In a matchup that we might see in the postseason in about a month’s time, Toronto and Florida face off to renew the rivalry that has brought out so much passion in both teams over the last number of years.

“It was a good battle,” Toronto coach Craig Berube said. “Five-on-five I thought a pretty even game. I liked our third period a lot. Difference is they score two power play goals and we didn’t capitalize on our PP.”

It was announced a few hours before puck drop that defender Chris Tanev would make his return to the lineup – a much needed boost for the backend that was struggling over the last few games.

Early on, Toronto got the jump on Florida. Two minutes into the game, John Tavares scored on a one-timer from a great pass by William Nylander to give the Leafs the icebreaker. Simon Benoit drew the secondary assist on Tavares’ goal.

About five minutes through the first, Max Domi laid a huge hit on Panthers forward Carter Verhaeghe, giving Scotiabank Arena something to cheer about. Not long after, Domi and Nate Schmidt dropped the gloves and began throwing haymakers at each other, with Domi taking control and pummeling the Panthers defender.

At 17:51 in the first, Florida was on the powerplay and Sam Bennett tied it 1-1, jamming in a loose puck from the top of the goal crease.

Niko Mikkola put the Panthers ahead 2-1 at 13:56 of the second period when he took a pass from A.J. Greer in the slot and shot over Stolarz’ blocker side. The second period was one to forget for the Maple Leafs. Sam Bennett scored again on the powerplay to give the Panthers a 3-1 lead headed into the second intermission.

Max Domi continued his strong game as he cut the lead to 3-2 within 5 minutes of the third, getting a breakaway pass from Calle Jarnkrok and shooting it past Bobrovsky’s glove.

“That’s as close to a playoff game as you’re going to get,” Domi said. “They played a real solid game, that’s a heck of a hockey team over there. They capitalized on some chances, obviously special teams was a difference, but we’re going to get some confidence out of this game.”

Toronto was unable to get the job done, but overall they played a fine game. Florida capitalized on their special teams and that seemed to be the dealbreaker in this contest. Toronto needs to be able to score on the powerplay if they want a chance to be able to beat these teams, as special teams often ends up being the decision between two strong playoff teams. Toronto next faces off against Ottawa, and then Calgary on St. Patrick’s Day.