Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Boston Bruins Pre-Game Report

The Toronto Maple Leafs hit the road once again as they prepare for a Thursday night tilt with the Boston Bruins at the Gardens. The Leafs; who snapped an ugly 5 game slide with a win over Carolina on Tuesday night; will be looking to win consecutive games for the first time in well over a month.

Overshadowing the game, however, will be the potential GM change that could occur within the next few days. The Leafs have already asked the Coyotes permission to speak with Cliff Fletcher, this alone is evidence that the organization is scrambling to replace current GM John Ferguson. This change could not come at a better time as Leaf fans at the ACC voiced their displeasure for Ferguson during the third period of Tuesday night's game when ”Fire Ferguson" erupted throughout the arena. Ironically enough, the Leafs were winning at the time the chant took place.

Vesa Toskala is expected to get the start for the Leafs. He allowed 4 goals on 25 shots against the Hurricanes. This was seen as a shaky outing for the Finnish net minder who has been one of the few bright spots on the team thus far. The Bruins will likely counter with journeymen Tim Thomas, who has been a pleasant surprise for the Bruins this season. 

Both teams have their fare share of injuries as the Leafs currently have Bryan McCabe, Carlo Colaiacovo, and Mark Bell shelved with various ailments. Alex Steen; who missed Tuesday's game with the flu; is listed as probable as is Nik Antropov who injured his leg in the third period of Tuesday's game. For the Bruins, they will be without Glen Murray, P.J Axelsson, Patrice Bergeron, and Manny Fernandez. Given the amount of injuries facing the Bruins, it is quite evident that the Leafs need to utilize this to their advantage.

With an opportunity to string together consecutive wins for the first time in over a month, and a potential GM change on the horizon; things may begin to slightly look up in Leafs nation. The major question up for debate will now be: does the team try to put together a run under the new GM or do they choose to continue their death spiral and land themselves in the Steve Stamkos sweepstakes? Leafs nation will most likely side with the second scenario as most fans have grown tired of the team's state of limbo.