The Leafs found themselves down a couple of goals in the second frame when they just hit another gear led by Auston Matthews and Tavares who scored back-to-back goals in a span of 26 seconds to close out the second period with a 3-2 lead. Unfortunately for the Leafs, back-to-back high-sticking calls led to Tampa forcing OT where Brayden Point scored the winner. The Leafs are now 0-8 in the Matthews/Marner era in games with an attempt to close out a series. This has all set up a do-or-die Game 7 on Saturday.

Tavares has a goal and four points in five playoff games this year. His marker snapped his six-game postseason goal scoring drought. 

Nylander had been playing on the third line, but he will be back alongside Tavares, who has one assist and five shots through two contests this postseason. 

Tavares will join Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner and Jack Campbell in the press box as scratches. Toronto has already clinched the second seed in the Atlantic Division. Tavares was also rested last Sunday prior to playing on Tuesday and scoring his 27th goal of the year.