Tavares hits 30 goals for 8th time as Leafs fall to Kings in OT

Matthew Knies delivers best game since Olympic break, but Toronto loses 7-6 thriller

Apr. 5, 2026 at 10:12am

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The Toronto Maple Leafs lost a high-scoring 7-6 overtime thriller to the Los Angeles Kings, but there were still some positives to take away. John Tavares reached the 30-goal mark for the eighth time in his career, while Matthew Knies scored twice and added an assist in his best game since the Olympic break.

Why it matters

The Leafs' loss keeps them stuck in the middle of the standings, unable to improve their draft position. However, the strong performances from Tavares and Knies provide hope for the team's future, even as they miss the playoffs.

The details

Tavares scored his 30th goal of the season on a loose puck in front of the net, continuing his excellent campaign. Knies was the Leafs' best player on the night, scoring twice, including the game-tying goal late in the third period to force overtime. Steven Lorentz, Easton Cowan, and Nick Robertson also scored for Toronto. Despite the loss, the Leafs can take positives from the play of their top players.

  • Tavares scored his 30th goal of the season in the second period.
  • Knies scored the game-tying goal late in the third period to force overtime.

The players

John Tavares

The Maple Leafs' captain, who reached the 30-goal mark for the eighth time in his career.

Matthew Knies

The Leafs' young forward, who scored two goals and added an assist in his best game since the Olympic break.

Anze Kopitar

The veteran Los Angeles Kings captain, who is set to retire at the end of the season.

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What they’re saying

“What's amazing about this league is playing against the world's best, and he's been one of those for a long time.”

— John Tavares

The takeaway

Despite the loss, the Leafs can take positives from the strong individual performances of Tavares and Knies, who continue to show their value to the team. However, the defeat keeps Toronto stuck in the middle of the standings, unable to improve their draft position for the upcoming offseason.