Toronto Blame Game: Dissecting the Maple Leaf's Defense

Toronto isn't necessarily the ideal destination for an NHL player.

Fans are quick to lay blame, and the media is relentless. That’s how it goes in the center of the hockey universe.

Just ask Bryan McCabe.

After signing a five-year, $28.75 million contract in 2006, the  defenseman has become Toronto's new whipping boy.

It was hoped that McCabe's blistering slapshot would provide offensive punch for the Maple Leafs.

That hasn't been the case, for the most part—and it certainly wasn’t true on Tuesday night.

After squandering a three-goal lead to the Buffalo Sabres, McCabe and the Leafs found themselves on the losing end yet again. McCabe sealed the deal by shooting the puck into his own net with four seconds remaining in the overtime session.

Needless to say, the Toronto faithful weren’t too happy.

At least McCabe has learned how to keep a level head with the press.

"Somebody makes a mistake every game," he said after the miscue. "Didn't quite put the puck where I wanted to but that's the way it goes.”

McCabe went on to say how much he enjoys playing in Toronto.

"I still love it here. It's great. I love the team. I love the guys. I still love the game and love to play," he told reporters. "We've got a long way to go. There's no need to panic yet. I'm not hanging myself with my tie just yet."

On the whole, it was an impressive display of class—especially given the fact that McCabe has been wrongly faulted for Toronto's defensive struggles.

Granted, McCabe isn't a defensive wizard—but what is he supposed to do against constant odd-man rushes?

The Toronto forwards are getting caught in the offensive end too frequently, leaving the defense exposed. The Leafs have allowed a league-leading 37 goals. The blame belongs to everyone.

Vesa Toskala and Andrew Raycroft, for their part, have been far from exceptional in goal, each posting a Goals Against Averages (GAA) above 3.50. Like McCabe, though, they haven't gotten much help from their teammates.

Injuries haven't done Toronto any favors either—the absences of emerging studs Carlo Colaiacovo and Kyle Wellwood and the recent loss of Darcy Tucker only make matters worse.

While offensive production is important, defensive play wins games. Second-year head coach Paul Maurice no doubt stress that to his players throughout the year.
 
In the end, it’s hard to blame Leaf fans for being frustrated. After all, it’s been over 40 years since their team was crowned champions of the hockey world.

Great things are always expected of the Maple Leafs.

Maybe a little more patience is needed too.