McMann Shines in Maple Leafs' 2-1 Victory Over Islanders with a Last-Minute Goal
In an exciting NHL showdown on January 2, 2025, Bobby McMann proved to be the hero for the Toronto Maple Leafs, leading them to a 2-1 victory over the New York Islanders. McMann scored both goals for the Leafs, including a dramatic game-winner, sealing the team’s win on the road at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York.
McMann's first goal came early in the game, but it was his second, a crucial late-game strike, that really made the difference. With the game tied at 1-1 in the final minutes of play, McMann capitalized on a perfect assist from his line-mates, Max Domi and Nick Robertson, to score his 12th goal of the season. It was a display of poise under pressure, as McMann, who registered six shots in total, proved once again that he is becoming a key contributor for the Leafs.
The dynamic trio of McMann, Domi, and Robertson had a strong outing, consistently putting pressure on the Islanders' defense throughout the night. While McMann was the star, both Domi and Robertson earned assists, with defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson also adding a helper on the game-winning play.
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In net, Toronto’s Joseph Woll was stellar, making 32 saves on 33 shots. Woll’s performance was key in securing his third consecutive win as the Leafs’ starting goalie. He was sharp in the face of constant pressure from the Islanders, especially in the third period, where he stood tall against multiple scoring chances.
For the Islanders, Scott Mayfield scored their lone goal, but it wasn't enough to overcome Toronto's late-game heroics. The Islanders have now lost three straight games, including two losses to the Maple Leafs in just three days.
Toronto played without captain Auston Matthews, who remains sidelined due to an undisclosed injury that has lingered throughout the season. Matthews' absence continues to be a concern for the Leafs, but they managed to pull off the win despite his absence.
This game also marked a special return for Toronto assistant coach Lane Lambert, who made his first appearance back at UBS Arena since being fired by the Islanders in January 2024. Lambert had worked with the Islanders since 2018 before joining the Maple Leafs as an associate coach in the summer of 2024.
Looking ahead, the Maple Leafs will return home to host the Boston Bruins on January 6, kicking off a two-game homestand. The victory against the Islanders was an important one for Toronto, as they continue to build momentum heading into the second half of the season.
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