3 Things Toronto Maple Leafs Fans Can Do to Kill Time During NHL Lockout

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All NHL fans are growing more frustrated as the lockout continues. After canceling the first two regular-season games, many fans fear the cancellation of more. 

In the meantime, there are a few things that hockey fans can do to pass the time.

These tips will not end the lockout, but they might help ease the pain from uncertainty that fans are dealing with.

Focus on the Toronto Marlies

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The Toronto Marlies are the Maple Leafs’ affiliate team in the American Hockey League. With the NHL lockout end nowhere in sight, many fans can focus their attention on the Marlies. 

The Marlies play in Toronto, making it convenient for Leafs fans to go to home games. 

The Marlies played their first preseason game on Saturday night against their rival from Ontario, the Hamilton Bulldogs. The Marlies defeated the Bulldogs in a 3-1 victory. The game was completely sold out for the rivalry match. 

The three scorers for the Marlies were Brad Ross, Greg Scott and Greg McKegg. 

Going to a game to cheer on the Marlies can be a great way for Leafs fans to watch players that have the potential to make the Leafs roster in the future. 

The Marlies are expected to have another great season. Last year, at the end of the regular season, they were ranked No. 1 for the North Division. 

Staying up to date on the Marlies should help you get your hockey fix.

Visit the Hockey Hall of Fame

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The Hockey Hall of Fame is in Toronto, which makes it convenient for fans to go visit for the day.

When depression sets in at the thought of the lockout, fans should go visit the Hall of Fame to reminisce on the good times.

Another reason to visit the Hall of Fame is because Leafs legend Mats Sundin was recently inducted this past year. 

Sundin, originally from Sweden, had an 18-season career. When he retired from the Leafs, he had the all-time record with 987 points and 420 goals.

Visiting the Hall of Fame could be bittersweet for fans. You will be able to see all of the great accomplishments hockey players and teams have made, but the lockout will still be going on when you leave.

Focus on the Virtual Hockey World

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Fans who really want to kill some time with hockey-related activities should spend some time on the Internet and playing video games. 

First, fans should study up on key players that they would want to draft for fantasy hockey. You can waste plenty of time learning about the top players for potential fantasy teams. This would be a great way to become more familiar with players in the league as well. 

Second, fans should play hockey video games. Just because the players do not have games does not mean the virtual hockey world stops. EA Sports’ NHL 12 or the new NHL 13 are great ways to enhance your "hockey" skills. 

Spending time on both of these can help hockey fans cope with their, hopefully temporary, loss.