Woll solid, Giordano scores in return as Maple Leafs top Capitals

Mark Giordano, uncertain of his return to the NHL stage after grappling with a prolonged injury and personal loss, emerged triumphant as he honored his late father with an emotional goal. Despite being sidelined for 12 games due to a concussion, the 40-year-old defenseman seized the opportunity to shine for the injury-plagued Toronto Maple Leafs in their commanding 5-1 victory over the Washington Capitals.

Reflecting on the challenges he faced, Giordano, a native of Toronto, candidly shared, “It’s been tough.” His father, Paul, passed away suddenly on February 16, adding another layer of difficulty to an already trying season. Giordano missed five games following his father’s demise before being sidelined again with a concussion on February 29. Amidst a crowded defensive lineup following the trade deadline, Giordano found himself pushed down the depth chart. However, when the Leafs found themselves short-handed on defense, he seized the moment, scoring the opening goal with a poignant gesture skyward in honor of his late father.

“It’s been tough,” Giordano acknowledged, “but been having a lot of fun being at the rink around the guys.”

Tyler Bertuzzi continued his impressive scoring streak with two goals, bringing his tally to six in the last seven games, while Conner Dewar and Bobby McMann added to Toronto’s offensive onslaught. Goaltender Joseph Woll redeemed himself with a solid performance, making 24 saves and bouncing back from recent struggles.

Washington’s Nic Dowd managed to find the back of the net for the Capitals’ lone goal, but it was not enough to overcome Toronto’s dominance. Despite opportunities, Washington’s efforts fell short, leaving defenseman John Carlson to lament, “There were plays to be made. We just didn’t make them.”

The victory solidified Toronto’s position in the standings, sitting four points ahead of Tampa Bay for third in the Atlantic Division. Meanwhile, Washington maintained its grip on the Eastern Conference’s second wild-card spot, holding a two-point lead over Detroit with a game in hand.

Giordano’s heartfelt goal served as a reminder of the resilience and camaraderie within the Leafs organization. Despite facing adversity, the team rallied around each other, showcasing the bond that extends beyond the ice.

As the game concluded, Giordano reflected on the support he received, stating, “You always feel better being around the guys.” The overwhelming display of care and solidarity underscored the significance of unity in times of hardship.

In a poignant twist, Washington’s rookie head coach Spencer Carbery and defenseman Rasmus Sandin returned to Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena, marking their first visit since departing the Leafs organization. Carbery, expressing gratitude for his time with the Leafs, acknowledged the pressure that comes with the territory, emphasizing the importance of the work done within the organization.

Giordano’s triumphant return and poignant goal will undoubtedly be etched in the memories of fans and teammates alike, serving as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the human endeavor both on and off the ice.