Carolina at Toronto

Carolina is tied with Buffalo for the most points in the Eastern Conference with 92. That is 22 more points than Toronto has. The disappointing Maple Leafs have the second-fewest points in the Eastern Conference. This is the start of a three-game road trip for the Hurricanes with the Penguins and Canadiens on deck. So Carolina cannot afford to take the Maple Leafs lightly, despite Toronto going 2-10 in their last 12 games. Toronto ranks 29th defensively, allowing 3.4 goals per game, and gives up the most shots on goal. The Maple Leafs' mediocre offense isn't strong enough to make up for their poor defense, and they no longer have Auston Matthews. Toronto's team captain and goals leader is out for the season with a knee injury. Carolina has scored four or more goals in six of its last eight games. The well-rounded Hurricanes rank fifth in scoring and are ninth defensively. Look for them to take care of business here. Take the Hurricanes.