Vegas Golden Knights vs Toronto Maple Leafs Prediction | NHL 23.01.26
Vegas Golden Knights
Toronto Maple Leafs
Game Spread
Total Points
Detailed Analysis
Vegas Golden Knights vs Toronto Maple Leafs Game Analysis | 23-01-2026 | NHL
The highly anticipated regular-season matchup on January 23, 2026, sees the Vegas Golden Knights (24-13-12) travel to Scotiabank Arena to face the Toronto Maple Leafs (24-17-9) at 7:00 PM. This contest pits two formidable franchises against each other, with significant implications for their respective conference standings as the season progresses.
Vegas Golden Knights Team Performance
The Golden Knights enter this game with a solid 24-13-12 record, showcasing their ability to secure points consistently. However, the 12 overtime losses highlight a potential area of concern regarding their ability to close out tight games and secure the extra point. Vegas boasts a deep roster with strong offensive firepower, led by their key contributors Jack Eichel and Tomas Hertl. Their goaltending tandem, featuring Adin Hill and Akira Schmid from the provided roster, offers reliability. The team’s strength lies in its balanced attack and robust defensive structure, even with Rasmus Andersson sidelined.
Vegas Golden Knights Key Players
- Points: Jack Eichel (59)
- Goals: Tomas Hertl (21)
- Assists: Jack Eichel (41)
Injury Report Vegas Golden Knights
- Rasmus Andersson (Injured reserve): No specific return date provided.
Toronto Maple Leafs Team Performance
The Maple Leafs, with a 24-17-9 record, have demonstrated flashes of brilliance but also periods of inconsistency, marked by 9 overtime losses. Their offensive prowess, particularly with Auston Matthews leading the league in goals, is undeniable. However, the team faces significant challenges heading into this game due to a lengthy injury report. The absence of key players like Chris Tanev and Dakota Joshua will test their defensive depth and overall forward group considerably. Playing at home in Scotiabank Arena will provide a crucial energy boost, but overcoming these personnel losses will be a true test of their resilience.
Toronto Maple Leafs Key Players
- Points: John Tavares (43)
- Goals: Auston Matthews (25)
- Assists: Matthew Knies (29)
Injury Report Toronto Maple Leafs
- Anthony Stolarz (Injured reserve): Stolarz (upper body) was reassigned to AHL Toronto on a conditioning assignment Tuesday.
- Dakota Mermis (Injured reserve): Mermis (lower body) was assigned to AHL Toronto on Monday for a conditioning assignment.
- Chris Tanev (Injured reserve): Tanev (groin) is expected to miss a significant amount of time.
- Dakota Joshua (Injured reserve): Joshua (upper body) is expected to miss a significant amount of time.
Prediction: Vegas Golden Knights vs Toronto Maple Leafs
Considering the significant injury challenges facing the Maple Leafs, particularly on defense with Tanev out and forward depth impacted by Joshua’s absence, the Golden Knights appear to have an edge in terms of full roster strength. However, the Maple Leafs’ home-ice advantage and the sheer offensive talent of players like Matthews should keep this contest competitive. Expect a tight game where Toronto, despite its challenges, leverages its top-tier talent to stay within striking distance. Therefore, the prediction is Toronto Maple Leafs +1.5 (Spread). Given both teams’ offensive capabilities and Toronto’s defensive personnel issues, a high-scoring affair is anticipated, leading to a total goals prediction of Over 6.5.
Last 5 Games: VGK
| Opponent | Result | Points | Goles | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| @ Boston | L 4-3 | 24-13-12 | Schmid | Eichel |
| vs Philadelphia | L 2-1 | 24-12-12 | Hill | Stone |
| vs Nashville | W 7-2 | 24-11-12 | Schmid | Theodore |
| vs Toronto | W 6-5 OT | 23-11-12 | Hill | Eichel |
| @ Los Angeles | W 3-2 OT | 22-11-12 | Schmid | Eichel |
Last 5 Games: TOR
| Opponent | Result | Points | Goles | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs Detroit | L 2-1 OT | 24-17-9 | Woll | Woll |
| vs Minnesota | L 6-3 | 24-17-8 | Woll | Matthews |
| @ Winnipeg | W 4-3 OT | 24-16-8 | Hildeby | Ekman-Larsson |
| @ Vegas | L 6-5 OT | 23-16-8 | Woll | Maccelli |
| @ Utah | L 6-1 | 23-16-7 | Hildeby | Ekman-Larsson |
Written by Matt Dorsey
Matt Dorsey turned his obsession with sports into a career five years ago, and he hasn't looked back. By combining a fan's passion with a veteran’s analytical eye, Matt provides reliable insights for the NBA, NHL, and NFL. He knows you’re looking for more than just a pick; you’re looking for a reason to trust the play. That’s why his work is always transparent, researched, and rooted in five years of proven results.
