What Happened
Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Nick Blankenburg scored his first goal of the season in Saturday's 6-3 win over the Colorado Avalanche in Denver. The former Avalanche blueliner scored 38 seconds into his first shift with a top-shelf shot, assisted by William Nylander. It was the first and only goal by a Toronto defenceman this season. Blankenburg entered the lineup partly because of Denver's high altitude and the decision to dress a seventh defenceman.
Key Details
- Blankenburg scored 38 seconds into his first shift.
- The goal was assisted by William Nylander.
- It was Toronto's first goal by a defenceman this season.
- Blankenburg previously played for the Avalanche.
- Toronto won 6-3 in Denver on Saturday.
What It Means
Blankenburg is a depth defenceman who got into the lineup partly because of the altitude and a seventh-defenceman decision. His goal gave Toronto an early lift and earned praise from captain Auston Matthews, who highlighted his daily work ethic and popularity in the room. The goal stands as the only one by a Maple Leafs blueliner this season.