Jake Muzzin scores first goal as Maple Leaf, adds two assists and crushing hit

Rudi Schuller

Jake Muzzin scores first goal as Maple Leaf, adds two assists and crushing hit image

It hasn't taken long for Jake Muzzin to endear himself to Toronto Maple Leafs fans.

The hard-hitting defenceman only joined the Leafs in a trade last week, but Muzzin is already a favourite of the Scotiabank Arena faithful. Paired with Morgan Rielly, Muzzin has added a facet of physicality to Toronto's defensive corps and on Monday he showed his full skill set in a 6-1 win over the visiting Anaheim Ducks.

First, Muzzin registered his initial point as a member of the Leafs at the 13:40 mark of the second period with an assist on Andreas Johnsson's 11th goal of the season.

In the later stages of the second period, Muzzin laid a crushing hit on Ducks star Corey Perry that got the home crowd on its feet.

More importantly, the hit also riled up the Ducks, with Anaheim's Nick Ritchie targeting Muzzin with a cross-check that led to a Toronto power play in the final minute of the middle frame. Seconds after Ritchie entered the penalty box, Muzzin unleashed a rocket for his first goal in Toronto colours.

Muzzin added another assist in the third period on a Connor Brown tally.

It was only the third game for Muzzin in a Leafs' jersey, but he's already made a big impression on his new team.

Rudi Schuller