Babcock makes a bold choice in goal in critical game this evening.

The Toronto Maple Leafs can secure a playoff spot tonight against the Washington Capitals, so there's no doubt this is one of their most important games of the season.

That being said, head coach Mike Babcock has made a bold move and will be starting veteran backup goaltender Curtis McElhinney against one of the National Hockey League's best offensive units.

McElhinney has been solid when called upon this season and he recently picked up a big win for the Maple Leafs when they faced off against the Florida Panthers last. He comes into tonight's game with a .911 save percentage and a 2.68 goals against average over his 11 appearances with Toronto this season.

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This will arguably be his toughest test of the season, but it appears his head coach has faith in him.