Toronto Maple Leafs Defeat Hurricanes, Ending Losing Streak

    The Toronto Maple Leafs ended a five game skid by defeating the flu riddled Carolina Hurricanes 5-4 at the Air Canada Center last night. The win, however, did not sooth the soul of Leaf fans as a “Fire Ferguson” chant began early in the third period. It has become clear that Leafs nation wants some big changes regardless of one win, or even a 10-game winning streak. Furthermore, the Leafs potentially sustained another injury as Nik Antropov left the game in the third period.

    Head coach Paul Maurice can also breathe a sigh of relief as his frustration has been evident over the past few weeks. His post game comments echo this fact. “It's a win and we're taking it,'' he said. ''With all that was going on (surrounding the team), with all due respect buffoonery, getting back to just playing hockey. In some ways it becomes easier. ''Maurice is evidently referring to the numerous news stories concerning possible coaching and GM changes.

    The game itself was not the best win of the season, but the team will definitely take it. Tomas Kaberle, Chad Kilger, Matt Stajan, Alexei Ponikarovsky, and Ian White all pitched in with a goal, while Jason Blake turned in a solid performance with two assists. Sergei Samsonov, Erik Cole, Andrew Ladd, and Rod Brind’Amour responded with goals for the Canes, who dropped their third in a row and fourth in five games.

    The Leafs were once again guilty of committing numerous defensive zone turnovers that led to scoring chances for the Hurricanes. On the positive side, rookie Anton Stralman continues to impress as he is given a bigger role on the blue-line. He could potentially be in the Leaf’s plans next season as a top six defender.

    More concerns arose from this game for the Leafs as Nik Antropov limped off the ice favoring his leg with about 12 minutes left to play in the third period. X-rays were reportedly negative and he will be reevaluated Wednesday. Antropov has been arguably the team’s second best forward this season behind captain Mats Sundin.

    The Leafs will now head to Boston for a Thursday night tilt with the Bruins. The Leafs will be looking to win consecutive games for the first time in more than a month. It could be a tough task to accomplish with the possibility of Antropov joining McCabe, Colaiacovo, and Bell on the sidelines.