Toronto will be hosting the Texas Stars in a game 7 finale, on Thursday night. While the Marlies had a chance to close out the series in game 6, it appears the Stars will not go without a fight.

Game 6 was a strange one, as the Marlies came flying out of the gate with a 16-4 shot advantage after the first, but the score remained at zeros. The second period didn’t go nearly as well, and although a few are to blame, I think the biggest culprits here are Marincin and Sparks. They probably had one of their worst games of the season and it came at the wrong time. Still, I think the Marlies played well overall and I attribute some of this loss to bad luck/bad bounces – but you have to take responsibility for the losses as well.

At any rate, this just means we can win it on home ice! Now I’ve seen a lot of chatter about the goaltending situation. Sparks poor series has left some doubt in people’s minds, and they are the ones calling for Pickard. This is not the way to go folks. We are talking about the leagues best goaltender this season. Do you really want to leave him on the bench in a game 7 Calder Cup deciding game? Not a chance that is happening. Stick with your guy.

How high is Garret Sparks’ confidence level that he and the #Marlies can bounce back and win Game 7? “Extremely high.” Sparks said he’ll draw on experience of five years in the AHL, 17 NHL games and entire breadth of career to now in Thursday’s decisive contest. — Kristen Shilton (@kristen_shilton) June 13, 2018

Calle Rosen continues to impress every game, proving he deserves another shot with the Leafs. He looked fantastic in game 6, and he’s one of the guys I expect to take the momentum into the next game. But will he be the game 7 hero? I wouldn’t bet on it as the defense rarely get the glory. So who will it be?

I’m looking at you Andreas Johnsson. He’s been the Marlies best player this playoffs with a commanding 21 points in only 15 games. But he hasn’t shown his true dominance that he can be capable yet this series. I’m expecting him to the lead the way if the Toronto is going to win this one (and I do think they are the better team).

Will Toronto blow this opportunity at a championship or is hockey in this city cursed? Do you agree that Sparks should stay in net for game 7 despite his poor performance? Who’s your pick for the game 7 hero?