On Sunday, Leafs captain Auston Matthews spoke to the media ahead of Game 1 and insisted that this group is different and ready to go against the Panthers. “We’re a prepared group, we’re ready to go,” Matthews said. “We know the challenge that lies ahead, and it's just taking it one step at a time.”

As the Toronto Maple Leafs open their second-round series against the Florida Panthers, their top line of Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and Matthew Knies could be the possible turning point.

Defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers and Toronto Maple Leafs meet in what should become a classic second-round playoff series.