Bleacher Report - Articles by Graeme Boyce

Maple Leafs Forwards Set to Reward Fans on the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 12:43:42 -0400

Enough has been said about the Leafs new-look vaunted blue line corps, not to mention Brian Burke's intimations about acquiring a Top Six forward to complete his re-tooling. So today I'm going to have a look at our current high scoring forwards.

A parade of Toronto GMs over the past three decades are often accused for not giving their young picks a chance to develop, who ultimately bring in over-the-hill vets to appease local mainstream media demands, and recognize the value of the franchise and in a Steinbrenner approach need to see money spent on Owen Nolan or Eric Lindros types, while trading away all promising stars and never building a team for the future.

Flashback: I clearly remember proudly watching each night an "awful" team featuring Rick Vaive and Bill Derlago, and a host of other characters, like Jim Korn and Rocky Saganuik, not to mention Darryl Sittler and Ian Turnbull, though also playing in an era featuring youngsters Jim Benning, Fred Boimistruck and Bruce Boudreau, who in an 81-82 season at least finished ahead of the Red Wings.

Our current corps is now well protected specifically by Colton Orr. The psychological impact on these so-called smaller players will be immediate. Orr will enjoy the limelight, as he did in New York. He won't score goals. He will enable Blake and Grabovski that opportunity—and these two are the only players under six foot, fyi.

Blake had 63 points last year. He really must've felt the pressure last year and, frankly, he responded very well. He'll score more than 25 goals this year. Grabovski, in his rookie season last year, potted 20 goals, and was supremely entertaining, in a productive and pesky kinda way.

With all opposition bodies flattened in our new and improved defensive zone, Toronto's forward will be finding lots of room to skate out and pick up speed across the neutral zone, with and without the puck. Forechecking and cycling effectively was a large part of the scoring success the team enjoyed last year.

Entering into this fray will be skilled players like Niklas Hagman, Nikolai Kulemin and John Mitchell. Given some good luck around the net, it's not unreasonable that Matt Stajan, Lee Stempniak and even Poni and might each get 20 goals. Hagman had 22 last year, Kulemin (who will have more confidence now) had 15, and Mitchell had 12.

Disappointly, Stajan had 15 last year, Stempniak had 14, and Alexei Ponikarovsky managed 23. If one goes off his butt, like Domi's infamous goal, we'll thank Orr accordingly, but hopefully Wayne Primeau snaps home a few, as well as wild card Rickard Wallin. Speaking of wild cards, I predict Jamal Mayers will contribute more than 7 goals... before the Olympics.

With training camp around the corner, one of the youngsters will crack the opening day lineup, from among this group Christian Hanson, (namesake—but no relation) Darryl Boyce and possibly either Tyler Bozak or Jiri Tlusty.

Most likely the latter will succeed. As opposed to years gone by, now that Tlusty has accordingly been given the time to improve and gain his confidence with recent jaunts in the NHL, he will make an impact. I didn't think Grabovski would pop 20 in his rookie season.

So, it's not unreasonable to expect and believe Tlusty will achieve the same lofty level this year, especially with all the room on the ice, up and down and around open boards; the freedom to wheel and deal like we Leafs fans have never seen before.

Where did that Bruce Boudreau kid end up anyway?

Trade Rumours Heating Up Toronto For Maple Leafs on The Way To The Cup

Graeme Boyce — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 17:38:08 -0400

So I'm having a quiet ale in a nearby pub today and low and behold, a heated discussion breaks out about Brian Burke's next move. We all know the Leafs have a few too many tradeable defensemen at the moment, and a dire need for a sniper.

So I'd like to share the highlights of that discussion, as I believe you, like I, enjoyed the passionate speculation, while of course wondering which of these players will be hoisting the Cup above their heads next June...

Jeff Finger is signed for three more seasons at $3.5 million per. Though he's tough, and Burke likes 'em tough, and hails from the Western conference, he could easily be packaged for a forward, along with decent prospect Anton Stralman, if need be, in exchange for Carolina's Scott Walker.

Well, if that wasn't food for thought, how about this: Mike Van Ryn, who I like, gets nearly $3 million - yet we have to admit, and although his heart was in the right place, didn't exactly meet up to community standards at the end of the day - in exchange for Cody Hodgson, if Burkie also threw in Ian White.

It didn't stop there. Ten games into the season, and if Vesa Toskala is doing well, then trade him - and let 'The Monster' take a run backstopping an underdog's run to the Cup next spring. If Toskala performs lousily, then he becomes a backup anyway.

But the best for the last? Tomas Kaberle for Jordan Staal. I don't know about you, but I went positively giddy over that one. Staal, who'd deliver quite a few goals for the Leafs, is stalled on the Pens' third line and Gonchar will be gone in a few years, and we know about Kaberle's skills.

That's all folks. But, as you can imagine, it was a great discussion and it's only July.

Blue Line Crowded for Leafs on Their Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:35:18 -0400

As we all know, it's getting a little uncomfortably crowded in the Maple Leafs locker room, especially along the blue line. Something's gotta give. We know Brian Burke isn't finished wheeling and dealing prior to the puck dropping on a highly awaited new season, and we would all begrudgingly agree that Thomas Kaberle is on the block.

Francois Beauchemin. What a pickup. On top of Mike Komisarek. Garnet Exelby is no slouch, and will be a lot of fun to watch.

I wonder what Kaberle would fetch, though I also wonder how Burke would position the diminutive player—yet with an extremely affordable price tag, and so another player would naturally become part of the package. I have previously written about blockbuster trades. We need a sniper—a player up front who can finish around the net. Phil Kessel comes to mind.

Chicago is shopping some good players, like Patrick Sharp, who will probably gone by the time I publish this article. Then there's Buffalo and Drew Stafford. Yes, the same one who scored the highlight reel goal against Justin Pogge last winter. And David Backes currently in St Louis. I could see Brett Sonne thrown in to tip the scales.

So then I wonder about who else might be available as a valuable addition to a multi-player trade. A player that has tipping point potential: Lee Stempniak, who didn't exactly exceed my expectations last year. But he's not going back to St Louis. He is from Buffalo and would likely enjoy a "fan favorite" billing there, as he obviously has plenty of potential.

I guess Jonas Gustavsson backing up Vesa Toskala is a good move and proving to be a useful visit to Sweden for Burke after all, while also providing clarity for Curtis Joseph and Martin Gerber as Justin Pogge is slated for another season with the Marlies.

Speaking of the farm team, Mikhail Stefanovich looks real good, and big Jimmy Hayes is one to watch too—and of course Ryan Hamilton, who's jockeying to grab a spot in the big club's lineup down the left wing. Looks who's there: Jason Blake, Poni, Niklas Hagman, Nikolai Kulemin and Brad May.

One last point. Two words: Ryan Hollweg. Oh yeah. He's a left winger. It is a crowded locker room indeed.

Three Key Acquisitions For The Leafs On Their Quest for the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 23:55:12 -0400

The hockey season is over, and now comes the fun part for Leafs fans around the world. We know Brian Burke will not be sitting still over the next few weeks, as he will be squirming to land junior superstar Tavares.

Speaking of the draft, Luke Schenn's younger brother would do well in a Leafs uniform.

But the real fun part will be determining whether either Heatley or Lacavalier will look better in a Leafs uniform. Or both. Call me crazy, but the team - and the fans - can afford them.

Burke has quite a bucket full of young defensemen, such as Phil Oreskovic, Jaime Sifers, and Anton Stralman, to dip into. But if Burke is looking to strengthen the front lines, then that makes a few of our Marlies expendable: Kris Newbury, Ryan Hamilton, Jeremy Williams, and Ben Ondrus.

The Leafs took on a few extra salaries, courtesy of Tampa Bay, toward the end of this past season, so it makes me wonder what Burke has up his sleeve. Lacavalier will double his salary in sponsorship and endorsements in Toronto. Even his awful driving record will not eclipse Heatley's pair of 50+ goal seasons.

Kaberle, as I've stated, would benefit from a change of scenery.

Burke has already brought about some decent coaching help for our young goalies in Francois Allaire. This makes it seem like a reasonable assumption that Gerber will now backstop Toskala while Pogge is tuned up.

Is anyone else debating in the pubs and on the patios what might be in store for us this fall...?

Brian Burke's Latest Changes: Maple Leafs On the Road to The Cup?

Graeme Boyce — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 19:57:05 -0400

So, here we go again. Another playoffs of no concern. Next year, the Leafs will contend for the Cup, and will do it due to the heroic efforts of a goalie and a sniper. I liked Gerber down the stretch, and hopefully Cujo will return next year in a managerial capacity for the team. I'll be happy to see Toskala prove me wrong, and deliver excellence for us. That said, I'm not convinced he's the man.

Okay - good news! Schenn and White are playing for Canada which reinforces the fact that the Leafs will look good on the blue line; along with Van Ryn, Frogren, Finger, and even Harrison (if they stay), alongside Kubina and Kaberle.

I really liked the play of Stapleton and Mitchell toward the end of the season, by the way. Hagman did well too, but for the money and despite his head injury, I still expected more. I wanted Jamal Mayers to really shine on the ice for The Leafs, but overall he was a let down.

I point my finger at Jamal - though in fact he did offer more in the latter part of the season - for not delivering. Notwithstanding the goals Toskala let in, he was okay. Though people will argue it was his injury that ultimately led to yet another disastrous season for the Leafs.

Viktor Stalberg, a 23-year-old native of Gothenburg, Sweden, was selected by the Maple Leafs in the sixth round, 161st overall, in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. He was finally signed today. As well, the hockey club also signed free agent left-winger Robert Slaney to a three-year, entry level contract. This evening Burke will sign away some talent to get a decent draft pick.

To be a playoff contender, the Maple Leafs need a sniper, and I know a young dude like Tavares would look good in Blue and White. A few players like Boyd Devereaux, Matt Stajan and Lee Stempniak, are all on thin ice, and inevitably Burke will make way for Hamilton, Hanson and Kulemin. I wonder if Grabovski will be around. I hope May sticks around - he deserves it -and given his performance, and I'm sucking it in here - so does Ponikarovsky.

Go Jays Go.

Toronto Maple Leafs Seek Sniping Finisher on the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 21:36:22 -0400

It's not so bad being a Maple Leafs fan heading into the tailend of the season and it seems the team won't have beaten the Habs enough this year to secure a berth in the Cup finals.

However, the Maple Leafs have been fun to watch and are certainly winning their fair share of games lately due to some inspired play from John Mitchell, Jeff Hamilton and Jason Blake up front. The latter in fact has scored quite a few decent goals lately, worthy of mentioning, and good to see 25+ goals this year.

Martin Gerber is standing tall between the pipes since being picked up, and without Kaberle, Van Ryn or Frogren, Ian White and Pavel Kubina have really picked up the slack on defense.

But these days a young fella named Phil Oreskovic is really impressing me, while Luke Schenn and Jeff Finger have been simply rock solid.

However, Leafs management should hire Tie Domi to give in-yer-face toughness lessons to Mitchell, Hamilton and Blake, in my humble opinion, and it'd be money well spent. It's interesting to speculate as to why Ponikarovsky is blossoming all of a sudden. Too little too late.

I also think Grabovski will go the way of Godynyuk, Antropov, Borschevsky, Yushkevich, Yakushin, Khristich, Mogilny, Berezin, Kondratiev, Markov and Korolev, to name a few.

I mentioned early in the season that Kulemin merely had to take control of a nice little snapshot, and I'd have to say he's been looking good in these last few weeks; gaining confidence each step of the way.

Jamal Mayers is finally showing some jump in his game and delivering some grit, and leadership, as well as Brad May (finally) and Devereaux, as a respected veteran who paid his dues this year.

Hopefully, Matt Stajan will provide some spunk in the last few weeks, and ensure his future with the team by scoring a few more goals and maybe evening out his +/- stat.

I don't know how many more perfect shots Stempniak can possibly take aimed directly at the opposing goalie before one of those goalies finally falls over and lets one in.

On the team next year I'd like to see the impact of guys like Ondrus and Newbury, but I see Tlusty is gearing up for training camp and a shot at staying on the team next year... unless of course Burke swings the Sedin twins.

This would answer the sniper question, the finisher they don't have at the moment. I keep seeing it in players, flashes around the net from time to time, but no finish. So I'm banking on Lecavalier.

There's a reason Burke took the salaries of Tampa players resting in the infirmary for the remainder of the season.

If not, I'd take Mike Cammalleri, Tim Connolly, Marty Reasoner or Kyle Calder if they're still available this summer. Toronto will beat Washington, who are next up, btw. I predicted a thrashing of the Habs.

The Leafs, if anything, are entertaining and fun to watch these days. The victory against Tampa last week was a gem, though throwing away the lead almost killed me.

Edmonton Oilers Set To Tango Against New-Look Leafs on Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 19:27:21 -0500

The wait is over and the new-look Leafs have hit the ice, and won a game, without needing to go into overtime. They looked good, shutting down the Capitals and scoring opportunistically late in the third to seal it, notwithstanding the typical cliffhanger at the end, after several missed empty-netters.

The pre New-Look Leafs almost beat New Jersey the other night, and now the team look forward to the Saturday night tilt against the Oilers. It promises to be interesting, from the perspective that the Oilers are supposedly big and fast, yet lost earlier in the season to the mighty Old-Look Leafs.

The deadline day changes to The Leafs are not what I was hoping for, but I like Mayers lately, as well as Devereaux, Mitchell and Van Ryn.

The latter, a shining addition this season, augments a solid defensive group: Frogren, White, Finger and Schenn, not to mention the offensive wizardry of Kubina over the past few weeks.

I don't think the injured newcomers, Heward and Reitz, for example, will be posing much of a threat for playing time on the blue line.

However, this seriously must leave Kaberle expendable, or at least time to heal certainly before trading season is re-opened and Burke continues the re-tooling on the way to The Cup.

Wonderfully, it seems Gerber has something to prove, and based on his poise against Washington (well until there was about 30 seconds left in the game) I think he's going to over-perform down the stretch and surely we'll see Pogge thrown in, certainly learning from an interesting collection of mentors, if you throw Kolzig into the mix.

Then there's Stapleton and Hamilton who are tossed into the fray. The latter looked awesome tucked alongside Blake and Mitchell, but the latter has been looking even better skating circles around defensemen lately.

It seems confidence abounds nowadays and the fun is back, which thus brings into the spotlight our favourite little speedy man: Grabovski. I like him though and think he adds spark—some pizzazz is entertaining after all—and besides, a little razzle dazzle here and there will easily inspire a teammate on the bench.

I don't know whether Grabovski fits into the Burke model of a Cup winning team, but I'd keep him around with Kulemin, though I'd add Blake and thus we'd have The KGB Line to cheer on to The Cup. In the meantime, Leafs 6, Oilers 2.

Nik Antropov, Alexei Ponikarovsky Remain with Maple Leafs on the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:29:52 -0500

Well, with Trade Deadline looming, I'm beginning to believe that neither Nik Antropov nor Alexei Ponikarovsky are moving any time soon, though I'd love to see the former shipped out in exchange for Pronger. Apparently it's a sellers market. In my humble opinion, and I've said it before, Brian Burke should package a gutsy blockbuster trade, which would include Tomas Kaberle and Scott Niedermayer.

Nonetheless, after having stopped by a few Leafs-friendly pubs this past week, many fans are without too much difficulty entertaining the prospect of a Maple Leafs team that does not feature the so-called Twin Towers. As the team closes out a disastrous year, injuries to Van Ryn and Finger will put the pressure on the young blueliners: Sifers and Schenn, and certainly Stralman if Kubina ships out.

Speaking of bringing it up a notch, Ian White has had a really good year, and I wouldn't trade him, but he'd admittedly be an asset to any playoff bound team, not to mention both Dominic Moore and Matt Stajan. But I wouldn't trade them either. Notwithstanding the Leafs' vikings Frogren and Hagman, who have been instrumental in the Leafs victories lately, playing with a ton 'o spunk night after night, I'd trade the Euros. Surely Bates Battaglia couldn't do any worse.

Since Kaberle's injury, the team hasn't really fared that badly. Although Grabovski isn't ending the season on a high note, unless something radical happens...so, as a truly talented youngster, Burke should trade him now along with Kulemin. There's been nothing wrong with their play this year but I'd just be curious what they might fetch and get the deal done, in addition to some Marlies.

If the Maple Leafs had an NHL calibre goalie the team would be in the playoffs this year. It's uncanny how many opposing teams can tie the Maple Leafs in the dying moments of a game. Some might argue the team's defense was letting the goalies down on a talent-starved team, but it's not true. Any shot, at any time, can end up in the Leafs net with Toskala or Cujo between the pipes.

The Maple Leafs with Wilson at the helm but without bonafide all-stars, like Pittsburgh, are winning on any given night. But take out a few Euros and bring up a few players like Kris Newbury and Ben Ondrus, and trade Toskala for any decent goalie. Well, with the injuries to Mitchell and Hagman, the choices are few and far between.

It seems management enjoys and is stocking the new winning team with Americans... like Tim Stapleton, augmenting the power duo of Blake and Stemniak. Trade 'em all, I say. I'm ready. But the more the team gels, and continues to win, albeit in an unnecessary overtime or in—aghast—a shootout, I'm wondering if Burke is contemplating status quo. He says teams trading at the deadline make costly mistakes. Whew, now we know he won't make any mistakes.

Ottawa is coming to town. I relish the though of swiping one or two Senators in exchange for Kaberle, for example, in fact fresh after the game and after Kaberle has returned from his injury.

The one thing going for the Leafs is they are playing under the cap, and substantially, which would truly be attractive when augmenting the pitch along with endorsement fees for a superstar player.

Nick Kypreos and Gord Stellick Won't Help Leafs on the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:58:49 -0500

We're heading into another Leafs game, and we'll soon see whether the team will have what it takes to ice the cake, put the nail in the coffin and rub salt in the wound. Yes, they need to beat the Sabres, again. This is a game the Leafs should win. Recently they've beaten Montreal and Pittsburgh. They should be playing like lions.

Unfortunately, this is a team in flux. Burke is talking about trading any player on the team, which is fun to talk like this, so he let's us appreciate a deal might be on the way. But a player here and a player there? If we listen to the pundits, it knocks my socks off to hear no one is speaking in terms of blockbuster trade. Burke is talking about trading Schenn. Cool. Let's go.

Boston and Philadelphia are competing to take Kaberle, and Moore is worthless say Kypreos and Stellick. Interesting points. Earlier in the day, Kaberle says he's set to remain in Toronto.

Over the years certain Leafs players under the media spotlight have had to admit their shortcomings along the way, and from time to time broadcasters need to admit their shortcomings too, a la Nick Kypreos talking about speed and Justin Pogge. If only Kypreos could've moved side to side a little more quickly when he was a player on his last night as a player.

Then again speaking of Gord Stellick, after a stellar career in broadcasting, how many years or was it months that he was in fact good enough to be called a general manager at the NHL level? Yet, we are to take his opinion seriously. Kypreos had his chance. He's worse than Bob Cole. Stellick? I don't know how he got his job in the first place - I mean wasn't he an usher?

Kaberle will stay on the team. But will Antropov remain with the team to walk away into the free agent market, completely unrestricted? I think so, unless Burke trades him, along with Kaberle. But not for Bouwmeester. Pogge is being showcased against the Sabres. He's gone. Along with Cujo and Toskala. The Leafs need a sniper.

Leafs 3, Sabres1.

Jason Blake, Maple Leafs Set To Stymie Sidney Crosby on the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 10:54:44 -0500

I thought this past week would go down in Leafs history coming off a wonderful victory in Montreal. I thought the Leafs would sail past both Florida's teams and the team would be set to steamroll over the Pens tonight.

Alas, it was not meant to be. I can only imagine how dangerous the Leafs would be, thinking back to Coach Wilson's preseason comments related to the speed of the team, if they could ever go on a winning streak.

Winning is contagious. A winning attitude is infectious. A barroom buddy stated the other day the Leafs are sadly lacking in the "players who have won a Cup" department. This, of course, is the Leafs age-old problem and it's one of balance. The fans love an exciting game of hockey—whether a good pummeling here or a OT victory there—and pay dearly for the price of being a Leafs fan.

The balance needs to exist on many levels, not just on the ice but in the locker room and in the way the players treat each other, on a purely social level. I have to wonder how many of the Leafs these days are so-called drinking buddies, for example. It's a stretch, I suppose, in these days of programmed health regimens. But you likely understand what I'm talking about. To score a goal is just another day at the office, and wait for the paycheque.

So, in order to beat the Pens and all other team, as it was so aptly shown to us this past week, and as I have pointed out once or twice before, The Leafs need to simply keep the puck out of our own zone. Yes, for a brief moment, I really thought Cujo was the Calvary riding in to save the season against the Bolts the other night. Alas, it was not meant to be.

The Leafs need a new goalie tandem and that's a huge priority for Burke—and I hope he's good enough to recognize that no Leafs fans in the world would keep Toskala after his night-after-night brainless performance this season. Cujo is too old now, and should accept an early retirement with grace. I'd honestly rather roll with Pogge for the rest of the season.

On defence, Sifers is steady and I trust will be kept on the team, and in this regard I think the Leafs have a decent defense core, if Van Ryn can get back on the ice, and if Finger can take a few more shots—talk about a player with lacking confidence—though he is one player who likely is stepping up in the locker room. Playing on a losing team, as long time fans can appreciate, will not do Schenn any good at all.

Thus, Burke needs to bring in some scoring touch, bluntly. Over the years, various Leafs managers have shipped out some really great young Canadian players, and for the life of me I can't understand how Antropov has stayed on the team, or the other Twin Tower. I know. I know, we keep hearing about the season they are having and the potential they have—too late, I say. They're gone.

I heard Moore might be considered for the Captain's job. At the beginning of the season my vote was for Mayers, but I wouldn't mind rewarding Moore. He's smart and he's talented, and seems to be giving it his all for the team night after night. I think he embodies the passion that is not consistently delivered by his teammates, especially Blake.

I can't figure out Blake. But I think he just got lucky while with the Isles, and maybe Yashin was that good after all. he'll be gone next year. Luckily this, thus, is then his incentive, like many before him, to play well only to up his value and get traded to another team with short-term playoff dreams.

Any team can win the Cup, even the Leafs, and they could win the Cup this year, if they would only win every game from now on...starting with the Pens tonight!

Leafs 4, Pens 3.

Alex Rodriguez Won't Help Leafs on The Way To The Cup

Graeme Boyce — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 19:16:17 -0500

The Leafs need to win tonight, and tomorrow night and the night after. They need to win all their remaining games, and if they do will hence win the Cup. Simple strategy, if you ask me. Along comes luck and timing to impose their will. Hagman isn't playing the same way since coming back, and it's tragic to see what is happening to Van Ryn's career, especially in light of The Lindros Revelations.

The Leafs have been playing quite well lately, despite the occasional letdown, and look to teach the Panthers tonight a lesson. McCabe, et al, got lucky last time out. I think The Leafs are rebounding and finding the confidence they were missing for the majority of the season. Too little too late, in order to finish atop the heap, but it's about parity... combined with luck and timing that is winning games and championships these days.

Toskala is still a gamble, a challenge. It's something the Leafs can afford to change and I'd rather see a change in goal immediately and I'd rather a rookie be given a Palmateer-esque chance; committed and dedicated, moreso entertaining and mostly effective. I suppose if change is coming it's not coming in the form of Manny Legace. It's obvious they could retire Cujo any time.

Jason Blake really is starting to impress on the ice. I can't talk to his attitude in the locker room, but he's leading the team with his timely increase in goal production lately. Grabovsky is picking it up in the consistency department, but I'm looking for a breakout game from Kulemin against the Panthers.

I'm keeping my eye on Sifers, as well as White, who needs another goal tonight. I predict a powerplay goal from Kubina to top off my prediction of a big win!

Maple Leafs Visit Montreal on the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 16:58:03 -0500

I wonder if part of the Leafs' strategy to win the Cup is simply one based on confusion. Sign some players, add a coach or two, and see what happens. Sounds like if anyone could do that then they could also run an American bank and get back a few mil each year, regardless of their performance.

Well, someone one has done that—in fact several general managers who attract talent and negotiate contracts have delivered unto Toronto one of the most confusing teams I've ever had the pleasure of watching.

On Saturday, the Leafs will tussle with the Habs, and with a lucky bounce here and a lucky bounce there, the Leafs will win. We know Antropov and Poni will try a little and will set the bar for the rest of the team. After all, other than Blake, they're the team's top offensive producers.

We know most Leafs wingers will either (a) dump in the puck and chase it, or (b) upon crossing the blue line, slam on the brakes and determine which of their linemates miraculously got into the open.

Kubina's playing well. Kubina playing his best, however, is still ensuring a second-round draft pick in exchange. Unless Burke gets ballsy and assembles the uber-trade deal, and in one clean sweep tosses out the bathwater and the baby in the hopes of landing Crosby.

Yes, Sid the Kid can't do anymore for the Pens, as long as he's playing with Malkin, but imagine his endorsement deals if he did as little playing in Toronto.

Everyone likes to carve on the Leafs as another season unfolds and the team is befouled as completely ineffective, but for one brief moment take a look at Ottawa or Colorado, not to mention any team playing in the southeastern states these days.

I say it's time for a shake-up. Would the Pens do any worse without Crosby, yet with such high-flying twin towers like Antropov and Poni on the team and Kaberle and Kubina on the blue line?

I think either Erik Cole or Jay Bouwmeester, or both, would look good in the blue and white. So would Scott Hannan, Colby Armstroing, and Vincent Lecavalier. OK, I can't see Ottawa letting Heatley go now. After all, he's leading his team in goals scored; but I'll bet Spezza would do quite well scoring goals for the Leafs.

First things first: beating Montreal.

Well, they are luckily in turmoil due to their own trade rumours flying around. Apparently, they are trying to fill Lang's skates. They'd take, for example, the Stars' Brad Richards, who happens to be leading his team in scoring. Well, so is Blake...So we can't take too much stock in that stat, can we?

I've heard Blake is simply untradeable, yet he's the Leafs' leading goal scorer—surely someone as hockey-savvy as Brian Burke can spin it properly.

With Toskala hurt and destined for a trip to the hospital to repair his groin, Manny Legace, an all-star goalie, is available. But speaking of untradeable, I'm sure Gretzky thought he was untradeable prior to donning a Kings sweater way back when.

Toronto Maple Leafs Set to Enjoy Super Bowl on the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 17:07:45 -0500

It's the $64,000 question with specific reference to Doug Gilmour and who today might possibly fill those very special skates...night after night for the Leafs on the way to the Cup...only to be robbed by Kerry Fraser. Within two years of his arrival and, in fact, the only two years with the Leafs, he came the closest to leading the team to drink from the Cup since 1967.

There's no reason to believe that with a healthy team, it's possible to win by magically balancing youthful and veteran ambition with skill, energy, and effort; combined with and a lucky shot here or a lucky bounce there together with a timely hit, simple mistake, or a great save. The more wins the merrier, and any combination makes it all exciting year after year.

Luke Schenn is certainly improving, delivering skilled poise night after night and having fun doing so. Criticism is fueling his improvement. He apparently enjoys and accepts criticism easily—and has a confident calmness in his interviews, which makes it exciting when he finally decides to fight—always preferring to understand the benefits of natural ability to augment the coaches and trainers at his disposal as he matures under fire. The Leafs are doing well to protect their asset and groom him accordingly.

Last year, I commented that perhaps the Penguins should consider Kaberle and Kubina in exchange for Malkin. I was about to say the Leafs would never part ways with Schenn, never ever, but then I thought perhaps dangling Schenn together with a few other veterans for Crosby, a deal that would benefit both teams immediately. Playoff bound-challenged Penguins are living proof that chemistry is as important as skill.

I think the Steelers are going to win the Super Bowl because of their character. Though the spirit of Tilman is likely inspiring the Cardinals this season.

Speaking of character, heroic characters and Doug Gilmour, the Leafs need an uplift in the character department. Brad May needs to deliver some thundering hits: shoulder, hip, or fist.

Our Vikings Holman and Frogren—though the latter is a healthy scratch—obviously are slumping, despite a team without All-Star Kaberle again beating the Penguins following the tossing aside of the Rockies in a good tilt, and in spite of Toskala too.

In fact, Toskala is driving me crazy, in such a fun way. like gambling or wasting your time. In this case though, I never know who's going to win a Leafs game these days. I used to know: No matter whichever team the Leafs played against, they might just win. Great games just appear. Not now. It's an equation of shots. Thus, as happened last year, when the team keeps the opposing shot total low, the odds of winning goes up.

It's nice to see our Twin Towers, Antropov and Ponikarovsky, regaining the scoring touch...just in time for the close of trading season. I don't mind the underdog story, like the Giants beating the Patriots in the Super Bowl last year.

Over the years, the Leafs have consistently been seen as underdogs in games against teams loaded down with bonafide stars, like Malkin and Crosby who are leading 1-2 the scoring race among NHL players this season.

It's funny to think the Leafs' All-Star is Karberle. I can only imagine there are many players out there—young and old—who grew up as Leafs fans are dying to take on that role and prove his worth to get to exalted level. Dominic Moore might fit into that category, and maybe Matt Stajan. Brian Burke is set to make changes, and I expect within a month less European and more Canadian flavour.

Little Blake is making an impact and maybe simply setting an example on the ice recently. If anyone has anything to prove in the twilight of his career, it'd be him. A 40-goal would get the Leafs quite close to the playoffs this year.

Alas, where does he lie in the production department at the moment? Ripping it up at 17 goals. Not bad, but not excellent, providing thus a truly outstanding or phenomenal year.

In a nutshell, while the Leafs reflect on their next game against the Panthers, they contemplate heroes on the field and of the bravery demanded and duty expected. Not for anyone else but themselves; true professionalism underscores the value of success, which is contingent upon several factors the least of which is maintaining calm under pressure. I see that attribute in Schenn, and I hear he has a younger brother.

Maple Leafs Acquire Another Local Youngster and Lose to Bruins on the Way to Cup

Graeme Boyce — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 11:04:49 -0500

I swear if the Leafs were facing an empty net during a shoot out the team would find a way to hit the post or miss completely. I'll give credit to Coach Wilson for giving the young guys a shot last night. But this recent game against the Bruins, before the vaunted All-Star break and a week long rest (for our now-aging Leafs), should've been won in the dying moments, frankly. However, Leafs' sharpshooters, incredibly, found a way to miss.

On a positive note, despite a point gained, the next team we're facing, the Wild, we just robbed so there is hope on the horizon. We offered Robbie Earl, who is having a disastrous season on the Marlies, for a big and local dude Ryan Hamilton. I can tell you this, courtesy of a friend living in Barrie, when our newly acquired Hamilton was playing a few years ago for the Colts, he was an inspiration night after night. In fact he led the team in scoring in his final year there.

I'll add, though, the few games I did see Earl play last year when called up, he provided some decent hits and a lot of energy. I liked him and thought he'd break through this year, but maybe he got a girlfriend, 'cuz he's surely not producing on the ice for us.

Speaking of not producing, I can't believe how frustrating it is to watch these Leafs this past month. On one hand they play well against the injured Bruins, and let them catch up, and then can't finish around the net in those aforementioned dying moments, or in overtime. I thought Brad May might in fact provide some leadership not only in the locker room, but more importantly on the bench.

May is simply not providing any punch on the ice; neither with his fists, his stick or his mouth. Also, as I stated before, Tlusty needs some time with the Marlies. Stempniak has scored a couple lately, and now must be feeling comfortable, but at this stage of the game I'm not sure if this is a good thing or not.

Lately, as well, again on a positive note, I'm seeing some great three-way playmaking leaving the zone and individual skills are shining through players like Grabovski, Moore, and White who are each continuing to solidify a role on the Burke-era Leafs, despite their size.

I'm off to Cuba for the All-Star break, and hopefully will return fully rejuvenated and ready for the Leafs run for the Cup.

Toronto Maple Leafs to Face Struggling 'Canes on the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 15:13:18 -0500

The other day Maple Leafs fans were hoping that Jason Blake would repeat his five-point game and lead the team, possibly inspire the team.

After scoring three early goals, the Leafs were well on their way to a punishing victory against the Thrashers. Grabovski was returning from his league-imposed rest and all looked rosy for a feisty, if not electrifying, game.

These days we hear how, since arriving, Blake has been not-so-appreciated in the locker room. More importantly, Blake cannot be traded.

He was part of a loss that was tough to swallow. The Leafs should have won the game. I, along with a few other witnesses, saw the result of letting players skate or fly by.

I can understand momentary lapses of reason, and goals as a result of being simply out-played, but as a result of laziness is a bit much. These guys are professionals, after all.

I propose this trade today: Kaberle and Kubina for Cory Hodgson.

New players gelling nicely these days include the May, Mayers and Mitchell line. Speaking of lines, Antropov is unfortunately not doing so well lately, to be polite.

I did some chatting at the pub lately, and these are the theories: He's simply overrated and overpaid, he's saving himself from injury in the hopes of a trade, or he's lazy and thus easily checked by opposing players.

Regardless of engaging teams who are struggling and mired in a losing streak, and opportunistically thinking about somehow taking advantage of depression, the Leafs have always been squarely instructed to focus on their hard work game plan.

As a process defined by coaches and technical staff employed to ensure the success of the plan, executed by players, The Leafs should systematically win each game.

The Leafs are facing off against Carolina tonight, and I predict the team will win. They will win because they'll win for the coach.

They really let Coach Wilson down the other night, giving up four successive goals to enable the dramatic come-from-behind loss, and had incredibly almost done the same thing against Carolina.

The 'Canes will come out hard. They know the Leafs typically have been slow to wake up this year, and have clearly demonstrated it by giving up early leads, and lately, then giving up a huge lead.

Here we go again.

If Hagman, one of the Leafs' two Vikings (the other being Frogren), scores first, then he'll be tied for the team goal-scoring race. We all know it's not a race, of course, as these players give 110 percent each and every shift, from the veterans whom we expect so much more from, on down to our vaunted rookies.

Scoring is a matter of chance, and can only occur based on puck possession and puck movement, from one end of the rink to the other, with a goal the result.

Alexei Ponikarovski leads the team in goals scored.

Over the last five games he has graced us with one goal, against Philadelphia, yet still enjoys playing over 20 shifts and 15+ minutes a game.

Antropov is leading the team with total points, averaging less than a point a game.

Maybe trading players is all about the spin, after all. Maybe Burke simply has to position Poni and Antropov as our leading players and highly valuable, team leaders, veteran playmakers... and proven scorers.

Surely the Leafs can attract a star player, one possibly underachieving this season, who will make oodles more in sponsorship and endorsement monies than playing in Nashville or Tampa Bay.

Back to possession and what makes a star a star.

As far as statistics go, I'm sure someone will one day verify that a game was won despite the team not having possession of the puck as long as the opposition. Luck and skill balanced.

Blake certainly proved the quantity versus quality equation last season, shooting the puck at the net a lot, and earning a defining stat (Shots On Goal), does not equate to goals scored.

I wonder what his percentage of shots versus points was against Carolina when he got his incredible five?

Again, Blake has an opportunity to repeat tonight, as does White who scored the other night too. I'd like to see him get a goal a game.

He needs to take a lesson from Yvan Cournoyer and (based on a CBC profile I saw when I was a kid) buy a whack of ultra-heavy pucks and practice taking shots every day in the summer. Well, that assumes White takes the summer off.

Stempniak and Moore continue to gel, and really need consistency from Blake in order to achieve career seasons.

Stempniak will begin to score, as he seems energized lately, and Moore should, by good fortune, be scoring more goals. As veterans, they should be picking up their games going into the latter stages of the season.

The veterans all, in a cynical view, would realize the most lucrative part of the season is upon them. This is their walk down the runway, for all to see.

They offer sizzle, great entertainment value, great passes and, most importantly, great goals.

The latter creates demand: "I want him on my team." Demand enables cash.

The Leafs management might do well by offering joint deals with coveted players, perhaps including as a package deal those aforementioned rights (sponsorship and endorsement) along with appearance fees, etc, as well as equity in new ventures.

In fact it's likely that the Leafs can attract quality players by expressing a vision that not only includes a Stanley Cup, but a fully commercialized and monetized run.

Leafs 4, Carolina 2.

Enhancing value every step of the way.

Toronto Maple Leafs: Bay Street Bullies to Punish Flyers on the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 19:56:09 -0500

Just when I thought the Leafs had hit rock bottom with a disastrous December, they open January by being soundly thumped, thrice; first by the Sabres, which was followed by a jolly good win against the Senators, then by the Panthers, and finally by the Canadiens.

Next up? The Flyers. This is a team that back in the mid-80s was truly enjoyable to watch, only due to their ability to create mayhem and infamy, known collectively as the rather legendary Broad Street Bullies.

Now when I think of the Flyers, I think of Jeff Carter and how he might have made a fine addition to the Leafs these days, if only Kaberle had acquiesced to move along. Our vaunted defenseman wouldn't then, merely a year ago, but now says if the manager doesn't want him and does not respect him as a player, then move him along please.

He's gone, make no mistake about it, and so is Toskala—well, okay I'm simply wishing he'll be gone sooner. I can't stand to see the Leafs get thumped again.

I referenced in my headline bullies, however, only with respect to Grabovski. Maybe Hollweg will re-enter the lineup over the next three games, and I say, why not throw him into the match against Philly on Saturday.

Hopefully, Leafs trainers and coaches have an array of video clips featuring the lovely Bob Kelly and Dave "the Hammer" Shultz, or even Bobby Clarke to show and inspire our young and talented Deveaux. I believe the Leafs' investment in May is one being made in Deveaux in fact.

There's a wonderful element of intimidation that will legitimately enable teams to win games on the way to the Cup. Intimidating players challenge other players to go into the corners and scrum along the boards.

This is a defining brand characteristic of the North American game, which stands opposed to the European style by its pure physicality. Players who can punish other players with a crushing body-check are incredibly valuable. This type of activity requires guts.

Intimidating players are not necessarily bullies, but they certainly create space on the ice with the ever-present opportunity to draw blood. I'd like to see Antropov or Poni create space.

I hear they're big guys, but no one in the NHL takes them too seriously. They're simply not a threat, in any way. I'm wondering who'll be Luke Schenn's first victim.

In the meantime, tough guy Kubina needs to step up. Does anyone know if Sifers is a scrapper? He seems solid enough, and keen, but I don't know if he's intimidating these days.

I like White. He's a fighter, but not in the scapper kind of way. Yet, we have seen him drop the gloves, once. But is he intimidating? Nope.

I'm not saying that if you're not intimidating then you're riding the AHL bus, but if I'm reading between the lines, the word "intimidating" is the word Burke is struggling to find when he gives his interviews.

This is the factor he admires. His teams evoke fear. They are feared. They are intimidating. They punish. Fearsome and intimidating teams win Stanley Cups.

Brad May Will Set the Standard for New Toronto Maple Leafs on the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 14:07:34 -0500

I've seen debacles. I've seen disappointments. Now I've seen annoying. Last night's game against the Panthers was incredible. An incredible waste of time. The Leafs should've crushed the Panthers. Here's a stat: the Leafs, trailing by two after the first period, have come back to win the game 25% of the time this season! Yes, I hoped, I really hoped, we'd beat McCabe and climb closer to a playoff berth in the process.

Then, a day later, came the announcement—the first of many coming down the pipe, be rest assured—that hard-hitting Brad May has joined the Leafs. He's a big veteran and a native of Toronto, and he played on GM Burke's Stanley Cup winning team in Anaheim. Currently, he has amassed 2,121 penalty minutes and 285 points (126 goals, 159 assists) in total. A new Battlin' Brad for the fans.

So, given this welcome addition, the first casualty is Kulemin. Down into the minors he goes for some further instruction and guidance. Kulemin is skilled, and as I've said before has a decent snapshot, but he needs some confidence in his game and some practice finishing around the net. Of course, now he'll be taking the bus to away games, not flying, so he's properly incented to improve.

As suspected, the Leafs team lacks leadership these days—and apparently Coach Wilson believes May is the toughguy to provide it, in the short-term (while we wait for a Captain), as his presence in the dressing room will be greatly appreciated. He's been there, done that. One can only imagine the lift he'll bring to the young guys, and likely instantly provide skating room for Stajan and Grabovski.

The latter must be relishing the thought of playing Montreal. In other news, Sifers sitting out with the return of Schenn. The Leafs other quite promising young defenseman Stralman was sent back to the Marlies last month, as was Newbury earlier this week. But back to Grabovski for a moment: what was he thinking in the game against McCabe and the Panthers skating circles in the offensive zone, beautifully, I might add, until he lost the puck near the blue line and providing a breakaway?

The Canadiens were also busy picking up a defensemen in anticipation of the Big Game against the Leafs: TJ Kemp from Pittsburgh. The team is well injured at the moment, including goalie Price. Oh well. Halak is struggling, as is their powerplay lately. Yet I'm simply wondering whether May will put Kostopoulos in his place...face first into the boards. Whoops. I mean deliver a clean hit that'll loosen the cobwebs.

I also wonder if Antropov will score a goal against Montreal, or ever again for the rest of the season. I can't believe Mr Invisible leads the Leafs in scoring. Hollweg had better step up to the plate and deliver some excitement, or he's heading out of town soon, not to mention Stempniak. The time required to "adjust" is over. Points please. If Antropov can do it, anyone can.

Leafs-Sens: Toronto Displays Passion Against Sens On the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 14:11:19 -0500

Let me first set the scene: I'm home alone. I just installed a hi-def TV with surround sound. On one channel are the Leafs and on another are the Bolts, and on the other (out of 500), the Canadian juniors are playing Russia.

But in this day and age we don't rely merely on TV for our sports, as the World Junior was also streamed live on-line...for free. I also had a few beers ready for the challenge.

On this night, in the intermission, Don Cherry finally called out the Leafs. Yup, he challenged them publicly, given in his estimation the players are letting themselves get 'beat up' in the corners and along the boards. He questioned their passion and their integrity. This opinion was backed up by a deftly edited montage of first-period action.

Oddly enough, when the Leafs finally play a balanced game, are solidly focused, and don't get intimidated by the "rough stuff," Cherry has an issue. On that note, despite the occasional scrum, I for one would love to see Antropov drop the gloves...Maybe more than the chance of seeing the Leafs win the Cup again.

Burke, according to our vaunted broadcasters, now must import the Anaheim team in order for us stakeholders to see a parade down Bay Street any time soon. But, as I pointed out the other day, both Atlanta and Ottawa are needing to make a trade, not to mention Florida as well. There's a lot of talent on the table, including a few juniors.

The Leafs players must always play on a bubble night after night, and under a microscope. So, let me be the first to point out: Stempniak is playing great with Blake, who almost scored a shorthanded goal, and more importantly Moore.

Mayers has stepped up his game and is now noticeably effective. It'll be a fulcrum move if he starts to score. But, of note, Mitchell is taken it up a notch playing with Antropov and Poni. The latter finally played with passion, by the way.

That brings up a dilemma. Stajan and Williams, who are both injured, alongside Deveaux and Schenn, have been adequately replaced. Though before going further, there is the small matter of Newbury's inspired play against the Sens, as well as that of Hollweg and Sifers.

So, let's recap, for the benefit of Don Cherry, Neil is not intimidating, Alfredsson is not dominating, and Heatley is invisible. While on the subject of so-called superstars, does Tavares make the Canadian Junior team? No.

And Toskala? He made the saves when he was supposed to. I would too if I were paid that much.

Maple Leafs Have Another Battle of Ontario Looming on the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 01:14:03 -0500

The Leafs are slumping. But heading towards Saturday night, we can get revved up at the thought of crunching Alfredsson, Heatley, and Spezza again. Frankly, the Sens are slumping too, which makes this upcoming tilt all the more special. I'm looking at it like tryouts.

C'mon, let's make a deal, soon. The Leafs could certainly use the services of Heatley, and while trolling I'd grab Fisher in a heartbeat too, who's not exactly having a career year, as they say.

If the Leafs had a player like Heatley, in fact, then (in the immortal words of HG Wells) we wouldn't have to play "what if" after each game. Like, what if Poni had scored. Or, what if Cujo made the save? Moreover, what if White didn't get that penalty? This doesn't take into account the fundamentals: What if the Leafs didn't get called for so many offsides or icings...?

By not taking the fundamentals into account, Leafs players are surely demonstrating a lack of focus and, worse, laziness. They are presumably well coached and well trained. They have ample access to Gatorade and can't blame it on "tired legs." Oh wait, they did after the debacle against the Stars recently.

Our so-called young Leafs should be playing like champs and proving themselves to fans and management, night after night. However, so should any player, come to think of it.

Against the other divisional slumpers, the Sabres, Coach Wilson gave an excellent opportunity to Hagman to prove his value and lead by example in handing him the job to score on a penalty shot. But he let the puck get out of reach and was deftly poke-checked by Miller. Hmmm, how 'bout two goalies for one? Toskala and Cujo for Miller?

I like the play of the Leafs' vikings Hagman and Frogren. I've said it before, and I'll say it again—they each play with heart and, dare I say it, passion. Hopefully this attitude is rubbing off on Grabovski and Kulemin, for example. It might be. These two rookies are starting to gel lately. If only they'd really start to click; you know, like Courtnall and Clark, or Vaive and Derlago.

I've mentioned Poni, but what is up with Antropov? Does he really miss Stajan that much? And Stempniak? They do the "dump 'n chase" thing quite well. Go figure, now they simply need to shoot—quickly and with authority. And not at the forsaken pads or protector. These guys are making it easy for Burke to line up a blockbuster trade.

Luckily other teams, in this wonderful age of parity when any team can win on any given night, are fraught with excuses as to why they might not make the playoffs this year. I'd certainly like to know if Pomenville or Roy are on the bubble. Maybe those two could get thrown into the upcoming goalie trade, in exchange for, say, Hollweg.

Maple Leafs-Sabres: Core Players on the Bubble Need to Perform

Graeme Boyce — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 03:57:39 -0500

Coach Wilson has been quite blunt in interviews regarding the players he has been given, and how they are performing, and whether they might be around next year.

As the team prepares to face the Sabres, here's a few names likely to remain as Leafs in the foreseeable future: Grabovski, Kulemin, Schenn, Moore, and Hagman.

Antropov might remain, so might Mitchell. Williams is simply inconsistent, according to the coach, as I'm sure most fans would agree.

Realistically, the score the other night against the Thrashers should have been 10-1. Prior to the game the coach reinforced his early message:

Get the puck to the net—which is nothing revolutionary, especially when listening to Don Cherry speak between periods each Saturday night.

Last week I thought White was really due for a goal, and over the past few games he's been trying, delivering quite a few wicked and timely shots to the net—unfortunately directed at goalie pads and chest protectors.

He's not in the doghouse, but it's be nice to see him get one every now and again. I'd like to see him remain.

Stempniak and Blake have been showing some decent skills on the rush lately, and finally finishing. But speaking of finishing, and I'm sure you'll agree, we witnessed one of the prettiest goals for a Leaf in a long time the other night—as Grabovski scooted through the defence and fed a pass back to a trailing Kulemin.

Wow. Nice.

I'm a bit fan of the snapshot, and over the years cringe when I see our defensemen winding up for a slapper. I don't mind the slapshot coming in from the blueline during a power play, but while screaming down the wing doesn't make sense to me.

But Kubina can obviously let one go, and score, every now and then with a slapshot.

Williams is injured, and up comes Tlusty, and I don't know if Deveaux has a future with the Leafs...which brings me to Cujo.

I'm glad he got a win this season, his 450th, but his playing days are numbered. Against the Sabres, a game he gets to start, having said that he'll need to be consistent, which is what the coach (and we fans) want from the players in order to win each game down the stretch.

Tlusty has his moments of flash. However, I'd like to see his nose get bloodied, in a way we noticed Grabovski earlier in the season. Tlusty seems like a floater, but he must have been doing something right on the Marlies these days to get the call-up, as opposed to either Bell or Earl.

So, I'm now going to have a few beers and watch the outdoor game with a few pals in this New Year and warm up for the real match tonight.

Leafs Attempt Critical Corner against Caps on Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 14:12:43 -0500

A few days ago, and a mere week after the debacle in Boston, we saw yet another debacle as the Leafs went down to defeat against the last place Islanders and a few days before that the Leafs were soundly clobbered by the Stars. All Leafs fans knew (and were expecting) a clobbering, due to the road trip and their collective sore legs, and all hope for a victory was quickly dashed in the opening minutes.

The debacle in Long Island proved statistics mean nothing. Any team can win on any night.

So, onto Washington. And Alexander Ovechkin. The teams played recently and the Caps won, but it was close. Prior to this game, the hometown team was also honouring a former Leafs speedster, Mike Gartner. This could only serve as inspiration. Oddly, it did seem like Grabovski was inspired out of the gate—though likely for another reason: Ovechkin. I doubt they like each other.

Hagman scored a beauty to open it up, a real nice pick in the top corner off a broken play. Yet "broken" only because in the confusion Grabovski caused controlling the puck deep all opposition eyes were on him and not Hagman who was patrolling near the circle. Perhaps like a shark.

Luckily, for all concerned, Toskala did not let the first shot in, and played well throughout the first, without the threat of Pogge ensuring his dismissal.

The Leafs were not thinking about the previous two (or three) debacles, nor thinking about upcoming games against the Thrashers or Sabres. Nope. They were off to a good start and quite focused on the task at hand: beating the Capitals in their own vaunted arena. Especially Ovechkin.

Too bad about Stajan, yet I was truly hoping Mayers would step up, or Williams. However, it seems the latter has now been taking shooting lessons from Antropov. In the first period, the Leafs should have gone up 2-0, but Williams shot it into the chest of Theodore. Nonetheless, despite this, the game progressed nicely.

Kulemin was finally showing some spark, since the outset of the season when he offered some serious promise. After the debacles, maybe he was told to. With Schenn still down (due to Ovechkin), it is refreshing to see a new defender, Sifers, come in and replace the injured budding star.

As a Leafs fan, given our history over the years, you can really see a goal coming a mile away in the dreaded dying seconds of any period... so, as the Leafs were flubbering around in our own end as the second was coming to a close, who else was causing havoc in the span of 10 seconds? Ovechkin.

Yes, a puck that went right through Toskala. That shot set the scene for the third.

After getting a goal against the lowly Islanders the other night, Stempniak needed to keep his scoring streak alive. Getting away with a little goalie interference in the second likely helped. He had his chances, so did Grabovski. Stempniak and Grabovski need to shoot more, and on the net.

Blake should have come through though at the end of the day. I predict Deveaux and Williams are not going to stick around much longer, nor Kulemin—but the players who I thought let the team down were Kaberle and Kubina. I am not going to mention the play of Antropov, or should I say Mr. Invisible. Actually, I think Poni had a better game.

Kaberle never demonstrates "brilliance" (yes, there is an occasional decent rush, and an occasional decent shot, but surely tossing the puck out from behind the net to a rushing forward late in the game is simply bone-headed. Not since the days of Bob McGill playing back there have I seen a gaffe like that.

Kubina needs to learn (a) to deliver the snapshot, and (b) stop taking penalties. When Schenn comes back, I would keep Sifers up and deal Kubina in a heartbeat. In the meantime, we are back home for four straight and first welcome the Thrashers, then the Sabres.

So, we will be out of this minor slump soon enough.

Dallas a Challenge For Leafs on The Way To The Cup

Graeme Boyce — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 08:02:08 -0500

Gee, by a quirk of groin-enabled fate, there's not much to complain about. As predicted, the Leafs thrashed the Thrashers and Justin Pogge is indeed a welcome addition (like Jamie Sifers, Jeremy Williams and Mark Bell) who provides a decent challenge to Vesa Toskala's rein.

Sorry to throw in Bell, but from time to time we need reminding who also might be a welcome addition. I'd drop Nik Kulemin. He's doing Okay, but I say why not take the chance and drop in another Marlie, like Bell. There was a moment in the pre-season where I was calling him as the captain.

Sifers is doing very well. Andre Deveaux is not though. He seems to be coasting, often needing to be jostled into action. Bench him. That's right—I think a judicious use of the bench is a good thing. Certainly seemed to have worked well in Leafland this year.

It's nice to see both Nik Antropov and the Alex Poni are doing well, but I still think more is to be delivered from these two, given their price tag. Matt Stajan, however, is having a great year, and I think Lee Stempniak is coming around the corner. Thus, I predict a great game against the Stars for Lee tonight.

Yet traditionally we don't fare well against the Stars. It'll be a good game—the last one before the break—and one as a barometer of character, especially at this point in the season—more or less a turning point. No matter who gets traded next month.

Perhaps a year from now we might wonder what was wrong with this current roster of MLSE product. After all, they are winning. I mean it might not be logically possible to improve a winning team, despite the clarion call surrounding Brian Burke and the impending changes in personnel.

The Leafs have some good trade bait, if required. If there are going to be trades, and I'm assuming if they happen that they will improve the team, then I hope they are considered 'blockbuster' trades. I haven't seen one in a while, so the timing might be right in the grand scheme of things.

It's nice to see Pogge wearing the 29. Wasn't I just mentioning Palmateer the other day? Pogge has come up at a good time. The team is really playing well, even Jason Blake. He could be more effective if he were simply more abrasive, but he too seems to need wakening up from time to time.

Leafs TV commentators are a lot better than CBC. I'm enjoying four stations broadcasting The Leafs, with the other two being SportsNet and TSN—and specifically the diverse array of comments from all the personnel. The other day we were recalling the day when each Wednesday night was The Leafs on CHCH, and whereas every Saturday saw The Leafs on CBC.

I'm looking forward to the game against Dallas—they've always been a challenge and I'm interested in seeing who'se going to step up to the plate tonight.

Mikhail Grabovski needs a breakout game, as does John Mitchell. They've both trying hard, but not getting the lucky break. It's a game of luck and injuries, so more of the former and less of the latter. Plus, more snapshots and less shots to the chest, and less overtime.

Finally, I'd like Ian White to get a goal tonight. He deserves one. Or maybe five assists and five goals...in one game.

Revitalized Leafs to Thrash Thrashers on Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 01:42:35 -0500

By annihilating the Penguins on every inch of the ice, the obvious answer to the Leafs winning the Cup is to simply play like the way they did last night, when they didn't allow a shot on net.

Well, OK, they allowed a few shots, only permitting Vesa Toskala to up his stock. So it certainly occurred to me that if Leafs management wants to make a few trades, then the players are obliging.

How's this for a trade?: Tomas Kaberle for Evgeni Malkin, and maybe we can throw in a draft pick and score that oft-maligned Sid the Kid. In fact, I'd be tempted to sweeten the pot a bit, despite all playing like Stanley Cup winners last night, and toss in the stalwart Pavel Kubina or the versatile Ian White, as it seems a lot of teams are in trouble on the way to the Cup.

I've been saying this for a while: Winning is contingent on luck and injuries. This, of course, pre-supposes a level of professionalism, in terms of playing passionately with effort and consistency, and being well-coached and trained, but then there's the wonderfully intangible "inspired play" to consider in the equation.

I wonder if, when the Leafs watch re-runs of their games, the announcers actually impact their future play.

It's nice not to have to hear Bob Cole's drivel on Saturday nights, but how many other fans were blown away by the Leafs' awesome work last night that seemed to go completely unnoticed up in the Gondola? Hughson, et al, we're obviously disappointed that they couldn't rave about a spectacular goal by the Kid, or even a pass, or a shot.

After all, they were a little shocked at Crosby's youthful antics late in the game, chasing Niklas Hagman up the ice. I can only imagine the rhetoric that would've streamed forth if a player like Kordic, Domi, or Hollweg were to engage in such activity.

I lost track of how many times one of the Leafs, whether one of our Russians (except Kulemin), Moore, Stajan, or Deveaux made a really great play in our own end, only to hear the announcers continue to comment on a Penguin play that had occurred several plays ago. It was simply weird, and reminded me of Cole.

The kicker was that these two announcers were introduced as a pair of the best. I'm glad the CBC is trying new teams in the booth, but these two are not allowed (because I decree it) to announce anymore Leafs games until they understand who's who on the team.

That's right, No. 56 is Deveaux, and he just doesn't turn down fights. He's got a pretty good shot. And our Vikings, Frogren and Hagman, played great, too, after coming back from injuries. But the best shot, and leader in the Wendel Clark shot look-a-like, is Mr Williams. That's right, anyone with a shot like that deserves to be called Mr.

Lastly, there's Sifers. One gaffe, but we won, so who cares? He played well, and it seems there is some depth down on the farm.

We're told often enough by the announcers and so-called pundits that the Leafs are weak on the depth chart and have little to offer as trade bait; well, I'm sorry, but it looks like the Penguins, and a few other teams we've clobbered lately (despite the debacle in Beantown), are in much worse trouble.

The Leafs just need to play consistently, like they did last night, on all areas of the ice, and win all the remaining games, and presto—the Cup will be paraded down Bay Street and MLSE's product will be revered as great once again.

Leafs-Penguins Preview: Leafs to Sidestep Past the Kid on the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 08:14:11 -0500

Here we go again...another night in Toronto and I'll be glued to the TV watching the product of Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment take on Sid the Kid and a few other guys on skates. I do miss Gill. I miss a good goalie these days too.

I was thinking about Mike Palmateer the other day. Well, I was thinking of Toskala actually, and then how Cujo had absolutely lost another game for the Leafs. Yes, the debacle against the Bruins had me wondering the other day.

Tonight's game against the Penguins should be fun for us fans, as I know a few players will be looking forward to playing against a so-called superstar. This is the point in the season when things will begin to gel for the Leafs as a team. Then the trades will happen.

For the moment, no one is safe. Well, that's assuming any one on the current roster actually wants to remain on the team—and it's run for The Cup. I like to believe that this group of players, as professionals, play their best night after night—yet I also believe they can get excited, more excited, when playing against The Kid.

In an obvious nothing-to-lose scenario, I predict a great game from Moore and Blake, as well as Deveaux, who, based on the previous game's fight must now finally feel comfortable.

These days, I'm likin' our other combos, like Grabovski and Kulemin, and Van Ryn and Finger. If they play well, seems they stay with the team. But if they play well, they might get traded. But I believe they always play well.

Hopefully Van Ryn has not been concussed into early retirement, given the latest hit.

Which reminds me, Luke Schenn must be a pretty big impact player after all. This brings Kubina and Kaberle into focus. Both would be called, on practically any other team, quite redundant in the grand scheme of rebuilding. Unless management believes our run for the Cup this spring is not just a dream (of mine).

I liked the way the Leafs fought offensively the other night against Boston, and I was shocked at Cujo. Surely Alan Bester is available. It seems Pogge is destined to remain a Marlie, but a few of his teammates are playing well enough for a closer look, and I'm sure Burke is examining guys like Newbury, Ondrus, Earl, and Stapleton of course.

The Leafs will win in Pittsburgh, because they are not expected to. It'll be close. It won't be a rout. But The Leafs will play inspired hockey. Typically, I'd guarantee a win in this scenario—recalling always when Gretkzy came to town—but I just can't trust our goaltending.

It's so disappointing to admit, and as a rabid fan, and thus stakeholder in the franchise, I can't ever remember saying that...even when The Razor was brought to town, heralded as an obvious upper deck decision by JFJ. I'm anxious to see the changes that are coming down the pipe.

In the meantime, I'm looking forward to the current product and its performance on the ice in Pittsburgh.

I don't want to be let down tonight, though I'd never admit the opportunity cost of not seeing the Leafs game on a Saturday (and when are the Leafs never on TV on a Saturday night? It's been sooooo long I can't remember) is a movie or going bowling.

Toronto Maple Leafs Amblng Down to Buffalo On the Way To The Cup

Graeme Boyce — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 07:37:52 -0500

You'd think prior to the Leafs' clobbering of the Islanders on Monday, the team boasting Doug Weight and Bill Guerin would be in fact fighting for a playoff spot, at least.

I can't deny that I'm all over Jeremy Williams, and he needs to stay with this team.

It can't get any worse. So, luckily, the Leafs are shuffling off to Buffalo on Friday, as there's no other arena that boasts more Leafs fans, including the ACC on most nights, given their incredible home record this year.

Okay, the ACC might actually accomodate more fans, by quantity, but it's debatable whether they're louder than the team's fans who show up in Buffalo.

I'm not one to muster support for a tandem, but I think Williams and Jason Blake might have started a roll here. I was thinking about this while watching Williams' goal (such a thing of beauty). This was a snapshot wrister combo over a flailing goalie and into the top corner. I was wondering when the next great Leafs tandem will be upon us.

Oh yeah. Antropov and Poni. How could I forget our ever-threatening twin towers?

Sifers and White? I thought Sifers gave a pretty good pre-game interview. After, I wondered if that's a serious benefit of relocating the Marlies to Toronto - no offense to my newfie friends - a significant increase in media exposure.

Hollweg was thundering the other night. Nice to see someone playing with some real energy and, dare I mention, passion. I thought coming up Deveaux might play with a bit more intensity, and he showed potential, but I'm really hoping he makes an impact in Buffalo. I mean that in the sense of a really solid hit, or even a solid fight, but most importantly a solid goal.

Okay, on to Buffalo. I'm thinking Stempniak needs to step up, and he's most likely feeling some pressure in the dressing room, so I predict a goal on Friday. It's a given that Williams will score, and I think Moore will put one in too. I was thinking what can possibly go wrong, but then our goaltending game to mind.

In the "who's to go first" sweeps, btw, I predict Kaberle. Then Toskala in a blockbuster multi-player swap.

Hooter Girls Almost Trip Up Leafs in La La Land on The Way to Cup

Graeme Boyce — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 07:57:14 -0500

There's a couple of things that require special attention when heading into the Staples Center, keeping in mind I've had nothing but positive experiences while there (yet we should've beaten the Kings in Game six way back), and these things involve rumour. So, first, we hear (a) the Kings are a good team, but now we know the Leafs are better, and (b) their women are so hot they render men useless.

However, it seems to me before the game either someone slipped the lads a collective roofie, or someone whispered that the Hooter girls wanted to visit the dressing room. No one wanted a messed up face if that were indeed proven true however.

Now back to reality. My prediction of a hat-trick was close, as we scored three goals on yet another newcomer goalie who will stand on his head when playing against the Leafs. The visiting girls were alas a rumour.

But, we were playing in LA. At least half the stands were filled with expats from Toronto, which surely must have made the game a super hot ticket throughout the day! So, in spite of the innuendo, the Leafs finally woke up and gave the fans what they came out to see: a victory, and nothing less.

As suspected, Moore stepped up to the plate and will continue in that role tonight as not just another pretty face, but a solid contributor and occasional goal scorer. In fact, it makes Poni quite useless, given his financial demands to be a Leaf.

When Coach Wilson first joined he made an excellent comment to the unsuspecting journalists surrounding him that this team was one of the fastest in the league. He made no mention of our goaltending situation, not that i think about it.

If there's one fact that stands up in the win last night, it was the Leafs' collective speed and getting to pucks in the corners. This enabled Finger to score his goal, albeit an empty netter, but it was cool to see him rewarded on the score sheet after being sent off for simply defending himself, and in a rather unspirited manner actually.

Keep in mind, if my suggested rule change came into effect he would never had left the ice. My rule change would see all rules eliminated only to be replaced by one rule: Unsportsmanlike Conduct.

Lately, I've stated that Toskala could be traded along with Antropov and Poni, along with Blake. But with Mayers going down for a month, decision day on Blake can wait. I like the fact Burke says he's not going to rush into a trade, but if he's looking at our Top Six, how can he do anything, but trade for some vaunted firepower?

Both Stempniak and Kulemin showed us they're competing for Top Snapshot, and tonight I predict one of them will score the game winner. Yes, I predict a victory against the conference leading Sharks. I have a feeling Toskala has found his groove, and he will in fact stand on his head tonight, for once.

One suggestion: with Mayers down now, bring up Bell.

Leafs Dominate Flyers before Heading Out West

Graeme Boyce — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 13:37:43 -0500

With the arrival of Burke formally announced prior to the sound pummeling of the Flyers on Saturday, the Leafs are now safely en route to the West, except one lone forgotten recruit deserving of a brief mention: Mark Bell.

Meeting immediately with the Kings and then the Sharks, there will be plenty of opportunity for belligerent play, especially against the Coyotes, and perhaps upon their return to home ice will be a new team.

Already atop bruiser Deveaux, Jaime Sifers has been recalled—perhaps to showcase his talents—and he is yet another American to make it. Alas, Mayers has to play well out West to survive the cull. Though tough, he really has not displayed any offensive prowess lately.

But the Canadian who is really going to have to show his stuff—big time—is Moore. It is pretty apparent he is playing with heart and passion, but the cards may be simply stacked against him. Ask Bell.

The game against the Flyers was a pretty good display of all-round teamwork. At one point I was ready to trade Kubina, and you all know when, but then he redeemed himself with a decent goal from the blue line. This was likely increasing his value on the market with that booming, though oft-used, slapper.

Mitchell continues to impress me with some speed and smart contributions on the ice, but is also good in front of the mic. This may be an indication of his usefulness, and Burke needs players who are truly useful, he says, thus bringing us to Stempniak.

I have no complaints yet, but was hoping to see some flair. After all, he's a revered graduate of the vaunted US college hockey system.

However, speaking of Americans, Blake's days are numbered as a Leaf. He is not a Top Six forward, and he is not a role player, a plugger, as they say. This is how Burke is going to look at the structure of our new team moving forward. (All this talk of toughness being critical, by the way, reminds me of John Brophy.)

Hagman is a keeper, as well as Grabovski, who certainly has the scars on his face to prove he is willing to stick his nose into the corners and battle.

So, again, Antropov is dangled, but Poni is gone first. The question remains: Who does the team get back in exchange for our so-called twin towers? More toughness...a la Hollweg? Other keepers today include Stajan and Kulemin. The latter really needs to start shooting more, simply utilizing the snapshot, patented by No. 17.

My guess is that Sundin is ending up a Ranger pretty soon, and I am wondering if perhaps a few more of our current Top Six players will be joining him. On other teams that might need a boost from one or two of our "aging veterans," we might be interested in Ryan Malone, Jeff Carter (still), Derek Roy, or Ray Whitney off the top of my head. I'd like to see Pominville in a Leafs jersey one day, or even Marc Savard.

I heard an interesting argument from an agent who stated the tables are turned on teams like the Leafs who can no longer, supposedly, provide sponsorship or endorsement as additional lucrative income options to incoming superstars, such as Crosby, due to the fact that the Internet can exploit their fame globally instantly.

I think a few losing seasons in Pittsburgh will change that tune soon enough.

The Leafs will beat the Kings 6-3, and I predict a hat-trick. Burke needs to bring back Bell, and too bad about the so-called tiff with Coach Wilson. He has done his time. He is tough. After all, he is from St. Mary's. Cement is also from St. Mary's.

Stempniak to Help Leafs Beat Thrashers on the Way to the Cup

Graeme Boyce — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 08:29:06 -0500

Steen had his chances. Frankly, I had seen enough as well. So, along with Carlo, the two are now eagerly heading to St Louis today. The Leafs are beefing up by taking Buffalo-native Stempniak along for the ride to the Cup.

Recall the weak pre-season effort against the Blues—a 7-3 loss, due mainly to Cujo being between the pipes—when the six-footer scored twice to send our aging net-minder to the bench early. Somewhat of a harbinger if you ask me.

In fact I've been pondering lately whether or not Burke should simply bring up Pogge and trade Toskala, with respect to lessening our dependency on euros. Oh, did I say Burke, I meant Fletcher. Right.

The game on Saturday against the equally-youthful Hawks was a huge disappoint, especially on a night they honoured and were presumably inspired by one of the recent Leafs all-time faves.

As I'm sure you'll agree, it seems the team either falls behind 2-0 or lets the lead slide away lately. They need a little "killer" instinct.

Assuming his knee trouble is just a wee bruise, Stempniak will be a pretty good addition: a big right-winger with a decent shot, and a few (phew) on the power play.

I'm guessing given his recent slump, Antropov is on the block. Well, as if he's ever been off the block. The last time I checked, which wasn't today, it seems we now have quite a few Americans on the team...more than I can ever remember.

On Tuesday the Leafs play Atlanta. This is chance for the Leafs to bounce back and stun the Thrashers, who of course will try to snap their own winless streak.

Here's my prediction: the formation of the KGB line. Kulemin. Grabovsky. Blake. Well, unless White steals the show, which is fine with me.

Sooner than later, Moore and Mayers have to start getting some decent goals. Or maybe just a few flukes, like the time Domi was energized after one bounced off his butt and into the net.

I hear Van Ryn is near to returning. This is great news. I really like his style and fortitude, plus his shot from the blue line was a bonus early in the season.

Our boy Stajan better not get too comfortable—as all eyes are on him, from a management perspective, with his Leafs-leading stats these days. Hagman needs a goal, and so does Schenn, badly.

Kubina did incredibly well late last season, where has his shot gone? But while he takes a backseat, Kaberle steps up. If the Leafs could all start clicking in unison, the Cup could be coming home to roost. But I guess that's what all coaches and managers know.

Maple Leafs-Blackhawks: Toronto Looks to Release Pent-Up Frustration

Graeme Boyce — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 04:13:48 -0500

We all know the score of the last game should have been 7-3 for the Leafs.

But due to the goalposts, it was not to be.

It's nice to see the forwards trying to pick corners, as opposed to slapping aimlessly into the pads. And speaking of nice, it's nice to see Kulemin let one or two shots go in a game. I've said it before, and I'll say it again—he's got a killa shot. If Wendel could give him some pointers on the classic snap shot, we'd be on our way to grooming a really decent sniper.

The problem with my estimations of greatness relates to of course the impending arrival of Mr Burke, and his intention to Canadianify the team with some big, bruising bodies, while bidding adieu to some of the smaller Euros.

As you all know, I'm not a fan of the Euros in general, but I have to admit the play of Grabovsky cannot be overlooked, nor that of Hagman. I do like Stralman, but he needs some seasoning and Van Ryn is better.

Onto the tilt with the Hawks. Do they still have Makita? Hull? Who's playing on this team these days?

It dosn't matter. As we've witnessed, the Leafs can play with and beat the so-called best (if you listen to and care about the opinions of pre-game commentators) in the league this year. It's these teams in the middle, like the Hawks, they seem to have some trouble with.

But it's about missed chances, bad breaks, the occasional injury and referees. I, for one, am sure glad we don't see Kerry Fraser anymore—though I did hear his name mentioned in a broadcast a few weeks ago. His name gets worries more than a game against any team. With him reffing, we are guaranteed a loss. Ask Doug Gilmour.

Blake needs to focus on passing and stirring up the pot, and must lead by example. Speaking of pot, I guess the Leafs didn't take my advice and ended up at Wreck Beach before the game out there. Maybe they got their days off mixed up.

Okay, back the Saturday night I've been looking forward to for a while—simply to again see Wendel back in action, if only the highlights, which are good enough for me.

He was a great player, and a true inspiration—not just to his teammates, but to fans who appreciated his passion for the game.

With that as an introduction, this is where we hit a fork in the road with respect to our Euros. It likely they won't know or care to know who Wendel is, or what he means to the fans. Simply put, he represents giving every ounce for the love of the game—the Canadian game, which meant in his day decking the occasional Russian.

Sittler used to play the way I'm seeing a lot of lately, and I wonder if the coaches are playing tapes for the guys. It involves skating down the wing with the puck full-tilt, slamming on the binders after crossing the blue line, and taking a wicked shot. With other players crashing the net—literally—this play usually ends up with a scoring chance, if not a goal, for guys like Turnbull.

Good to see the history rubbing off, and so an original-six match-up can only evoke a passionate fight for the win. In this regard, I need to see some passion from Steen in particular. I know he's playing good, but he needs electro-shock these days.

Leafs Set to Party on Wreck Beach After Clobbering Canucks on The Way To The Cup

Graeme Boyce — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 03:14:57 -0500

Antropov once knocked a puck out of the air to score a nice goal, and I haven't seen one since from him, well, one that I'd call nice ... until the other night in Edmonton. For once, he didn't shoot a puck into the pads or over the net, or get lucky with a blast. Instead, he actually seemed to pick the corner. Despite our win, and heading into Vancouver to pepper Luongo tonight mercilessly, there are still some forwards preferring to shoot into the chest protector. This concerns me.

Speaking of firsts, you have to admit, Blake looked good the other night. But two players, Hagman and Grabovski, stole the show from Stajan. On another note, I truly hope Bob Cole is not in the broadcast booth tonight, especially when compared to the (positive) comments being fired the Leafs way the other night.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, though, Mayers has to step up. Speaking of potential captains, you gotta love that Moore bounced back from "the hit". Wow. For a brief moment, Finger almost delivered a hip check the other night. All the rules in hockey today can be easily replaced by one rule: unsportsmanlike conduct. If two men want to drop the gloves and go head to head, I say let 'em.

Think about it. The refs could simply make a determination as to whether the offence was unsportsmanlike or not. Using a stick like a weapon is unsportsmanlike. However, today, if a player steps on a stick and falls, tripping is called. Similarly, interference is unsportsmanlike, but finishing a check is not. But I digress.

The Canucks had a shaky start apparently, but lately have been playing well. It doesn't matter. The Leafs are playing with passion and seemingly having fun - despite the odd benching - and not feeling the pressure. They're out west, and check out the crowds. I can only imagine Leafs fans will be equally as boisterous tonight.

The Leafs need, again, a strong effort from Hagman and Grabovski. If Poni or Steen could pop in a few goals, just like Antropov did, then we'd be a true underdog. At the moment we're still "surprising" opposing teams with our spunk. It's a rare day when I read that the Leafs are among the league leaders in goals scored! But not so rare when in the same sentence it's mentioned they've also allowed a few too many as well.

Well, room for improvement starts tonight, then they'll head to Wreck Beach tomorrow, and maybe we'll see some more pics of Tlusty online...