls |