Bleacher Report - Articles by Derek Harmsworth

Christian Hanson Has Recipe For Success With Maple Leafs

Derek Harmsworth — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:02:01 -0500

As expected, the Toronto Maple Leafs began to make a few roster changes earlier this week. And while it’s obvious that they were made mostly out of necessity due to injuries, fact is—while you never want to see a player hurt—this opportunity may be a blessing in disguise for most all involved.

Vesa Toskala has gone back to the IR, and John Mitchell has joined him there. Both appear to have lower body injuries.

Toskala, who had been turning his season around a little bit, seems to have once again aggravated his consistently wonky groin, while John Mitchell, who has struggled a little in his sophomore season, appeared to damage his MCL when he collided with the boards Monday night.

For the part of backup goaltender, the Leafs have recalled Joey MacDonald. A member of the Toronto Marlies, MacDonald was good in games this pre-season, as well as in the regular season with Toronto in October. It is expected, however, that Ron Wilson will ride Jonas Gustavsson and give him the bulk of the starts in Toskala’s absence.

Replacing Mitchell will be Christian Hanson. His story of course well documented. A collegiate free agent from Notre Dame signed by the Toronto Maple Leafs late last season. Hanson even got into a few NHL games at the end of the year, and notched his first NHL goal against-of all people- Martin Brodeur.

Hanson isn’t quite the pugilist his father once portrayed in the legendary Slap shot movies, but he does have more than enough offensive skill to make him an NHL regular.

But it will be the intangibles that decide whether or not Hanson is here to stay in the NHL this time.

His heart. His leadership. His character. And most of all, his drive (to go to the front of net).

While scouting Hanson, many inside the Leafs organization spoke glowingly of the player as a guy who plays with a tremendous amount of heart, and a player who–as one scout put it—”reeks of character.”

The attributes mentioned above will certainly be tested during his time with the Maple Leafs. They haven’t been known as a team to make things easy on themselves this season so far.

The latest episode in this ever trying season of coming oh so close to breaking the proverbial glass ceiling of course came Monday night when the Leafs were handed a heartbreaking 4-3 overtime loss at the hands of the New York Islanders.

Of course the most heartbreaking fact of all was the shot clock, in which the Leafs had a heavy advantage, firing over sixty shots at Isles goalie Dwayne Roloson, who bent, but didn’t break, en route to stealing a victory for his team.

And while you would think any team taking 61 shots would deserve to win the game, one must take into consideration the very quality of the shots.

Certainly on this night they had adequate chances to beat Roloson and take control of the game, but the bottom line was there were far too many shots in which Roloson had a regular ol’ night at the office.

Little traffic means of course a clear lane for goalies to stop ample pucks.

This, of course, is where Christian Hanson fits into the equation swimmingly, or so the Leafs will hope.

Hanson, one of the bigger Leafs forwards, will no doubt be utilized by Ron Wilson as a big, physical player who can use his big frame to open shooting lanes for his fellow linemates, and to also go the net and create some havoc while looking for a rebound.

For Hanson, it will be a recipe for success if he hopes to keep his career cooking with the Maple Leafs.

On Brendan Burke

Of course the big news of the day (if you will) revolved around the son of the Leafs GM, as Brendan Burke today came out of the closet admitting he is gay in an interview with ESPN.com.

For those of you who haven’t read it yet, I urge you to step on over to the ESPN website, as it is a very well written piece with some great quotes from Brendan and Brian Burke.

And while it’s not my business, nor really is it anyone's business, I will say one little piece about it.

I completely echo the sentiments of Brian Burke in this article where he says he dreams of a day when this type of thing will not really be news at all.

I completely respect Brendan’s decision to come out, and applaud him for doing so.

Leafs Hit The Road To Battle Hurricanes Amid Own Storm Clouds

Derek Harmsworth — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:43:47 -0500

The Toronto Maple Leafs were back on the ice today, practicing with some different line combinations, particularly the one that will feature newcomer Phil Kessel.

Kessel, after spending game one in a Leafs' uniform on a line with Matt Stajan, will get a chance to play alongside John Mitchell this Friday in Carolina. The move comes, according to head coach Ron Wilson, in an effort to get the second year centre going. Mitchell is goalless so far this season, with just five assists to show for his efforts.

Kessel was far and away the best player on the ice for either team on Tuesday as the Leafs lost a hard fought game 2-1 in overtime.

Getting away from the not-so-friendly confines of the Air Canada Centre may do the Leafs wonders, for more reasons than one, that being the fact that the team is win-less so far on home ice.

But even further is the fact that the Toronto Maple Leafs today became the second known hockey organization to admit to getting their H1N1 shots, which has outraged many in the general public, who feel the sports team has jumped the line due to their status as professional athletes.

According to NHL on TSN insider Darren Dreger, the Leafs admit fully to getting the shots, though they also admit to no wrong doing in terms of how they acquired the vaccines.

News broke last night that members of the Leafs and the Marlies, the teams AHL affiliate, were given the needles following Tuesday’s game against the Lightning. It was earlier today that the team acknowledged they got the shot based on the fact that they believed the room to be contaminated.

According to team sources, both Tyler Bozak and Andre Deveraux have been bedridden and quarantined with what they believe is the H1N1 virus. Furthering the paranoia is the fact that Jiri Tlusty, a recent call up to the Maple Leafs, is also reporting symptoms believed to be associated with the virus, which led the Leafs to feel it necessary for them to get the shots due to the fact that they felt at higher risk.

For their part, the Ontario Health Minister is outraged at the fact that the Leafs were allowed to get the shot, which is in high demand right now among everyone. Ontario says they will launch a probe into how the members of the Maple Leafs were allowed to jump queue, and how they acquired the much sought after vaccinations.

Leafs-Lightning: Phil Kessel Officially Arrives, Leafs Lose to Tampa in Overtime

Derek Harmsworth — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:05:05 -0500

It’s another night, and another overtime loss. A hard-fought effort where the Leafs perhaps deserved a better fate. A night where perhaps the final goal of the night shouldn’t have counted. A night where, perhaps we got a true glimpse of what the future may in fact hold for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

I know, it’s getting a little redundant to sit here and speak about the positives after a losing game. But hey, it’s not my fault. Tell the Leafs to close one of these games out and we can all talk about something else.

The Leafs now have a five-game point streak going, where they have collected six of a possible 10 points, the latest coming last night on an overtime loss at the hands of the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Lightning forward Ryan Malone scored a somewhat disputed goal to end the contest.

But it wasn’t all bad news for Toronto.

As in the case with all of the games following a scheduling gap that gave them one full week off, the Leafs have been a better team, and tonight was no different.

Just quickly, it was also good news for those in attendance at Boston Pizza on Yonge Street watching the game. They were hoping so much for a Leafs win that if the Buds lost, they would give out a free pizza to those in in the restaurant. Looks like they gave out around 100 pies.

Not only were the Leafs arguably the better team, but they also had one player in particular who dominated tonight every time he was on the ice (well, almost every time).

He skated hard, flying past (most) opponents. He had great opportunities to score but couldn’t buy a goal. He showed a ton of heart by pulling himself off the mat after this crunch by Matthias Ohlund.

He represents a big chunk of the Maple Leafs future going forward. And if tonight was any indication of what Leafs Nation has to look forward to, he will be welcomed with open arms.

His name is Phil Kessel.

Playing in his first game since being acquired by the Leafs from Boston for three quality draft choices this past September, Kessel looked as fast and dangerous as ever.

He attempted 19 shots, 10 found their way to the net.

He played with a sort of confidence that we haven’t seen from a Leafs player since...well, since big No. 13 left a few seasons ago.

He didn’t score. There’s no denying he wasn’t found anywhere on the scoresheet. But no one with an unbiased opinion could say that the guy didn’t deserve to be.

It was early. It was only one game. But it looks like Phil Kessel will be a hungry sniper for us every night, trying to prove he was worth the contract and draft picks that were moved to acquire him.

Furthermore, despite being only 21 years old, he looks like someone the other players can attach themselves to. Almost looking up to him (which is a figure of speech if you’ve ever stood beside the guy.)

Kessel had the attention of his teammates on the bench, and on the ice, where they were all trying to raise their game to his level. His mere presence made this team just a little better last night.

Lost perhaps in all the Phil Kessel hoopla was the play of Jonas Gustavsson, who once again gave the Leafs a chance to win the hockey game.

Every night since making his regular season debut, Gustavsson has given this team the chance to win, and is doing so all as a rookie in the National Hockey League.

And while I have always been a fan, and never once bashed the guy, I have to ask: How comfortable is that spot on the bench Vesa?

Other than to up his trade value, there is simply no reason to start Toskala, and no reason why we can’t assume Gustavsson is now our No. 1 guy.

Can this last? Is this just a hot stretch for a goalie who has the advantage of shooters not knowing his "book," so to speak?

Well, throw stats and age aside, and I think we see a goalie who will be solid between the pipes for years to come. His positioning on deflections and tips is solid. His reactions are also good (aside from last night’s opening goal.)

And not that it matters, because everyone reacts differently, and I am not accusing Vesa Toskala of not caring, but Gustavsson shows it with every goal.

The guy hates to lose. Hates to give up a single goal.

The Toronto Maple Leafs and more specifically Brian Burke worked very hard in the offseason. Laying groundwork to bring in new guys. He reportedly worked extremely hard to bring in two specifically.

Their names were Phil Kessel and Jonas Gustavsson.

And so far, it’s easy for Leafs Nation to see why.

It’s a rebuild. No one said it would be easy. No one said it would be fast and pain free. But for tonight, we got a chance to see where this team perhaps truly is, what with a legitimate No. 1 goalie and a true top six sniping forward.

There will still be many bumps in the road no doubt, but it’s hard not to at least get a little excited about the latest developments. If nothing else, it looks like we will have fun watching Kessel and Gustavsson for the next few years.

This article originally appeared on Leafs Nation Live

Toronto Maple Leafs Effort Improving, But End Result Still the Same

Derek Harmsworth — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 13:16:53 -0400

You know, sometimes inspiration can be found in weird places. I mean, here we are, about three weeks into the season, and the Toronto Maple Leafs are struggling out of the gate to say the least. And really, while there should be tons of notes to take and opinions to make as to why they are struggling, fact of the matter is, I haven’t a clue why.

Truth be told, maybe this team just isn’t as good as everyone thought they were after a solid pre-season that perhaps raised expectations a few notches. Truth be told, maybe this team isn’t any better than the one that stepped on the ice last year.

But really, that can’t be it.

I mean, despite their early struggles, there is no doubt Francois Beauchemin and Mike Komisarek are upgrades on defense. Garnet Exelby is a physical guy who has made a mark early. And Jonas Gustavsson, after running into early injury troubles, has rebounded nicely and looked good so far in the games this week against Anaheim, Dallas and Buffalo.

In fact, the whole team has rebounded quite nicely. After getting their first win of the season (and only win of the season) against the Ducks on Monday night in California, the entire Leafs team seems to have turned the corner and are putting together better results.

Perhaps the product of confidence that comes with actually winning a game. Perhaps the product of new players finally getting more comfortable in their new uniforms and within their new Ron Wilson-style systems.

Either way, as me and my son spent the week celebrating Halloween (arguably our favourite holiday) one thing became very, very clear to me.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are beginning to look a lot like Charlie Brown.

What with the getting rocks for Halloween, or thinking this may actually be the time they get to kick that football.

You see, it appears the Leafs are a better team than they were once the season began, again a product of chemistry no doubt. But will this year’s team ever be able to kick the proverbial football?

Toronto is a media driven city. It’s very hard for the players of this team to do anything without it being noted by members of the media. The FAN590 did report that Jamal Mayers did in fact eat at the Burger Bar on Augusta yesterday. For the record, he gave the burgers four and a half stars.

Ok, so the above was a little fictitious, but you get the idea.

And while it certainly has never been my job to pump up the media even more than it already is, I really can’t help it this time.

It happened last season. It’s happening this season.

You see, there were times last year when the Toronto Maple Leafs played well enough to win games, but simply couldn’t find that game breaking goal to tie the game or put them on top. It looked as though the team was a pure sniper away from perhaps making a little more noise than they did. Well, that and goaltending of course.

Fast forward to 2009, and it looks like the goaltending situation has been taken care of. One can’t jump to conclusions but it looks like Jonas Gustavsson is capable of making saves and keeping us in games. He also doesn’t look intimidated going into contests, and the team in front of him has reacted accordingly.

And again, for the most part, the efforts are there.

The Leafs are starting to skate faster, hit harder, pass crisper, and show more poise and confidence with the puck (case in point, Lee Stempniak actually concluded a breakaway. Not successfully, but the shot and effort were there).

And so looking at this year, it looks again like the team is a pure goal scorer short of making things at least a little interesting.

Enter Phil Kessel.

Not too much pressure right?

Actually, I don’t think the pressure will be as much on Kessel as it was, say two weeks ago.

The Leafs actually have a win, and are racking up a few points despite the recent losses. They now have five points in 11 games, which is not exactly a number to be proud of, but the overtime-loss points have helped them dig out of the hole a little bit.

Tomas Kaberle is firing on all cylinders. Niklas Hagman is proving why the Leafs gave him a four year deal last summer. Mikhail Grabovski has finally come to play, and Lee Stempniak looks like a player reborn.

So hopefully, Phil Kessel does not feel nearly as much pressure as he would going into his first game now that the Leafs have a few points, and some better efforts to speak of in the last few games.

The big question now remains, who will be the centre that plays with Phil Kessel—the set-up man?

For this, I say, look a little further down the ice. In fact, it may not be the man you would traditionally think.

The Leafs do have a premiere set up man for Phil Kessel. But he isn’t a forward.

His name is Tomas Kaberle.

The Czech-born blueliner, is one of the best passers in the game, whether it be tape-to-tape in the attacking zone, or springing a player with a stretch pass out of the zone.

Kaberle has 13 points, 12 of which are assists. Seeing him deliver stretch passes to the speedy Kessel would certainly help the Leafs to score more goals and be more competitive in the game ahead.

An update on tonight’s game against Montreal

After last night’s heartbreaking loss in Buffalo, the Leafs held an optional practice today. Only a handful of players took to the ice. Kessel, Mayers, Rosehill, Finger, Schenn, Beauchemin, and Toskala were on the ice.

Jonas Gustavsson watched practice from the bench, and while Ron Wilson has been quiet on tonight’s starter, though it looks like Toskala will get the start.

This article originally appeared on Leafs Nation Live

Things To Think About As Toronto Maple Leafs Set Record for Futility

Derek Harmsworth — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 09:46:45 -0400

Another night. Another loss. At least we can say in this one we saw a glimpse of heart.

After controlling the bulk of the play in the second and third period, the Leafs still couldn’t find a way to solve Roberto Luongo (few can) and the result, a 2-1 loss at GM place at the hands of the Canucks.

The Leafs are now off to their worst start in franchise history, and this week isn’t looking kind to them schedule wise. There is, however, some good news on the horizon.

It looks as though “The Monster” Jonas Gustavsson will be ready to take on Brian Burke’s old team, the Anaheim Ducks, this coming Monday night. It would also appear that sniper Phil Kessel will be ready to go by Nov. 3, but as noted earlier this week, the Leafs will certainly exercise caution in getting Kessel back in action.

And while it’s very possible that this team will enter Hockey Night In Canada with a record 0-10-1, I personally predict we will see the Leafs in the win column by the end of the week, and a big game by Gustavsson, combined with the timing of Brian Burke making his return to Anaheim, and it may make for the perfect time to break the goose egg for the Leafs.

The Leafs had a full week off to diagnose the problems that ails them, and while it didn’t come on the scoreboard, there were some positives things to say about this team, particularly in the third period when they controlled the flow of the game.

Still, it’s getting to the point where “good efforts” are no longer things the players, nor the fans, are willing to hang their hats on. As we near the end of October, Leafs Nation is hungry for a win. Just one win, which will hopefully get the ball rolling.

And don’t kid yourselves, the players want it to. It’s not only a monkey, it’s more of a 1000 gorilla carried on all of their backs.

Everywhere they go through the city, they are reminded of their atrocious start. As much as they try not to, they can’t help but see the sports section in the paper, or hear it on the news. They know what they need to do. Now it’s time to go out and do it.

To continue reading Derek Harmsworth's look at last night's loss, as well as this week's fan mail question, click HERE

Things To Think About As Leafs Set Record For Futility

Derek Harmsworth — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 09:46:44 -0400

Another night, another loss. At least we can say in this one we saw a glimpse of heart.

After controlling the bulk of the play in the second and third period, the Leafs still couldn’t find a way to solve Roberto Luongo (few can), and the result: a 2-1 loss at GM place at the hands of the Canucks.

The Leafs are now off to their worst start in franchise history, and this week's schedule isn't looking kind. There is, however, some good news on the horizon.

It looks as though “The Monster” Jonas Gustavsson will be ready to take on Brian Burke’s old team, the Anaheim Ducks, this coming Monday night. It would also appear that sniper Phil Kessel will be ready to go by November 3rd, but as noted earlier this week, the Leafs will certainly exercise caution in getting Kessel back in action.

And while it’s very possible that this team will enter Hockey Night In Canada with a 0-10-1 record, I personally predict we will see the Leafs in the win column by the end of the week.

A big game by Gustavsson combined with the timing of Brian Burke making his return to Anaheim, and it may make for the perfect time to break the goose egg for the Leafs.

The Leafs had a full week off to diagnose the problems that ail them.

While it didn’t come on the scoreboard, there were some positives things to say about this team, particularly in the third period when they controlled the flow of the game.

And don’t kid yourselves, the players want it too. It’s not only a monkey, it’s more of a 1000-pound gorilla carried on all their backs.

Everywhere they go through the city, they are reminded of their atrocious start. As much as they try not to, they can’t help but see the sports section in the paper or hear it on the news. They know what they need to do. Now it’s time to go out and do it.

To continue reading Derek Harmsworth's look at last night's loss, as well as this week's fan mail question, click HERE

Toronto Maple Leafs Could Use Help with a Little "Man Advantage"

Derek Harmsworth — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:23:09 -0400

As October quickly bleeds away from us, two things are certain.

Number one, it’s getting quite cold outside. Number two, the reception for the Leafs during home games so far has been that much colder.

If you didn’t hear (please note the sarcasm), the Toronto Maple Leafs are marred in one of the worst starts in their storied history. To make matters worse? Well, the NHL schedule makers have Leafs games so spaced out, there is nothing to do but talk about the woeful state of the team.

As I watched the third period of yet another embarrassing game the other night, I was approached online by a friend who follows the sport as well, albeit one who’s allegiances lie with a different team. After we exchanged brief greetings, he asked me what just about every person I know has asked me in the past five to seven days.

“What the heck is wrong with the Toronto Maple Leafs?”

That’s what he said. Or, something like that, anyway. A few of the words may have gotten lost in translation.

And to be honest, I simply couldn’t tell him the answer.

A brand new year, the first full year for the illustrious Brian Burke. New players. Skaters, who at the time, looked tailor-made for this team (and I am not saying they still aren’t, mind you.) All this leads to one thing.

Expectations of a team that should be improved.

It started in June. Continued into July. And with a 6-3 preseason record that saw the team play very well during the entire exhibition schedule, expectations were raised.

And perhaps expectation is the fly in the ointment, if you will.

If you look at teams rebuilding, it is fair to say only Toronto has a group of fans who feel the rebuilding process is taking longer than it should.

After all, the Kings and Coyotes are off to fast starts. But there is no reason to believe they can continue these winning ways, just as there is no reason to believe the Leafs will continue to bomb this 2009-10 season as bad as they are currently.

It’s about time. And it’s about basics. These two things will be the key to the Leafs turning this season around.

To continue reading Derek Harmsworth's take on the early season struggles of the Toronto Maple Leafs, click HERE

Brian Burke Gets His Man: A Closer Look At the Deal for Phil Kessel

Derek Harmsworth — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 10:46:50 -0400

It’s just after 10 AM on a Saturday morning in Toronto. It’s September. The mornings are cooler these days, but the sun which makes the dew on the grass glisten like diamonds can be an enchanting scene as you read your morning paper and enjoy a coffee.

Especially when you’re Brian Burke and no doubt skewered across the front of any paper he picks up will be a picture and headline that he had a direct hand in.

After months of speculation and attempts, Brian Burke got his man yesterday, officially obtaining the rights to Phil Kessel. He then quickly signed Kessel to a five-year, $27 million contract.

Somewhere Brian Burke is smiling. And don’t take it for granted, it doesn’t happen a lot.

The Maple Leafs, however, paid a stiff price for the American born winger. First and second round draft choices in 2010, plus another first in 2011 have been awarded to the Bruins in exchange for the services of Kessel, a speedy forward with a creative imagination who certainly automatically becomes the most talented player on this Maple Leafs roster.

There have been times throughout last year, and even early this year, where it looked like the team had a strong enough game overall to win contests, but lacked a true finisher who could bury the chances late in games.

They certainly appear to have that now.

To continue reading Derek's closer look at the Phil Kessel trade, click here

Report: Leafs About To Acquire Phil Kessel from the Bruins

Derek Harmsworth — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:24:38 -0400

According to good friend Darren Dreger, as well as the National Post, the Toronto Maple Leafs are close to finalizing a deal that would send two first-round picks and a second-rounder to the Boston Bruins for star forward Phil Kessel.

The deal is apparently not done, but finishing touches are being put on, and the Leafs are awaiting the conference call to confirm the deal.

More on this as it develops. Stick to Leafs Nation Live for the absolute latest.

Truculent Leafs Do Burke Proud In Fight Filled Game With Bruins

Derek Harmsworth — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 21:59:18 -0400

The Coke Zero fans first game offered Toronto Maple Leafs fans their first look at the new look Toronto Maple Leafs, a team molded in the image of Brian Burke.

And while the scoreboard didn’t end up in the Leafs' favour, there was plenty to cheer about as night one of the preseason wrapped up.

The Boston Bruins snuck past the Leafs 3-2 on a goal by former Maple Leafs defenseman Andy Wozniewski in what was a rough and rugged affair.

It was a night that was filled with fights and entertaining rushes from a seemingly much improved Toronto Maple Leafs team; rookie Tyler Bozak got the game started with a beautiful shorthanded goal in the first period.

Bozak, one of the most touted college freshmen available this past offseason, improved his chances of making the big club by showing big league speed, and big league hands as he turned Matt Hunwick inside out before depositing the puck top shelf past Dany Sabourin to make it 1-0 Leafs.

The Leafs, after a solid opening 20 minutes, took the foot off the gas pedal a little bit, and it resulted in the Bruins taking a 2-1 lead on goals by Steve Begin and Brad Marchand.

Just under three minutes after Marchand’s go ahead goal, another Leafs rookie, Viktor Stalberg, scored a goal from the side of the net to even the score at two goals a piece.

Stalberg, who was a star all night with his speed and hands, scored a goal from the side of the net that Sabourin would no doubt like to have back.

7:02 seconds into the third period, a familiar face arrived late in the rush to break the deadlock once and for all.

To continue reading Derek's recap of tonight's game, with exclusive notes and highlights you won't find anywhere else, click here

Gameday Preview: Leafs Host Bruins To Kick Off Preseason Schedule

Derek Harmsworth — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:18:40 -0400

By: Nolan Sears, weekday game previews, featured columnist.

The Air Canada Centre is sure to be absolutely buzzing tonight, as it is the second annual "Fan’s First" game.

While Beating the Bruins tonight would be a great start to preseason action for "Big Blue," there are more things to pay attention to. The preseason is a time to see what the youngsters can bring to the table, a chance to see the veterans that we know and love, a chance to see some new faces, and a chance to watch new systems set in place.

The Bruins are coming off of a 2-1 win over the New York Rangers last night, a game in which ex-Leaf prospect Tuukka Rask played well with 31 saves.

Dany Sabourin is expected to get the start for the B’s tonight, and while a lineup has not yet been published, Steve Begin, Patrice Bergeron, Drew Larman, Jeff LoVecchio, Michael Ryder, Shawn Thornton, Derek Morris, Mark Stuart, Dennis Wideman, and Andy Wozniewski were seen on the ice earlier today for the Bruins' morning skate.

Other Boston players expected to be in the lineup tonight are Byron Bitz, Matt Hunwick, Adam McQuaid, Vladimir Sobotka, Brad Marchand, Blake Wheeler, Jamie Arniel, and Guillaume Lefebvre.

The Leafs are set to counter the Big Bad Bruins with some big boys of their own.

To Continue reading the gameday preview of the Bruins at the Leafs, plus news about an all new chat room for Leafs fans to talk puck before, during, and after the game, click here.

Maple Leafs News: Gustavsson Has Surgery, Latest on Phil Kessel

Derek Harmsworth — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 20:00:16 -0400

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced today that goaltender Jonas Gustavsson had minor heart surgery this morning after some irregularities came up during this weekends training camp physicals.

It was publicized that Gustavsson left training camp on a stretcher after feeling dizzy following a V02 test, and it appears during the precautionary visit to the hospital, it was suggested he undergo this minor, non-invasive procedure.

The procedure requires a small, catheter like wire to be inserted into the body through a small incision in the groin area. The wire is then used to test out any irregularities that may be on, or in the heart.

The surgery is only minor stressed coach Ron Wilson. The club will give the Swedish netminder 48 hours to rest in order to make sure there is no chance of infection.

Head coach Ron Wilson said that Joey MacDonald, signed primarily for goaltending depth, would take Jonas’ spot in the first few pre-season games.

Wilson meanwhile, looked to have settled on line combinations for tomorrow nights game against the Bruins. He rolled five forward lines that looked like this:

Niklas Hagman Matt Stajan Jason Blake

Lee Stempniak John Mitchell Rickard Wallin

Jiri Tlusty Tyler Bozak Christian Hanson

Tim Brent Nazem Kadri Viktor Stalberg

Robert Slaney Jason Allison Mikhail Stefanovich

To continue reading more of Derek Harmsworth's updates on Jonas Gustavsson, Phil Kessel, and big website related news, clik on the author's name.

Toronto Maple Leafs Stock Exchange: Sept. 8, 2009 Update

Derek Harmsworth — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:26:38 -0400

It’s only two days into the Toronto Maple Leafs' rookie tournament, and training camp still may be a wee bit away from beginning, but it’s never too early to increase your stock, something a few Maple Leafs prospects are finding out this week in Kitchener, Ontario.

Five members of the Toronto Maple Leafs looking to make an impression at training camp got an early start this past weekend. With their play, their stocks have gone up a little bit.

With that in mind, here is your first update to the Maple Leafs Stock Exchange (MLSX for short).

Tyler Bozak: Starting Stock Value: $85, Current Stock Value: $87

One of the players many are divided on heading into training camp got a nice quick start at the rookie tournament this past weekend. Through two games, Bozak has a pair of goals and has been a highly noticeable player throughout the first 120 plus minutes of the tournament.

The most common knock on Bozak is that despite bulking up 20 pounds in the offseason, he is still a very easy player to knock off the puck. And while he may need a little more seasoning, the first two games of the rookie tournament have undoubtedly raised Bozak’s stock. It’ll be interesting to see how good he does next week in the Maple Leafs' main training camp, competing against people more his age.

To continue reading the latest updates on the Maple Leafs Stock Exchange, CLICK HERE

Maple Leafs Rookies Continue To Impress In Tournament Loss

Derek Harmsworth — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 16:26:19 -0400

Game Two of the rookie tournament is in the books for the Toronto Maple Leafs and while the result on the scoreboard wasn’t what Brian Burke and company were looking for, their was still plenty to be excited about after yesterdays 6-5 overtime loss at the hands of the Boston Bruins rookies.

Start with Christian Hanson, who as you know was one guy I wanted to see strut his stuff in this tournament. Hanson scored three goals yesterday while playing on a line with top offensive talent Nazem Kadri and Viktor Stalberg (more on both of those later).

Hanson went to the tough areas of the ice, paid the price for every inch of space, and all three goals were the product of hard work and the ability to take the physical toll to score goals.

Hanson has bulked up and now sits at around 225-228 pounds, something he thinks will benefit his style of play greatly as he tries to carve out his niche as a power forward who will go hard to the front of the net to create offense.

To Continue reading more analysis of Toronto's 6-5 loss to the Boston Bruins in the rookie tournament, click HERE

Gustavsson, Stalberg Shine in Leafs Rookie Tourney Win Over Pittsburgh

Derek Harmsworth — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 11:37:47 -0400

With so much excitement surrounding this season’s Toronto Maple Leafs, fans were chomping at the bit to see a first glance on the blue and white on ice.

And while it was only a rookie tournament game, it’s safe to say the appetite was somewhat whetted by the effort from last nights game in Pittsburgh.

New Leafs goaltender Jonas Gustavsson made 36 saves, a few in spectacular fashion, as the Maple Leafs defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins in Kitchener.

Fans were eager to see what Gustavsson could do, and the Swedish netminder was great against the Penguins, robbing Eric Tangradi once in each period to keep the high scoring Pens forward off the board.

The Maple Leafs were strong in the early stages of the game. The highly anticipated line of Stalberg-Bozak-Hanson delivered the opening goal of the game, a five-on-three powerplay goal converted by Stalberg, the University of Vermont standout. The trio of NCAA players were impressive all night long, delivering a few scoring chances, playing a fast skating, physical style.

To continue reading the review and analysis of last night's 3-1 win over the Penguins, CLICK HERE

The Stock Report: Maple Leafs Training Camp Gains and Losses.

Derek Harmsworth — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 21:17:10 -0400

In the past few days, we've been taking a look at the Toronto Maple Leafs roster using a unique method similar to that of a stock market.

Today, in the third and final installment, we take a look at the goal-tending situation in Toronto.

To say that the Leafs are flourishing with depth in between the pipes is clearly an exaggeration. But at the NHL level, it’s safe to say, if everything goes right, that they'll be in good shape.

Lets start with the resident incumbent, but this time, we will look at their stocks as it relates to making this team as the starting goalie.

Vesa Toskala $93

Toskala had a great first season with the Maple Leafs, but stumbled heavily in year two, eventually being shut down for the year on trade deadline day.

While it may have been the best decision for the player and the team at the time, there is no reason to believe Toskala cant regain his crown as the team’s number one goalie.

A native of Finland, Toskala is a smaller goalie who plays the butterfly style; something that is a little troubling for a goalie who has had a history of groin problems in the past.

Still, one bad season doesn’t make a career, and I think Vesa can return to form and be a solid starting goaltender for the team, though his leash is certainly shorter than it was one year ago this time.

To Continue reading the third and final installment of Raising Stock by Derek Harmsworth, CLICK HERE

Looking Into the Leafs Defense as Camp Nears: Rising Stock Part Two

Derek Harmsworth — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 21:52:00 -0400

Yesterday we introduced a new concept to the website where we took a bit of a different approach to looking at the Toronto Maple Leafs roster, and what each player's chances are of making this team on opening night, by using a stock market approach.

Call it, The Maple Leafs Stock Exchange, MLSX for short (special thanks to reader and loyal fan Nolan Sears, a prize pack is coming your way.)

After looking at the forwards yesterday, and what their current worth is, it’s time to take a look at the defensive side of the equation. Different position, but just as crowded as the forwards, and just as competitive.

With that in mind, lets take a look at the portfolio of defenseman, starting with a couple of sure things.

Francois Beauchemin $93

Beauchemin, one of several defensemen to sign with the Leafs this summer, will be very important to any development with the Toronto Maple Leafs, both on the blueline, and as a whole.

A consummate leader, Beauchemin is a hard-hitting defender who is a very smooth skater and while he isn’t an offensive dynamo, he certainly isn’t desolate in that area of the game either. A very good signing at a very good price tag, Burke went with something he knew and felt comfortable with, and it should pay off for Toronto in spades.

To continue reading part two of Derek's interesting look at the Toronto Maple Leafs roster heading into training camp, CLICK HERE

Raising Stock: Buying Low, Selling High at Maple Leafs Training Camp

Derek Harmsworth — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 19:19:55 -0400

When it comes to the Toronto Maple Leafs, if one thing is certain, it’s that nothing is certain. A group of players has Leafs' Nation divided, particularly on what their season stats may look like, and whether or not they can even make the team.

With something like twenty forwards realistically having a shot to make the team, along with ten defenseman, training camp will be very interesting this year. It may be the most interesting camp the club has had in recent years.

It will be exciting, edge of your seat television. Players' chances of making the cut will go up by the day, down by the shift. Every moment matters.

In fact, to think about it, it’s going to look something like the stock market has over the past few months, though Leafs fans hope the overall numbers are far higher than what we have experienced through mid 2009.

Ron Wilson and staff will be looking to buy low and sell high. They’ll be looking for that next big stock which could take their entire portfolio farther then they could have ever hoped.

And with that, I present to you the Leafs Nation Live training camp stock market chart.

To continue reading Derek's interesting look at the Toronto Maple Leafs roster heading into training camp, CLICK HERE

From A to B: Toronto Maple Leafs' Musings on Allison and Bozak

Derek Harmsworth — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 17:53:20 -0400

Tyler Bozak knows what hockey means in Toronto. He knows that as a projected pillar in the rebuilt Toronto Maple Leafs, there will be immense pressure and scrutiny on him, and the other young guns when the Maple Leafs open training camp in roughly two weeks.

Knowing all those things, one could make the assumption that Bozak, the 23-year-old free agent the Leafs lured away from several other NHL teams last year, would be a little timid getting on the ice.

Not a chance.

Bozak, whose last year of collegiate play ended prematurely due to a knee injury, is chomping at the bit to get back on the ice and playing the game he loves, even if it does come with the pressure and expectations that come with playing in a big market.

In fact, that only makes it that much more exciting.

To continue readings Derek's commentary on Tyler Bozak and his thoughts on the potential return of Jason Allison, CLICK HERE

Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke Hints at Trading for a Forward

Derek Harmsworth — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 16:38:05 -0400

With the NHL season now under a month away, it appears that most general managers sit content with their rosters as their teams head into training camp.

Apparently Brian Burke isn’t one of them.

Yesterday, while taking a break from team USA’s Olympic orientation camp, Burke took the time to talk on a Toronto area morning show and admitted the Leafs are still looking for a forward.

And while that’s hardly news, here is the twist: Burke acknowledged that the current crop of free agent forwards has too steep of an asking price. When asked what they meant for the Leafs' quest to find that top-line forward, Burke admitted it may come by moving some of the depth the team has on the back end.

“What that means is, we may look into trading some of our defensive depth for help in the form of a top-end forward,” he said.

Click here to continue reading Derek's take on who he thinks may be dealt, and which players may come to Toronto in return.

Interview with Toronto Maple Leafs Prospect Jesse Blacker

Derek Harmsworth — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 19:33:17 -0400

There is likely a point in some kid's life growing up in Ontario where he would skate on his backyard ice rink and drift into a fantasy world.

In most of these fantasy worlds, the dimly-lit homemade ice patch gives way to the bright lights of the Air Canada Centre. The young kid skates up a small patch of ice, and blasts a slapshot into an old, rusted, and vacant net.

But that’s not what they see.

They see the seventh game of the Stanley Cup Finals. They see themselves flying down the wing, getting the puck on their stick, and driving home the winning goal for their beloved Toronto Maple Leafs.

For Jesse Blacker, that dream became his reality about one month ago.

Since being drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second round of this year’s NHL entry draft, Blacker, a native of Toronto, has had a crazy summer.

When I asked him about the prospects of being able to, at least for a little bit, kick his feet back with a cold beverage and reflect on his accomplishments this past year, Blacker gave a quick laugh.

“It’s been a short summer due to the long run we had with the Memorial Cup and everything. There hasn’t been much time to relax, but my main focus right now is on training and being ready for September, wherever I may be.”

To continue reading my exclusive interview with Jesse Blacker, including his thoughts on Windsor's Memorial Cup run, and his memories of the Toronto Maple Leafs growing up, click HERE

Wayne Primeau and Anton Stralman: Toronto Maple Leafs and Calgary Flames Deal

Derek Harmsworth — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 20:37:24 -0400

Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke announced earlier tonight that the club has made a trade with the Calgary Flames. It’s a move that sees recently acquired Colin Stuart, a seventh round pick in 2012, and highly touted defense man Anton Stralman to Calgary in exchange for grinder Wayne Primeau, and a 2nd round pick in 2011.

Though it’s only been official for a short while, the move is definitely creating quite a reaction in Leafs Nation, and not all of it is positive.

Stralman, a very popular prospect among Maple Leafs fans, was seen by many as a future top four defense man. In his short time with the Maple Leafs, he has shown flashes of offensive brilliance from the back end.

From a personal standpoint I don’t like this move much as of this writing. Let’s take a look at this a little closer shall we?

To continue reading Derek's analysis of the Leafs/Flames deal, click HERE

Toronto Maple Leafs 2009-2010 Schedule: Ten Games to Look Forward To

Derek Harmsworth — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 20:20:09 -0400

While the summer flying by way too fast is an alarming, and slightly sad reality, truth is there is but one reason to be excited for summer moving as swiftly as it is.

Hockey season.

Yes, though it may seem like the Stanley Cup was just awarded, truth be told, we are not that far from the start of training camps, preseason, and before you know it, puck drop on opening night of the 2009-2010 NHL season.

And in a season that will house many great moments including another Winter Classic, as well as an Olympic break, there are highlights a plenty for every teams fans to get excited about, even in the dead of summer.

And while every game is worthy of being excited for, here are ten Toronto Maple Leafs games that I am really looking forward already this upcoming season.

Thursday October 1, 2009—Home Opener Versus Montreal

Opening night is always exciting. Throw in a historic rivalry, a Belarussian blood feud, and a former top defender who has jumped shipped, and this game just became that much more special.

After going months without hockey, two of the sports biggest fan bases will get their fill and then some when the Habs visit the Leafs on opening night of the 2009-2010 NHL season.

While both these teams need no reason to get up for a game against two of the oldest rivals in all of sports, Grabovski vs Kostitsyn, as well as the defection of Mike Komisarek serve as tasty sidebars for this contest.

Saturday October 3, 2009—Toronto at Washington

Simply put, Alex Ovechkin is one of, if not the, best hockey players on the planet. Add to that a smooth skating defenseman like Mike Green, and emerging goalie in Simeon Varlamov, and it's always exciting to see the Washington Capitals in action.

Things got a tad nasty last year when then rookie Luke Schenn was assigned to cover Ovechkin. The Hart Trophy winner was up to the task, and even delivered a hit that put Schenn on the shelf with a knee injury.

A year older, and a year wiser, it'll be interesting to see if, and how, Luke rises to the challenge this year.

Tuesday October 6, 2009—Ottawa At Toronto

The Battle of Ontario resumes very early into the season, and though it may not have all of the key parts that made it one of the fiercest in the NHL, it's still a great game when the two do battle.

Since the lockout, the Battle has been a bit of a study in contrast. After losing most every game to the Senators in the first two seasons, the tide has turned, and Toronto has began to take over the season series.

With plenty of new faces on both sides, it will be interesting to see a new chapter in the rivalry written.

Saturday October 10, 2009—Pittsburgh at Toronto

Leafs fans pining for a chance to get a look at Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and the rest of the 2009 Stanley Cup Champions won't have to wait long.

The second Saturday of the schedule sees Crosby's Penguins roll into the Air Canada Centre for what will obviously be an good, early measuring stick.

Despite their large difference in the points standings, the Leafs and Penguins had a good season series last year, with Toronto winning the majority of them. Things also got a little nasty when Luke Schenn leveled Evgeni Malkin into the boards, and then proceeded to pummel Tyler Kennedy, who had jumped off the bench to the aid of his teammate.

Monday October 29, 2009—Toronto At Anaheim

Brian Burke is a cocky, arrogant man. There is no denying that. To his credit, when you have the resume he holds, you are allowed to be just a little full of yourself.

Though he moved on peacefully, and though the Ducks had Bob Murray step in seamlessly for what was a good post season run, there is no doubt that Brian Burke and his ego will be pining to see his new team lay the smackdown on his former club.

Burke will also be looking to change the ways of his teams when traveling to the Pacific Coast. California has not been kind to Toronto in recent years.

Saturday November 7, 2009—Detroit at Toronto

Not only is this a classic Original Six era matchup, and not only is it a rivalry of teams in which geographical distance is pretty small, but it's also the NHL's annual Hockey Hall Of Fame Game, meaning the class of 2009, one of the best ever that features the likes of Yzerman, Robitaille, Hull, and Leetch, will be on hand and honoured before the game.

On the ice, the likes of Zetterberg, Datsyuk and Lidstrom will try and teach the young Leafs a lesson in what it takes to be a top team in this league.

For the Leafs, they will look to duplicate last year's contest when, in one of the highlights of the year, the Leafs upset Detroit 3-2.

Monday November 23, 2009—New York Islanders at Toronto

After all the hoopla surrounding Brian Burke's public bromance with John Tavares, and given the fact this is like a "homecoming game" for the kid, it'll be interesting to see his first possible game in the NHL in Toronto this November.

Tavares, the first overall pick in this past June's NHL draft, had a decorated career in the OHL with Oshawa and London. Touted as the next one at the tender age of 14, Tavares will finally have the world stage to prove what he can do, and their may be no brighter and more scrutinized stage in the NHL than in Toronto.

Monday December 7, 2009—Atlanta at Toronto

While it's hardly screams classic rivalry, the Leafs and Thrashers have had some chippy affairs in the past few seasons.

Add to that the fact they made a trade earlier this summer, and the intrigue only goes up from there.

Pavel Kubina, at times unfairly maligned by Leafs Nation, returns to Toronto for the first time since being dealt to Atlanta in exchange for Garnet Exelby and Colin Stuart. Exelby, meanwhile, will likely be looking to make a statement against his former team.

Tuesday January 26, 2010—Los Angeles at Toronto

Brother vs brother? It's certainly a possibility. As the Kings come to Toronto in early 2010, there is chance we may very well see Luke Schenn hounding down his younger brother Brayden, who was drafted to the NHL by the L.A. Kings this past June.

Aside from that interesting story, there is Leafs fans getting the chance to see all the Kings young talent on display, particularly local boy Drew Doughty.

Friday February 12, 2010--Toronto at St. Louis

At first this may not seen like a big game, but a look a little deeper says otherwise.

The chance for Leafs fans to see Alex Steen and Carlo Colaiacovo again is a welcome thing. The two former first rounders have found a niche in St. Louis, a young up and coming team coming off a first round appearance in last year's playoffs.

And, if that isn't enough, this is also the last game before the Olympic break.

This article is also featured on the all new, re-launched LeafsNationLive blog, which can be found by clicking here

Komisarek, Exelby, and Orr Signings Help Maple Leafs Get Tougher

Derek Harmsworth — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 22:01:01 -0400

There is still over three months to go before the 2009-2010 NHL season gets underway, and there are many variables yet to be determined. There is, however, one thing we are quite sure of.

The Toronto Maple Leafs will be far nastier and meaner when it's time to drop the puck.

Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke was busy on the opening day of free agency, adding to the team's image by signing Colton Orr and Mike Komisarek, and trading for Garnet Exelby.

Orr, one of the NHL's biggest pugilists, racked up 193 penalty minutes with the New York Rangers last year. While he is certainly a one-dimensional player, there is little doubt the Leafs won't be a little more respected this upcoming season with a fighter like Orr who will surely take some of the heat of youngsters like Luke Schenn when it comes to dropping the gloves.

Bringing in Orr for $1 million is a slight over-payment and the four-year term is also a little puzzling. Still, for a team who was thrown around the last couple of years, the addition of Orr is a welcomed sight for Leafs Nation.

Later in the afternoon, Burke got a little busier, first making a deal with an old friend, Don Waddell, the GM of the Atlanta Thrashers.

Burke sent blueliner Pavel Kubina and the rights to center Tim Stapleton to Atlanta in exchange for Garnet Exelby and Colin Stuart.

While losing Kubina's offense from the back end will hurt Toronto in their pursuit of goals, a defenseman like Exelby gives them a very mean and nasty player, who loves to throw big hits.

Komisarek meanwhile is coming off an injury-riddled season, but is also a mean defenseman who enjoys playing a physical game. While offense isn't his thing, he is good for 20 to 30 points a season.

Adding Komisarek also brings a new, interesting element into the storied Toronto/Montreal rivalry.

The term of the Komisarek deal is also great news for most of us in Leafs Nation. Bringing in the rugged defenseman for five years at an annual cap hit of $4.5 million is a price the Leafs can live with in this salary cap era.

After today's developments, it will be interesting to see what the Leafs decide to do with sought-after defenseman Tomas Kaberle.

While the Leafs have improved their defense, they are also now lacking in the puck-moving D-man department, which may have them thinking Kaberle should stay around.

On the other hand, it's a team that right now looks like it will have trouble scoring. Trading an asset like Kaberle will certainly help to cure that ail.

According to NHL on TSN insider Darren Dreger, the Leafs are certainly still exploring the option of trading Kaberle.

If you were grading teams based on their first day into the free agent foray, you would certainly have to give the Leafs a passing grade.

While they didn't make any moves to completely solve their problems, or improve their team by leaps and bounds, they did hand out good contracts to good players.

With the addition of Exelby, Komisarek, and to a lesser extent Orr, you have to look at this team and say the Leafs are better today than they were yesterday at this time. It was a team last year that weren't tough enough, nor intimidating. They were terrible in their own end and especially on the penalty kill.

Now, whether or not that has improved dramatically is up for debate, but there is no question it is improvement.

Just one step. One of many in this rebuild phase.

Now, to find someone who can score...

The Maple Leafs: Analyzing Options As July 1st Free Agent Frenzy Begins

Derek Harmsworth — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 20:48:59 -0400

As the Calendar shifts from June to July, and Canadians celebrate Canada Day in their various fashions, the NHL gets ready for a little something they call, "free agent frenzy."

While many fans in Leafs Nation would prefer the club didn't sign too many high profile free agents, it looks like Brian Burke will be active. The Leafs' GM has stated he will spend to the cap, and has a good chunk of change to work with.

Still, there is no doubt that the Maple Leafs must stay the course.

Something is happening in Toronto. Like it or not, this team is rebuilding, and they have taken steps in the right direction. Are they giant steps? Not really, but it's progress, and that's a positive sign.

Still, in the salary cap era, and with the structure of the current CBA, there is still a time and place for a rebuilding team to sign unrestricted free agents. The key is spending wisely.

And with that, I present my list of this years players I think would be a good fit on the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Note that I am not saying these players will all sign with the Maple Leafs. In fact, I am not saying any of them will, but these are the players I think could find themselves in Blue and White next season, in no particular order.

Mattias Ohlund

He will be 33-years-old, by the time next season starts. Ohlund is a player who Brian Burke is very familiar with, a factor that is prominent on this list.

Ohlund is a solid two-way defenseman who is steady on the back end, while contributing twenty to thirty points a season. Ohlund was also an impressive plus fourteen last season with the Canucks.

Ohlund made $3.5 million last season with Vancouver, and with the likely departure of Tomas Kaberle and Pavel Kubina, that is a number the Leafs will be able to live with.

Mike Cammalleri

A Toronto-area native, Cammalleri will be twenty eight by the time next season starts, and is coming off a career year with the Calgary.

Cammalleri scored thirty nine goals and finished the year with 82 points in 81 games with the Flames. A solid offensive talent, many people believe Cammalleri has arrived as a top six forward, and his speed and scoring touch is something the Leafs could certainly use.

And don't let the 5'9" frame fool you, Cammalleri has no problem mixing it up, or going into the corners for loose pucks.

Signing players off a career year can be risky though, and some say that Cammalleri isn't worth the $5 million plus he will be seeking. And while his price tag is up for debate, there is little doubt his addition would make him the most skilled offensive player on the Maple Leafs.

Mike Komisarek

With a cap hit of $1.7 million last season, it's safe to say that is the last time anyone will get the services of Komisarek at that bargain price.

The menacing twenty-seven year old defenseman is a stay at home blueliner, notching around twenty points a year, Komisarek is more known for his heavy hitting, and ability to stand up for his teammates.

His 6'4", 240 pound frame is an intimidating figure, no matter where he is on the ice.

While some people are worried that last year Komisarek fell to earth, there is also a group of people who feel Komisarek may be the cure for the Leafs' defensive ails.

Francois Beauchemin

Another player Burke is familiar with, Beauchemin was brought to Anaheim as an afterthought in the Sergei Fedorov trade. As it turns out, he would pretty much be the focal point.

Beauchemin is in line for a raise from his $1.65 million he made last year, but there is little doubt a defenseman as solid as Beauchemin's ilk wouldn't be at least worth Jeff Finger type money, if not more.

A guy who is again usually good for twenty to thirty points a year, Beauchemin brings it with physical play, and has the legs to keep up with most the league's top players. Beauchemin also has a booming shot from the point.

Samuel Pahlsson

Another player with Burke familiarity who won't put up a lot of points, Pahlsson is a great defensive centre, and has proved in the past he can shut down the league's top forwards throughout the league.

Pahlsson made $1.4 million this past season with Anaheim and Chicago, and it's very likely that amount could go up, though no one is quite sure by how much.

He certainly didn't help his case this past playoffs with the Blackhawks.

Still, Pahlsson would certainly help the Maple Leafs in the faceoff and penalty kill department, though it may be cheaper for the Leafs to consider other options, or give the ball to John Mitchell and see how much further he progresses this year.

Manny Malhotra

At first glance I will get a couple "say what?" responses here. However, if you look a little further, and you'll find Malhotra is a dependable fourth line centre who can kill penalties, and also provide veteran leadership.

A local boy who will come cheap, Malhotra is the type of player who does little things well, and even chipped in a respectable 11 goals and 35 points for Columbus last year.

Chad LaRose

Another third line grinder type player, LaRose is another one of those guys who does everything you want of a player. He can score timely goals, hit, and fight.

LaRose is no doubt an energy guy, and his style of play would look great on the Toronto Maple Leafs.

So that's it, that's my list. Sorry it's a little late, and sorry it's a little shorter than last year.

This is a list full of third line energy guys and defense, it's obvious after last season the Leafs must improve their defense and special teams, something I think very possible with healthy, reliable goaltending, and players like these in the lineup for next season.

Be sure to check out the blog all day tomorrow, as we will have live coverage and analysis of the Maple Leafs moves on free agency day.

This article is featured on the blog, live now by clicking here. Also, keep your eyes peeled to the blog in the next few days, as we have a big announcement planned in the coming days.

Toronto Maple Leafs: Leafs Take Kadri, Thoughts On Day One of NHL Draft

Derek Harmsworth — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 09:30:21 -0400

Nazem Kadri is a bust. Brian Burke is an idiot.

At least that's what some in Leafs Nation are screaming this morning after the Leafs failed to trade up in the first round of last night's NHL entry draft.

And to be honest, it's really quite a shame.

It's hard to blame Leafs fans for being a little edgy, after all, they have suffered through mediocrity for some 40-plus years. However, to immediately cast Kadri off and say it was, as one fan put it on a message board, "a waste of a pick" is downright embarrassing.

You see, last night, there really was no right answer for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Sure there were scenarios that most fans dreamed up in their heads that were far fetched to begin with, but it really didn't matter what the Leafs did last night.

Because Brian Burke didn't trade for John Tavares, Brayden Schenn, and trade Tomas Kaberle for five first round picks, the night was an absolute, and utter failure right?

Wrong. In fact, dead wrong.

Sure, Brian Burke didn't help himself by publicly declaring his virtual bromance with John Tavares, but the fact of the matter is, Burke worked feverishly and diligently to move up in this year's draft, and in fact had a deal on the table (more on that later).

But the simple fact remains, he felt the price too high, so he picked where the Leafs were slated to, seventh overall, and selected a pretty damn good player in Nazem Kadri.

So now that we've had a few hours to settle a bit, I ask those in Leafs Nation to take one giant step back from the ledge and let me explain how this draft wasn't a loss for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Start from the very beginning of this story.

Moving up to grab John Tavares

Again, like I said, Burke didn't help himself by making his feelings for JT known. Still, the simply fact remains that even if he wanted to make a deal, it was impossible.

Brian Burke is a smart hockey mind. In fact, he is a lot of things. Unfortunately, magician isn't one of them.

See, the New York Islanders never once entertained the idea of trading the No. 1 pick. Though there was some shroud of mystery over who they were selecting, there is no doubt they were using that pick from the word go.

Therefore, everything Brian Burke perhaps wanted to do, was contingent on the New York Islanders and what they had planned for the first overall pick.

Once they chose Tavares, there was little reason for Burke to deal Luke Schenn and other assets away to Tampa Bay.

Victor Hedman and Matt Duchene are top class prospects and no doubt will be great NHL players, but Burke wanted Tavares.

And once he was off the board at No. 1, it didn't make sense for Burke to risk as much assets as Tampa GM Brian Lawton wanted to move up to the two spot.

Selecting Nazem Kadri seventh overall

After much speculation, the Leafs held onto the seventh overall pick, and with it selected Nazem Kadri, a shifty, playmaking centre from the OHL's London Knights.

While some fans were disappointed that Brayden Schenn was no longer around, and that the Leafs left players like Pajaarvi-Svensson and Jared Cowan on the board, there is no doubt in my mind that they still will get a hell of a player out of Nazem Kadri.

In his first year with his hometown London Knights, Kadri notched 78 points in 56 games this year in the regular season, followed up by a 21 point playoff (which tied him with Tavares, by the way.)

As a person who calls the London area his home, I had the personal opportunity to see Kadri play at least 10 times this year, and I can assure you, this kid brings it.

He has a great shot, and is a smooth skater who can read plays very well. He also isn't afraid to get his nose dirty when the play gets chippy.

I even had the chance to meet him at an autograph signing, and I can tell you he is over the moon about the fact he gets to play hockey for a living. He was very nice to every fan that came through, constant smile on his face, and he knows how fortunate he is to be where he is.

Add to that the fact he is coming from the Hunter brothers hockey factory in London. Kadri comes from the same London Knights team and management group that has churned out Patrick Kane, Sam Gagner, Steve Mason, and John Carlson.

After the dust settles, and some of the bitterness of false hope subsides, Leafs fans will be very happy with Nazem Kadri.

One interesting aside though, usually one of my favourite personalities, I didn't care much for James Duthie asking Brian Burke how disappointed he was in picking Kadri, with Kadri sitting between the two of them.

Just seemed a little unprofessional to me.

Trading Tomas Kaberle

The Leafs said all along, they would have preferred to wait until July to trade Tomas Kaberle.

Offers came in yesterday, about four or five from what I heard. And the Leafs certainly considered them, but at the end of the day they feel it's much better to wait until after July 1 to make any deal.

The reason is simple.

Teams who lose out on jay Bouwmeester, or who aren't willing to pay his demands, will be calling the Toronto Maple Leafs, and looking for a puck moving defenseman.

By holding onto Kaberle until Bouwmeester is signed and sealed in another NHL city, the demand for the Leafs prized asset will rise, maximizing the return.

Don't think for a second Burke didn't consider offers yesterday, but their original plan was to hold off until July 1.

It was only day one of the draft

Day two of the draft, as the Leafs proved last year, is a very important day also. The Leafs own two second round selections, and one each in the third, fifth, sixth, and seventh round.

There are plenty of young talented players out there for the Leafs to choose from. Among them, Ryan O'Reilly and Tomas Tatar.

Not to mention plenty of goaltenders available, whom you know the Leafs will have their eyes on. Matt Hackett and Jaroslav Janus among them.

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Tomas Kaberle and the Boston Bruins: To Deal or Not To Deal?

Derek Harmsworth — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 11:23:29 -0400

Yesterday, it was reported by Darren Dreger of TSN that the Toronto Maple Leafs had received a "significant" offer for defenseman Tomas Kaberle.

Early this morning, it was revealed that the team making the offer was the Boston Bruins. Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli has apparently offered the Toronto Maple Leafs young sniper Phil Kessel in exchange for the services of Tomas Kaberle and the seventh overall pick.

(To toot my own horn a little bit, this deal—or part of it—was speculated on my new blog a few days ago.)

Phil Kessel is a fantastic young player. A man who has had a lot of his career derailed by a couple of unfortunate circumstances, Kessel has gotten better on the ice every year, and last season fighting through mono scored 36 goals in 70 games.

But the asking price, seems to be a little steep. For Boston to grab Kaberle and the Leafs' seventh overall selection in exchange for Kessel—who is an RFA—seems favoured in Boston's way a little too much.

In order for this deal to work, in my opinion, the Leafs would need to receive Boston's first-round choice, plus perhaps their second or third.

Another option is to revisit the deal rumoured on my blog a few days ago which would send Kaberle to Boston in exchange for Kessel, a prospect, and perhaps another mid-round draft pick.

As Brian Burke enters the draft tonight, and the myriad of trade proposals that are no doubt going to coming his way throughout the afternoon, there should really be two untouchables.

Luke Schenn, and the seventh overall pick.

The thought of Kessel is tantalizing for many fans in Leafs Nation, but the current price tag may be too steep.

This article is also featured on my blog, LeafsNationLive, which is updated daily and frequently with breaking news

Toronto Maple Leafs: Talks Heating up as NHL Draft Nears

Derek Harmsworth — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 15:44:56 -0400

With the NHL Entry Draft now just over 24 hours away, the rumours are really starting to heat up, especially when it comes to Brian Burke and the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Burke has been attempting to move up for the better part of the last two months. But talks are now finally getting serious, as all of the general managers have arrived in Montreal in anticipation of Friday's draft.

Start with the previously mentioned John Tavares sweepstakes, if you will.

The New York Islanders have done a fantastic job of not tipping their hand leading into Friday night. You can find people who are adamant that the Isles will take Tavares, and then turn around and find just as many people who feel they will take towering defenseman Victor Hedman.

There is also word that Islanders owner Charles Wang quite fancies Matt Duchene, so your guess is as good as mine.

The only thing we do know for sure is that if the Islanders pick anyone but John Tavares, the feeding frenzy will begin.

There was also the rumour last night where Darren Dreger spoke about the Leafs offering up the seventh overall pick for a "roster player" in the Western Conference.

After contacting him this morning, though, Dreger wouldn't elaborate with me, no matter how much agony I displayed.

There is also a strong report coming our way this afternoon, as Dreger reported at 3:20 p.m. that the Maple Leafs have received a "significant offer" for Tomas Kaberle, though he said details were sketchy at this point.

Andy Strickland reported yesterday that the Maple Leafs and Coyotes were talking of a deal that involved Tomas Kaberle, but couldn't come to an agreement.

Oh, the NHL offseason. Never a dull moment. Particularly here in Toronto

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Sniper For Sale: Senators Have Options When It Comes To Trading Heatley

Derek Harmsworth — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 20:52:27 -0400

First, let me drop some knowledge on ya. I'll be real honest. I was at my desk listening to Leafs Lunch on AM640 in Toronto when I first heard that Dany Heatley had requested a trade from the Ottawa Senators organization.

Of course, my first reaction was to giggle like a school girl.

After all, any time a player is unhappy and makes a trade demand public, it certainly looks like a bit of a black eye on most franchises, particularly when it comes to Ottawa and the turbulent last few years they have had since going to the Cup finals in 2007.

Losing a perennial fifty goal scorer sucks, no matter what team you are. The fact that it's a Leafs rival, and a guy who has made a career out of torching my beloved Buds, I couldn't quite conceal my happiness. As far as I was concerned, they could ship him somewhere in the Pacific Division, where the Leafs would rarely have to see him.

But upon further pondering, the smirk wiped off my face. You see, as mentioned above, losing a fifty goal scorer is not good. They don't grow on trees per say.

But as I thought deeper into what type of move the Senators could make when they do decide to address this and trade Heatley, and trust me I am always thinking of trade scenarios, one thing hit me pretty hard.

Perhaps, the move that sends Dany Heatley out of the Nation's Capital, will be the move that kick starts the Senators and once again elevates them among the leagues elite.

Don't get me wrong, I am not saying Heatley was the root of the Senators problems, far from it. But anytime you trade a top line winger, you put yourself in the position that, should you handle the moves properly, could make you that much stronger.

At the end of the day, there are three ways the Senators can handle this situation.

Number one, the most unlikely, is that Heatley and coach Cory Clouston sit down, have a heart to heart and hash out their differences, for the better of the team but that is highly unlikely. Heatley first informed the team he wanted a trade at the end of the season. Ottawa asked he sit on it for a bit and deliberate. Heatley took a few weeks, and then went forward with his demand for a trade.

It doesn't look like there is any going back now.

Option two is to trade him for young, inexpensive talent. On the surface this may not make sense, but it's all relative really.

Sending Dany Heatley to a team that is full of young, talented prospects will help the Senators immensely as a franchise if this is the avenue they decide to take. Let's say they decide to make a draft day deal. Bryan Murray could likely ask for three to four young up and coming prospects, and possibly an additional first round draft pick.

And while none of the young players Ottawa may acquire will step into the lineup right away and fill the void he left, they can use the cap relief from dealing Heatley to sign another top forward, someone along the lines of Marian Gaborik, or Marian Hossa. There are also options like Brian Gionta out there as well.

Option three, and the most flashy among most Senators fans, is to trade superstar for superstar.

Ottawa GM Bryan Murray would likely tell you that they like the set up they had with Heatley. If he weren't disgruntled and asking for a trade, there is little to think he would be moved.

So it makes sense that Murray may in fact trade superstar for superstar and attempt to replace Heatley with another potential big point producer or game breaker, and for that, there are some intriguing options.

Start in Calgary, where the rumours continue to persist that the Flames are interested in dealing Dion Phaneuf. Personally I find that unbelievable, and would consider it a big mistake for the Flames to deal Phaneuf after one off season.

Still, a Heatley/Phaneuf swap would greatly benefit both teams. Ottawa will get a top ten defenseman who can score and bring toughness. The Flames would get another high flying winger, who along with Jarome Iginla make two thirds of a formidable line combo.

And while the move would certainly help Ottawa on the back end, they could be looking for a top end winger who can step into the teams top line immediately.

From there, we see a few interesting options.

How about Martin St. Louis? While the Lightning would not be getting any cap relief with this deal, they would get someone who is more consistent than St. Louis when it comes to scoring goals. The downside to this is of course the relationships St. Louis has with both Lecavalier and young Steven Stamkos.

Another interesting option for the Senators would be for them to look West. As in, San Jose.

A deal that would see Dany Heatley sent to San Jose in exchange for Joe Thornton would certainly shake things up for both teams, and give the players the much needed change of scenery.

The Sharks need to decide whether they want to keep Thornton or Marleau. Both are number one centres, and having them try and share the ice has been uncomfortable during Joe's time on the West Coast.

I won't get into specifics of whether it would be a one-for-one swap, or a move involving multiple players. if the latter is the case, you could make the case that the Sharks would send Thornton and Cheechoo to Ottawa in exchange for Heatley and perhaps another player or draft pick.

Heatley has the speed, skill, and toughness to make the Western Conference his playground, and having Jumbo Joe in Ottawa would certainly take some of the pressure off of Jason Spezza.

All these juicy side stories, and it's hard to believe we are also blessed with a game seven Friday night.

It's a great time to be a hockey fan, without question.

In"creasing" Questions Surround Maple Leafs' Goalie Situation

Derek Harmsworth — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 21:54:41 -0400

There is little question that the 2009-2010 Toronto Maple Leafs will look different than the group that was on ice this past year. How much different? Well, that depends on who you ask.

Some feel it's a big year for the Leafs, who have the cap space to (wisely) be a major player in the free agent market.

Some feel they should just sit on what they have, and allow the young guys to continue their development, which showed promise this past season.

And while we don't know who will be the Leafs' top draft pick, or their first signing on July 1, we do know something about the goaltending situation.

Although, in this case, it's not who will be between the pipes. In this instance, we know who won't be.

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced today that fan favourite Curtis Joseph would not have his contract renewed by the club this summer, and will become an unrestricted free agent. This concludes Cujo's second tour of duty with the organization. He was first with the team from 1998-2002.

Burke credited the veteran netminder for his service with the Leafs, but admitted the team was ready to move in a new direction.

Joseph has not yet decided on whether he will play next season or not.

However, the announcement that Joseph will not be returning was shortly thereafter trumped, when the Toronto Sun reported that the Leafs will not renew the contract of Justin Pogge.

Once touted as the goaltender of the future, Pogge is a pending restricted free agent.

And while I am not sold on this move, one can argue that Pogge has been slow in the development process, it is hard to see from this standpoint, why a team that lacks goaltending depth would simply let one of their prospects walk for nothing.

The more logical step at this point would be to qualify Pogge, in hopes of including him in a package trade, possibly to obtain more draft picks in a few weeks time.

Of course the proposed idea that Pogge won't be qualified is merely hearsay at this point, but it certainly would be a bit of a bold move, from a GM looking to put his stamp on the team. Goalies typically take a while to develop, but three years in the AHL, and Justin Pogge isn't even a starter.

There is little question the patience is running thin within the organization.

So where exactly does that leave the Maple Leafs goaltending situation?

Well, the obvious word making the rounds is that they would like to go into next season with a Vesa Toskala/Jonas Gustavsson tandem, though that is far from the only option.

Start with Toskala, where it is all but a given he will be on this team next year. Toskala is coming off a sub par year, in which he played most of it injured before being shut down at the trade deadline. There is a lot of faith in Vesa from both Burke and coach Ron Wilson that he can be the team's No. 1 goalie.

Toskala, who is recovering from off-season surgery, is said to be excited to get back in the net and prove last year was an injury riddled year, and not indicative of the skill set the Finnish netminder can display.

Besides, even if they wanted to rid themselves of Toskala (which I personally wouldn't do) his contract makes it very hard to do right now. And with only one year remaining on a deal that sees him paid $4 million, a buyout doesn't make sense.

There is always the option, if deemed expendable, that Toskala could be traded to a contender at the deadline if his season stats improve.

So who backs him up? Well, you're guess is as good as mine. But here are a few options.

Jonas Gustavsson: It looks like the talks between the Leafs and "The Monster" have cooled off. In fact, Burke, like the other teams involved, were simply giving the Swedish goaltender some space after the unfortunate passing of his mother.

Gustavsson is apparently ready to put the pursuit back on, and will visit a few cities, Fabian Brunnstrom style, before making a decision. The Leafs and Avalanche are believed the front runners at this point.

Martin Gerber: Yes he may be a Senators "castoff." Yes he may be an older goalie, and two goalies aged thirty and over doesn't exactly scream rebuild. But let's face it, Martin Gerber played pretty well for the Leafs down the stretch.

A waiver wire pickup on deadline day, Gerber was immediately thrust into action and pulled off a few stellar performances for Toronto in goal. Despite his meltdown in Ottawa, Gerber proved to be a steady option for Toronto last year when called upon, and on paper, he and Toskala could prove to be a solid duo in between the pipes.

Craig Anderson: Anderson was a virtual saint for the Panthers last year. There was a point where he about stole the starters job from Tomas Vokoun, and his numbers were admirable for the team in which he was on.

At the age of 28, Anderson is starting to turn out quality numbers, and while I don't know if he will ever be a starter, he would be an inexpensive option for the Leafs at the backup position.

These are just a few of the options the Maple Leafs have to run with as free agency nears. While there isn't per say strong options in the goalie market this summer, there is a few solid options for backup.

It's another big year for the Maple Leafs goaltending. Last year, everything seemed so rosy.

"Vesa will probably play 70-75 starts, and Cujo will just stand in there the rest of the time."

That was the mantra of Maple Leafs fans-myself included-last summer around this time. On paper, it works out wonderfully. Unfortunately as we found out through this past season, the games aren't played on paper.

There are a ton of questions surrounding the Maple Leafs this year, and, like the rebuild itself, it starts from the net out.