Nov 20, 2024; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nikita Grebenkin (71) skates against the Vegas Golden Knights during the second period at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

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NHL Daily Takeaways (21/11/2024) : Maple Leafs blank Vegas, Sebastian Aho propels Canes’ Victory

Fraser Minten first goal, Patrik Laine nearing return and Sabres defensive toughness

Let’s dive into the important NHL highlights of the day and the events that are influencing the hockey scene.

Maple Leafs’ Defensive Mastery Secures Shutout Against Golden Knights

The Toronto Maple Leafs delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights, showcasing their defensive prowess.

Despite being deprived of a number of players and managers, the Maple Leafs found the resources they needed to prevail. In particular, they relied on their young guard, notably Fraser Minten.

Minten scored his first NHL goal of his career against the 2023 Stanley Cup Champions.

First NHL goal for Fraser Minten!! 💪

Congrats, Fraser!

📺: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+ ➡️ https://t.co/4KjbdjVctF pic.twitter.com/3KMAeYUzZP
— NHL (@NHL) November 21, 2024

Goaltender Joseph Woll was instrumental, recording a shutout that highlighted the team’s cohesive defensive strategy.

This win not only bolstered Toronto’s confidence but also underscored their potential as a formidable contender in the league.

Hurricanes Extend Dominance with Convincing Win Over Flyers

The Carolina Hurricanes continued their impressive run by defeating the Philadelphia Flyers 4-1. Key contributions came from Sebastian Aho and Jalen Chatfield, each tallying a goal and an assist.

This victory marked the Hurricanes’ 12th win in their last 14 games, solidifying their position as one of the league’s most consistent and dominant teams.

Edmonton Oilers Send Josh Brown Back To AHL

The Edmonton Oilers have reassigned defenseman Josh Brown to the Bakersfield Condors of the AHL, according to Puck Pedia. This move follows the team’s waiver claim of forward Kasperi Kapanen, which required Brown’s demotion to remain salary cap-compliant. Edmonton now has $304K in projected cap space, potentially increasing to $1.4MM by the NHL trade deadline, barring further roster changes.

Brown was called up recently due to Darnell Nurse’s injury and played in two games, logging 11:29 of average ice time with 7 penalty minutes, three hits, four blocked shots, and a fight against Ottawa’s Zack MacEwen.

Sep 23, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine (92) warms up before a game against the Philadelphia Flyers at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Patrik Laine Nearing Return for Montreal Canadiens

The Montreal Canadiens may soon welcome Patrik Laine back, as the forward practiced with the team for the first time since suffering a left knee sprain. Laine, wearing a non-contact jersey, joined the squad for initial drills during Wednesday’s practice but left after 15 minutes.

Defenseman David Savard noted the team’s effort to keep Laine involved during his recovery, though road trips made it challenging. “It’s great to see him and know he’s close to returning,” Savard said.

Laine sustained the injury in a collision with Cedric Pare during a preseason game on September 28. After opting against surgery, he began skating alone on November 6. The Canadiens initially announced he’d be sidelined for 2-3 months, targeting a return in December.

Kraken’s Defensive Excellence Shuts Out Predators

The Seattle Kraken demonstrated defensive excellence in a 3-0 shutout against the Nashville Predators. Goaltender Joey Daccord was stellar between the pipes, contributing significantly to the team’s defensive success.

This victory capped off a successful homestand for Seattle, finishing with a 5-1-0 record.

Sabres Edge Kings in Defensive Battle

In a tightly contested game, the Buffalo Sabres edged the Los Angeles Kings 1-0. Jason Zucker scored the lone goal, while goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen secured the shutout in his return from injury.

This win emphasized Buffalo’s defensive resilience and ability to secure narrow victories, showcasing their potential to compete in low-scoring, tightly fought contests

Photo Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Fraser Minten

NHL Daily Takeaways

Patrick Laine

Toronto Maple Leafs

Charles Taudin

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Global Editorial Chief of The Playoffs, I created The Free Agent, which became The Playoffs FR, in 2020 during the pandemic. A longtime fan of the four major American sports, I now oversee the editorial strategy and social media for all versions of The Playoffs. I still occasionally write about sports I’m particularly passionate about, such as the NFL or MLB. If there’s one thing you should remember: Eli Manning is the true GOAT for beating Tom Brady twice.