The Toronto Maple Leafs capped off a 2024 full of ups and downs on a positive note, defeating the New York Islanders 3-1 on home ice to finish the month of December with a record of 9-6-0. It was a typical mid-season snoozefest of a game where it felt like everybody in the game had one foot out the door, ready to celebrate the new year and welcome 2025.

The Maple Leafs were banged up at certain points during the game, with Chris Tanev leaving temporarily after taking a deflected shot square to the middle of the face, but like the warrior he’s proven to be, he returned to the game before the period ended. Jake McCabe also blocked a couple of shots that left him slow to get up, and the hearts of fans everywhere dropped as Joseph Woll was seen flexing his legs after a sprawling save. All three players finished the game, so deep breath for now.

Matthew Knies went into Tuesday afternoon’s game with some questions and concerns about his recent slump, limited to only one secondary assist in his last eight games. Although the slump quietly extended to nine games, Knies did have a goal disallowed early in the game, and one that showed positive signs in where his game is at even if it didn’t count on the scoresheet.

Also deserving of some credit is the fourth line, who came out flying the shift after the Islanders tied the game at one and took 16 seconds to restore the Leafs’ lead, thanks to a slick little move and shot from Steven Lorentz.

One area that will certainly require some improvement in the new year is the power play. They did score a power play goal, but it came in the final seconds of the game on a very questionable decision by Islanders head coach Patrick Roy to pull the goalie on a defensive zone draw while shorthanded. This left them with five skaters on the ice and left the Maple Leafs with an offensive zone faceoff and a wide open net to slam the door shut for the Islanders. They’ll want to do better than going 0-for-2 on the two actual power plays against the team with the league’s worst penalty kill, and it’s sure to be a talking point in the new year.

The Maple Leafs will enter 2025 first place in the Atlantic Division. Happy new year, folks.

Alright, hockey fans, this isn’t just a trip—it’s the Nation Vacation, and we’re heading to the Music City from March 20th to 23rd! Get ready to watch Toronto take on Nashville in their own barn, soak up the honky-tonk vibes, and make unforgettable memories with the Nation crew. Whether you’re all in for a flight package or prefer a non-flight option, we’ve got you covered. Just don’t wait—spots are limited, and this trip is going to be electric. Book your spot NOW at nationgear.ca. Let’s go, Toronto! Nashville is calling!