logo
The LeafsNation has no direct affiliation to the Toronto Maple Leafs, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, NHL, or NHLPA
John Tavares calls out Maple Leafs’ immature game management after loss to Hurricanes
alt
Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Michael Mazzei
Nov 10, 2025, 08:00 ESTUpdated: Nov 10, 2025, 00:08 EST
Comments
Toronto Maple Leafs forward John Tavares was candid in his assessment of where things went astray in Sunday’s 5-4 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes. By the time the final horn sounded, the Leafs were outshot 46-20 and all the momentum of the previous week was zapped.
“ They’re a good hockey team and they put a lot of pressure on you,” Tavares said to reporters after the game. “At times we did some really good things, earned opportunities, and we’re able to give ourselves a lead. And then our game just, for whatever reason, becomes really immature and we don’t manage the game very well.”
Tavares was almost certainly referencing the third period, as the Leafs were outshot 22-2 in that frame. It was there that the Hurricanes were able to pull ahead, while giving Toronto no room to get out of its zone. Dennis Hildeby, whom Tavares said was phenomenal, was the only thing keeping his team from being completely blown out, despite allowing five goals.
Entering the weekend on a three-game win streak and playing some of their best hockey of the season thus far, it was undoubtedly frustrating for Tavares to see things spiral in the other direction so dramatically.
“We gained some traction, and then we shoot ourselves in the foot again.  Just put ourselves in a tough spot,” Tavares said. “ There’s a ton of hockey left to be played, so we just gotta obviously pick ourselves back up, get ready for the next opportunity and build from there.”
Getting things back on track will start with improving their defensive structure on odd-man rushes, which has been a glaring issue all season long and was especially the case on Sunday.
“ You’re not gonna win consistently doing that,” Tavares said. “Like [Craig Berube] says, it’s it’s 50/50. It’s clearly an area we need to clean up. The plays off transition and opportunities like that really give their team life and momentum and really stress our goaltending, and then  having to chase the game.”

PRESENTED BY TABLE FAIR + SOCIAL

TABLE Fare + Social is a vibrant food hall in the heart of Toronto’s financial district,
offering a unique dining and social experience just steps from transit and the
arena—perfect for pregame meals before tip-off. Open weekdays from 11am to 10pm,
TABLE serves up morning treats, creative eats, and lively after-work events. With a
private terrace overlooking Toronto’s elevated park, guests enjoy stunning views
alongside year-round programming that includes food tastings, cooking classes, live
music, and pop-up events designed to spark connection and creativity.
Follow along @Tablefood hall or tablefoodhall.com
News
MORE NEWS. IN YOUR INBOX.
CLICK TO SUBSCRIBE TO OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

Breaking News