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Maple Leafs Drop Fifth in Six With 5-1 Loss to Stars as Frustration Mounts

A strong five-on-five showing again went unrewarded because a stagnant power play kept Toronto from capitalizing.

Overview

  • Dallas won 5-1 despite Toronto controlling high-danger chances and outshooting the Stars 28-22, with Jake Oettinger denying breakaways by Auston Matthews and William Nylander.
  • The Maple Leafs went scoreless on four power plays, extending a man-advantage drought that continues to undercut otherwise solid five-on-five metrics.
  • Captain Auston Matthews called the results "frustrating," noting improved play in recent games without the reward of wins.
  • Local analysis renewed speculation about Craig Berube’s job security following the road trip, while his decision to scratch rookie Easton Cowan for a "reset" drew criticism.
  • Scott Laughton scored Toronto’s lone goal, the team has dropped five of six, and the Leafs return home to face the Penguins before a short holiday break.