[ForeverFlameFan]

Probably the biggest game of the playoffs. Can certainly change the trajectory of one that has had trouble making to the latter rounds of the playoffs.

If the Leafs lose, you have to think they make some drastic changes with the core. Do they re-sign Tavares? Or do they go after Bennett instead for the middle 6 C spot? Do they let Marner walk and prioritize a long term contract with Knies? Or do they let Treliving do the RFA-bridge special? Use prospects/picks to bolster the lineup more at the draft? Berube can only do so much with the same core. Something's got to give.

As for the Panthers, I posted in the speculation thread, but they've also got some thinking to do if they lose in 7 games. A very successful 3 seasons of playoffs, 2 SCFs and potentially another if they do win tonight and against the Canes in R3. Regardless of the outcome, they've got a very successful core intact and will try to keep as many as they can. They will for sure be losing one of Ekblad or Bennett to UFA, just depends who is willing to take the better discount and values success over money.