On October 21, 2024, the Tampa Bay Lightning and Toronto Maple Leafs are set to engage in what promises to be a thrilling game between two fierce rivals in the Atlantic Division. Tampa Bay, with a 3-1-0 record this season, is fresh from a nail-biting 5-4 defeat to Ottawa. Their potent attack, averaging four goals per game, is a force to be reckoned with, but their defense could use some tightening. They’ve been giving up 2.5 goals and their special teams effectiveness rating has room for improvement.
On the flip side, Toronto, now at 3-2-0 after a disappointing 4-1 loss to the Rangers, is determined to bounce back. The Maple Leafs’ offence, averaging three goals per game, has shown flashes of brilliance, but their defense has been a standout, conceding only 2.2 goals a contest. Both teams’ power play conversion rates of 12.5% indicate a shared struggle in converting man advantages.
The Lightning have a historical edge, having won four of the previous 10 matches, including the last two games against Toronto. This suggests that they have had the upper hand in recent confrontations. However, playing at home could give Toronto a boost as they seek to recover from their recent setback.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are the favorite to win because of these aspects and their home-field advantage.