Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Detroit Red Wings: Preview, Predictions and Picks for October 3, 2024

Published on:
Oct 3, 2024 9:11 AM
On Thursday, October 3, 2024, the Toronto Maple Leafs hit the road to face off against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena, looking to build on their 2-1-1 start to the season. The Red Wings, sitting at 3-1-1, aim to protect their home ice, where they've posted a 1-1-0 record so far. Expect a competitive matchup as these Original Six rivals clash at 7:00 PM.
Written by
Optimal Staff
Toronto Maple Leafs
Detroit Red Wings

Maple Leafs vs Red Wings statistics

Stat Maple Leafs Red Wings
Goals For per Game 2.50 2.40
Goals Against per Game 2.50 2.40
Shots per Game 28.3 24.6
Shots Against per Game 26.3 31.8
Power Play Goals 3 3
Power Play Goals Against 0 2
Short Handed Goals 0 1
Short Handed Goals Against 0 0
Penalty Minutes 63 38
Power Play Percentage 21.4 14.3
Penalty Kill Percentage 100.0 88.9

Detroit Red Wings recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
10/1/24 @ Pittsburgh Penguins W 2-1
9/30/24 @ Buffalo Sabres L 4-3 OT
9/30/24 vs Pittsburgh Penguins L 5-1
9/27/24 vs Chicago Blackhawks W 2-0
9/25/24 @ Chicago Blackhawks W 4-2

Toronto Maple Leafs recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/28/24 @ Montreal Canadiens W 2-1
9/26/24 vs Montreal Canadiens W 2-1
9/24/24 @ Ottawa Senators L 2-1
9/22/24 vs Ottawa Senators L 6-5 OT
5/4/24 @ Boston Bruins L 2-1 OT

Maple Leafs vs Red Wings predictions

The Toronto Maple Leafs are walking into the rink with some strong performances under their belt, despite missing their star center John Tavares, who is out with an injury. While the Leafs will feel Tavares' absence, the spotlight turns to other players to step up. Nicholas Robertson is one player who's been clutch, already netting three goals this season. With Tavares sidelined, expect Robertson to see more ice time and potentially increase his goal tally. Also, with some reshuffling likely in the lineups, others might find themselves with opportunities to step into larger roles and make an impact.

Shifting our focus to the Detroit Red Wings, their roster also boasts players who have kicked off the season with strong performances. Lucas Raymond is leading the charge for the Wings, having already bagged two goals. Given his current form, it wouldn't be surprising to see him add more to his tally during the game. Andrew Copp, another key player, with two assists so far, will likely continue playing a crucial role in setting up scoring chances. The Red Wings have shown they can be potent on the offense when these players find their rhythm, making them ones to watch in the upcoming matchup.

As for predictions, this game promises to be a tight contest, considering how both teams have been performing. However, the Red Wings, playing in front of their home crowd at Little Caesars Arena, might have a slight edge. Home advantage can be a significant morale booster and could be the difference-maker in a game this close. Plus, with Raymond in fine form, Detroit might just have enough firepower to edge out the Leafs, especially if Toronto misses Tavares' leadership and playmaking abilities on the ice. It's bound to be an exciting clash, but my bet's on the Red Wings taking this one.

Toronto Maple Leafs injuries

  • Connor Dewar (C): Out
  • Jani Hakanpaa (D): Out
  • Calle Jarnkrok (C): Day-To-Day
  • Alex Steeves (RW): Day-To-Day
  • John Tavares (C): Out

Maple Leafs vs Red Wings game info

Venue Little Caesars Arena
Location Detroit, MI
Puck drop Thu 7:00 PM

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Detroit Red Wings Betting Odds

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