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Around SBN: The Most Dangerous Division in Sports

There Ain't Enough Room in the Basement for the Two of Us

Coming off what is arguably their biggest win of the season, the Leafs look to win two games in a row for the first time since their 4-0-0 run to open the season. The team currently sits at a junction; get a win tonight and build more momentum to salvage the season and make a run at the playoffs, or lose and descend back into the depths from whence they came. Fortunately for the Leafs, tonight they face the 3rd worst team (somehow) in hockey in the New Jersey Devils. Despite tons of offseason hype about them handily winning the division, their season has been disastrous with a paltry record of 5-11-2.

If you thought Toronto's offense was terrible, then be glad you're not a Devils fan. Averaging 1.83 goals a game, they are worst in the league. Granted that's not much worse than Toronto's 2.35 (28th), but a team with their players should definitely be scoring more. Here are the projected forward lines for tonight:

Toronto      New Jersey
MacArthur Grabovski Kessel Kovalchuk Zubrus Vasyunov
Kadri Bozak Kulemin Elias Arnott Tedenby
Sjostrom Brent Versteeg Rolston Zajac Clarkson
Brown Mitchell Orr Pelley Mair Gionta

Luca Caputi sits in the press box tonight.

Advantage: New Jersey

Why? Because they play a trap game, something that has proven quite effective against the Leafs this season especially Phil Kessel who has 1 goals in 3 games against trap teams so far in Boston and Florida. The 3rd line of Rolston - Zajac - Clarkson could easily be the Leafs 2nd line and they play a mean defensive game as well. Kovalchuk is always a threat when he's on the ice and absolutely feasts on the PP. The Leafs need to remain out of the penalty box to limit his game.

Follow me after the jump for the rest of the breakdown.

Star-divide

The one proud, defensive first Devil's concede on average 3.22 goals a game. Compare that to just last season where they had a league best 2.27 GAA. Ouch. The problem may be that New Jersey returned only 2 defense to their blueline this year; Colin White and Andy Greene. Off-season acquisitions Anton Volchenkov and Henrik Tallinder, both touted as good defensive defensemen, are a combined -9 with only 4 points between them in 18 man games played.

For the Leafs, the only change from Tuesday is that Keith Aulie is out and Carl Gunnarsson is in. That means that Brett #LikeaLebda is going to suit up for the Buds. Why Wilson would play him after his horrendous night on Tuesday is beyond me. At least Luke Schenn is turning into the beast we all knew he would. Your defensive pairings:

Toronto    New Jersey
Kaberle Schenn Volchenkov Greene
Beauchemin Komisarek White Tallinder
Lebda Gunnarsson Grenier Corrente

Advantage: Toronto

Because of Giguere's groin, Jonas Gustavsson gets the start in net. He came in cold during the third period on Tuesday and shut the door on Nashville. This could be just the opportunity he needs to show the Leafs that he can be their #1 going forward and earn himself the majority of starts for the rest of the season.

In the other crease, the venerable Martin Brodeur suits up for the Devils. Normally this would be a bad thing, but in the words of Chico Resch, whose shrill voice I get to hear to 2 1/2 hours tonight, "Marty just isn't Marty at the moment." A .901 sv% with a 2.73 GAA. Both are on pace to be the worst in his career. THE GOALIES!!!1

Toronto    New Jersey
Gustavsson Brodeur
Reimer Hedberg

Advantage: Toronto

Why? Call it a hunch that the Monster will want to play like one to show he means business.

Overall this game can go one of two ways. Either the struggling offenses of both teams will be unable to penetrate the defenses of each other and result in a close 1-0, or 2-1 game. Or it will be an absolute gong show to the tune of 7-5 as both teams forsake defense and go headlong towards the net. Either way, I've got a feeling that Toronto comes out ahead in either scenario.

Be sure to check out the Devils' preview over at In Lou We Trust if you're so inclined.

GO LEAFS GO!

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Comments

Display:

Why is Lebda in and Aulie out? I don’t understand.

by kudzupo on Nov 18, 2010 2:43 PM EST reply actions  

I dont think anyone other than the coaching staff do

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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 2:45 PM EST up reply actions  

It doesn’t make ANY sense, I know we can be a little hard on players, but Lebda has not played well, he has no points and is a minus player despite seeing limited ice time.

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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 2:56 PM EST up reply actions  

Brett Lebda aspires to be Garnet Exelby.

The experiment failed: Get rid of the trapezoid.

by Bower Power on Nov 18, 2010 2:58 PM EST up reply actions  

He’s challenging Ken Hammond, which is something I never thought possible:

1988-89 Toronto Maple Leafs NHL 14 0 2 2 12 -13

Leaf, the universe and everything.
Now in year 44 of the 42-year saga.

by 1967ers on Nov 18, 2010 3:00 PM EST up reply actions  

IT MAKES NO SENSE!

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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 3:01 PM EST up reply actions  

Ken was always my standard-bearer for “worst defenseman I’ve ever seen.” I can’t believe anyone is even in the ballpark.

Leaf, the universe and everything.
Now in year 44 of the 42-year saga.

by 1967ers on Nov 18, 2010 3:23 PM EST up reply actions  

It really is unreal.

that -13 in 14 games is too funny.

BS

by MapleLeafMole on Nov 18, 2010 3:49 PM EST up reply actions  

If my reasoning is correct...

The coaching staff has said time and again they want to protect their youth as much as possible. So playing Lebda allows someone to sit with either Aulie or Gunnarson on their game off and say:

Look! DON’T EVER DO THAT!!

They’ll be better in the long run and it’ll only cost the Leafs $1.45mil. The only other explanations are too depressing to be believed.

by Learn2Leaf on Nov 18, 2010 3:30 PM EST up reply actions  

Maybe you’re right. Maybe it’s a Johnny Do – Luke Schenn, and Johnny Don’t – Brett Lebda, sort of thing.

BS

by MapleLeafMole on Nov 18, 2010 3:51 PM EST up reply actions  

#FreeWookie

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 2:57 PM EST up reply actions  

it started with #freeluca then we added #freegunnar
Now we need #sitlebda

Fairweather fans can go to hell
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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 3:02 PM EST up reply actions  

#LikeaLebda was pretty funny though

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 3:04 PM EST up reply actions  

I’m sad we couldn’t get it trending

Dion Phaneuf: turning the tunes up since '10

by thenumber14 on Nov 18, 2010 3:08 PM EST up reply actions  

#cripplelebda

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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 3:05 PM EST up reply actions  

#FreeWilson

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 3:08 PM EST up reply actions  

Cut out the middle man.

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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 3:10 PM EST up reply actions  

thats not cool

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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 3:12 PM EST up reply actions  

I know, I don’t actually wish that on him.
 I’m just so mad right now.

The Leafs are my Rushmore
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 3:15 PM EST up reply actions  

#AkiLebda

Paying homage to the Lebda-esque defenseman who inexplicably had a steady NHL job on this team for 4.5 seasons.

Visit my blog at: http://50-mission-cap.blogspot.com/
Leaf fan for life! (No, really. They gave me a no-trade clause when I was born.)

by FiftyMissionCap on Nov 18, 2010 3:12 PM EST up reply actions  

I don’t even think the coaching staff understands

Dion Phaneuf: turning the tunes up since '10

by thenumber14 on Nov 18, 2010 3:02 PM EST up reply actions  

I presume that Lebda’s outstanding contribution to team offense is required against the defensive stalwarts from New Jersey.

Leaf, the universe and everything.
Now in year 44 of the 42-year saga.

by 1967ers on Nov 18, 2010 2:48 PM EST up reply actions  

I’m really curious how long he can keep the “team goalless when on ice” streak going. What’s the record?

"That’s why stats are so important – anecdotal evidence just doesn’t cut it when you’re talking about history." - Bower Power

by The '67 Sound on Nov 18, 2010 4:18 PM EST up reply actions  

I am so full of rage over this decision.

I don’t understand how -9 with 0 points in 10 games Lebda over Aulie makes ANY sense. I understand that a rookie pairing of Aulie and Gunnar could be a mistake, so why not pair Gunnar with Komisarek and Aulie with Beauchemin?

If our forwards can end up in Wilson’s dog house after one shift and get benched for a period or demoted for a game, how is it that Lebda has managed to play 10 games of Timbits hockey and not get reprimanded?

I.. I.. just don’t.. I.. my brain hurts. :(

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by NinjasFromSpace on Nov 18, 2010 5:14 PM EST up reply actions  

There Ain't Enough Room in the Basement for the Two of Us

Phew – thought you and Chemmy were having some sort of blogger spat. :P

Leaf, the universe and everything.
Now in year 44 of the 42-year saga.

by 1967ers on Nov 18, 2010 2:47 PM EST reply actions  

I lol’ed

by BlindSight on Nov 18, 2010 2:48 PM EST via mobile up reply actions  

Nice. My first thought was: “who’s he in the basement with?”

Be an Optimist Prime, not a Negatron. Certified Grabbo Lover!

Адразу Ліфс Перайсці !

by Sergei Puckizin on Nov 18, 2010 3:00 PM EST up reply actions  

Read the headline and figured it referred to some type of blogger on blogger throwdown.

Bitter Leaf Fan: Skepticism, not cynicism.

by mf37 on Nov 18, 2010 6:50 PM EST up reply actions  

Can’t believe they’re giving #AkiLebda another start.

Visit my blog at: http://50-mission-cap.blogspot.com/
Leaf fan for life! (No, really. They gave me a no-trade clause when I was born.)

by FiftyMissionCap on Nov 18, 2010 3:11 PM EST reply actions  

Brett Lebda: -9

Negative. I am a meat popsicle.

by birky on Nov 18, 2010 3:17 PM EST reply actions  

10 0 0 0 8
LOOK AT THAT STAT LINE!

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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 3:19 PM EST up reply actions  

Brett Lebda: Team worst -9. In only 10 games. With 0 points. And never being on the ice for a goal for. $1.45M.

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 3:19 PM EST up reply actions  

Don’t forget his 8 PIMS!!

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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 3:19 PM EST up reply actions  

Lebda’s Penalty History:

10/18 TOR vs NYI, OT: Goaltender interference. Islanders score and win game.
10/21 TOR vs NYR, 3rd: Hooking
10/28 TOR at BOS, 1st, interference. Patrice Bergeron scores GWG.
11/03 TOR at WAS, 3rd, Cross check, Mike Green scores game tying goal.

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by Chemmy on Nov 18, 2010 3:24 PM EST up reply actions  

Lebda’s new nickname is Teflon.

The Leafs are my Rushmore
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 3:25 PM EST up reply actions  

/golf clap

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 3:59 PM EST up reply actions  

this.

Dion Phaneuf: turning the tunes up since '10

by thenumber14 on Nov 18, 2010 4:00 PM EST up reply actions  

best

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 4:09 PM EST up reply actions  

that was me after the shortie on tuesday

There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"

by Matt_Roberts on Nov 18, 2010 4:20 PM EST up reply actions  

I like this

"Stay Cute or put it on Mute"

Wrap Around Curl

by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Nov 18, 2010 4:15 PM EST up reply actions  

Im really tired right now. Just got home from a long day, and Birky you made me laugh. A lot. Thank you.

So. Rec’d.

by samspade on Nov 18, 2010 6:33 PM EST up reply actions  

There was obviously something wrong with that Ranger penalty.

Leaf, the universe and everything.
Now in year 44 of the 42-year saga.

by 1967ers on Nov 18, 2010 3:27 PM EST up reply actions  

Uhhh, which Gionta is on the Devils 4th line?

The Leafs are my Rushmore
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 3:24 PM EST reply actions  

Ain't enough room in the basement...

The NY Islanders already hog the bathroom too much as it is.

Go Leafs!

by Learn2Leaf on Nov 18, 2010 3:27 PM EST reply actions  

And you’ve already got the Oilers and Flames crashing on the couch.

Visit my blog at: http://50-mission-cap.blogspot.com/
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by FiftyMissionCap on Nov 18, 2010 3:36 PM EST up reply actions  

Lebda Shmeda
That means that Brett Lebda is going to suit up for the Buds. Why Wilson would play him after his horrendous night on Tuesday is beyond me.

Another reason for Wilson to firm up his pre Xmas Carolinas tee off times, as soon as Burkie wakes the F#CK UP.

by Infield Pete on Nov 18, 2010 3:27 PM EST reply actions  

I dont get WIlson, the Leafs lose to Canucks, use the same lineup and beat the Preds, and now he changes the lineup?
Why not go with what worked?

Fairweather fans can go to hell
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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 3:31 PM EST reply actions  

Blender is stuck on puree.

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 3:32 PM EST up reply actions  

I’m not a coach or a GM, nor do I pretend to be, but this doesn’t make sense to me. Lineup A won a game. Stick with lineup A. Fuckin Aulie has been solid.

Fairweather fans can go to hell
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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 3:35 PM EST up reply actions  

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 3:35 PM EST up reply actions  

Ron Wilson: I like to be creative

by Frag on Nov 18, 2010 3:37 PM EST up reply actions  

Wilson doesn’t know that quote. His dad told him:

If it ain’t broke, you aren’t trying hard enough.

by Learn2Leaf on Nov 18, 2010 3:37 PM EST up reply actions  

I Thought

Wilson’s Matra is “If they won’t ever fire my ass, I can fuck up and laugh all the way to the bank.”

by Infield Pete on Nov 18, 2010 3:38 PM EST up reply actions  

We get it. You hate Wilson. You’re not exactly contributing to the discourse.

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 3:52 PM EST up reply actions  

Thank you

"Stay Cute or put it on Mute"

Wrap Around Curl

by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Nov 18, 2010 4:16 PM EST up reply actions  

Better show me that hall pass or keep walking.

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 4:18 PM EST up reply actions  

you wouldn’t be so snarky if you saw the bad ass sash he gets to wear
it has tassels

Rule #20

by JaredFromLondon on Nov 18, 2010 4:43 PM EST up reply actions  

JAred, the Gulag isn’t getting any use lately…

Fairweather fans can go to hell
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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 4:45 PM EST up reply actions  

i dont put people there, I just keep em there

Rule #20

by JaredFromLondon on Nov 18, 2010 4:47 PM EST up reply actions  

It’s probably a hint that you’re getting tiresome.

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by PPP on Nov 19, 2010 12:43 AM EST up reply actions  

they have yet to go with the same lineup from the first 4 games! obviously they can’t now, but they should never have changed anything from game 5 and on, even if Gunar…sucked more than AKi Berg.

by Cat Smasher on Nov 18, 2010 3:39 PM EST up reply actions  

Gunnar is no Lebda.

by Frag on Nov 18, 2010 3:41 PM EST up reply actions  

send Lebda to the KHL, horrible horrible, bring back Lumme for shit sake.

by Cat Smasher on Nov 18, 2010 3:48 PM EST up reply actions  

Ahh Lumme. Anyone else remember when he got that penalty for Illegal Stick for playing the puck while holding his stick AND the goalie’s stick?

by AM18 on Nov 18, 2010 6:30 PM EST up reply actions  

Derp?

That’s my only explanation.

by Frag on Nov 18, 2010 3:33 PM EST up reply actions  

Beacause he is a definitive Fucking Idiot

Per Wikipedia…

 An idiot, dolt, or dullard is a mentally deficient person, or someone who acts in a self-defeating or significantly counterproductive way.

by Infield Pete on Nov 18, 2010 3:35 PM EST up reply actions  

Remember when Paul Maurice insisted on playing Andy Wozniewski all the f@#$%ing time, despite the fact he was…y’know….awful?

This is like $1.45M worth of that.

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by FiftyMissionCap on Nov 18, 2010 3:33 PM EST reply actions  

NJ hasn’t played the trap in years. But still boo for them for even doing it.

by Cat Smasher on Nov 18, 2010 3:37 PM EST reply actions  

I’d rather face the Capitals’ anti-trap from a strictly offensive POV.

by Frag on Nov 18, 2010 3:40 PM EST up reply actions  

I think the only way Lebda could win our support at this point is to jump off the bench with a lasso à la Mighty Ducks 2 and hogtie Marty Brodeur.

by potvin vs hextall on Nov 18, 2010 3:46 PM EST reply actions  

i like this image.

throw in a cowboy hat and I’m on board.

Dion Phaneuf: turning the tunes up since '10

by thenumber14 on Nov 18, 2010 3:49 PM EST up reply actions  

He could Versteeg his way out of the doghouse; score a goal and get the team going on their way to a win.

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by Chemmy on Nov 18, 2010 3:51 PM EST up reply actions  

we’re talking about lebda here

Dion Phaneuf: turning the tunes up since '10

by thenumber14 on Nov 18, 2010 3:52 PM EST up reply actions  

stranger things have happened, I guess anything is possible. ;)

by Cat Smasher on Nov 18, 2010 3:52 PM EST up reply actions  

like cory cross scoring an OT winner against the sens in 2001

There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"

by Matt_Roberts on Nov 18, 2010 4:21 PM EST up reply actions  

Just hyperbolizing. Actually, until the giveaway on the powerplay last game I was still giving him the benefit of the doubt.

Also I’m hoping that Lebda reads these boards… and is highly suggestible…

by potvin vs hextall on Nov 18, 2010 3:54 PM EST up reply actions  

Two minutes for…..roping?

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 3:53 PM EST up reply actions  

I watched that at my parents house last weekend and me and my brothers just picked that movie apart.

It’s 90 minutes of ridiculousness and 5 minutes of Emilio Estevez’s hair.

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 3:55 PM EST up reply actions  

My gf and I had a legit debate on what the Iceland coach says to Gunner at the end of the game when Gunnar missed the shootout goal.
Sadly, I was wrong

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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 3:56 PM EST up reply actions  

Gunnar, you lost it for me.
You lost it for yourself. Let’s shake their hands.

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 4:01 PM EST up reply actions  

Yes yes I know.
Also, Russ is now on Saturday Night Live.

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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 4:02 PM EST up reply actions  

If I ever saw him on the street, I would be screaming “Is it knucklepuck time?” over and over.

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 4:22 PM EST up reply actions  

HAHAHAHA
Ya, I would too

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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 4:23 PM EST up reply actions  

Welcome to Good Burger, home of the Good Burger. Can I take your order?

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 4:23 PM EST up reply actions  

I had completely forgotten that

“He’s fancy, he’ll go glove”
is referring to a slapshot.

From above the faceoff circles.

During a shootout.

What’s fancy about a slapshot in that situation? Marek Malik’s shootout goal. Now that shit’s fancy.

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 4:02 PM EST up reply actions  

Technically, because he came to a full stop before shooting the penalty shot should have ended right then and there.

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 4:03 PM EST up reply actions  

Fulton did the same thing.

Also, if it’s a double-elimination tournament, who else beat Russia?

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 4:05 PM EST up reply actions  

I think we might be over analyzing a Disney movie…

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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 4:07 PM EST up reply actions  

I wholeheartedly approve of this comment.

Mike Weber: Rejailed into the pressbox.
Everything wrong with the Sabres is Drew Stafford's fault.

by Ubiquitous on Nov 18, 2010 4:16 PM EST up reply actions  

I’m just about in awe of this comment

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 4:20 PM EST up reply actions  

this is beyond hilarious

There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"

by Matt_Roberts on Nov 18, 2010 4:22 PM EST up reply actions  

This whole thread is making me laugh my ass off, and this was just beyond incredible.

ZIG’d.

by samspade on Nov 18, 2010 6:38 PM EST up reply actions  

Had to have been Germany.

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 4:11 PM EST up reply actions  

id like to know how the hell its not canada int he final

There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"

by Matt_Roberts on Nov 18, 2010 4:23 PM EST up reply actions  

Not invited to the Junior Goodwill Games.

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 4:24 PM EST up reply actions  

Im pretty sure they were, they just lost

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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 4:24 PM EST up reply actions  

yep, you can see Canada in one of the newspaper headlines

There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"

by Matt_Roberts on Nov 18, 2010 4:26 PM EST up reply actions  

No, they were there.

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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 4:25 PM EST up reply actions  

they were there

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 4:26 PM EST up reply actions  

Man that tournament was fucked up.

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 4:30 PM EST up reply actions  

Yea, apparently Russian beat Iceland in another game, need to rewatch movie.

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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 4:31 PM EST up reply actions  

They make it clear that russia “upsets” Iceland, so taht the final is a winner-take-all.

And USA beats Russia to advance to the final. So who else beat Russia? I think it pretty much had to be Canada.

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 4:34 PM EST up reply actions  

Tinidad and Tobago?

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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 4:38 PM EST up reply actions  

Mind blown. I didn’t even think about why Canada wasn’t in there. It’s been years since I’ve seen the movie.

by purplish on Nov 18, 2010 6:00 PM EST up reply actions  

I’m surprised somebody hasn’t tried to piece together the results of that entire tournament. Isn’t that why the Internet exists?

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 4:24 PM EST up reply actions  

Also, why does Gretzky visit team USA?!
DOESN’T MAKE SENSE

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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 4:29 PM EST up reply actions  

Cause they were, and he was, in LA.

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 4:37 PM EST up reply actions  

A canadian icon visiting USA? Sorry, doesn’t make sense

Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 4:40 PM EST up reply actions  

it’s a Disney movie where kids were wearing football helmets to their first few practices…

by Nigel Cadbury on Nov 18, 2010 4:41 PM EST up reply actions  

Because when the movie came out Canada hadn’t won an Olympic Gold since 1952.

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by Chemmy on Nov 18, 2010 4:32 PM EST up reply actions  

And Iceland was some sort of Hockey Juggernaut?
Maybe the writers were bad fans of Sigor Ros.

The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 4:38 PM EST up reply actions  

*big

The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
Follow my foray in fancy facial follicles

by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 4:38 PM EST up reply actions  

Most Americans are stupid and “Iceland” certainly sounds like a place where people play “ice hockey”.

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by Chemmy on Nov 18, 2010 4:40 PM EST up reply actions  

Undoubtedly .

The Leafs are my Rushmore
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by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Nov 18, 2010 4:41 PM EST up reply actions  

Only 2 guys can get away with a slapshot on a penalty shot in a shootout. Chara and Rolston

Fairweather fans can go to hell
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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 4:05 PM EST up reply actions  

Semin did it pretty well

Rule #20

by JaredFromLondon on Nov 18, 2010 4:51 PM EST up reply actions  

Colby armstrong in the preseason :)

by Ben Schnell on Nov 18, 2010 5:10 PM EST up reply actions  

Goldberg is almost worse than Toskala.

by potvin vs hextall on Nov 18, 2010 3:58 PM EST up reply actions  

Read this to yourself and try not to laugh.
Connie Moreau over to get it.

Sanderson has her lined up.

Get out of there!

Yee-haw!

No, Dwayne!

I’m comin’, Connie!

source

by potvin vs hextall on Nov 18, 2010 3:57 PM EST up reply actions  

the funniest part of that whole sequence is the fact that shes fighting for the puck along the boards with nobody else there…. and somehow cant get it….

There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"

by Matt_Roberts on Nov 18, 2010 4:24 PM EST up reply actions  

Ohh I forgot about Volchenkov. Kadri better not come across the blue line with his head down

Fairweather fans can go to hell
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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 4:12 PM EST reply actions  

This is a little alarming...
The Leafs’ team save percentage of .896 ranks 24th in the league and is only a small improvement over last season’s .892, which was dead last. – Mirtle

What do you guys make of it? Bad luck? I have to be honest: Giguerre hasn’t looked very good to me.

by potvin vs hextall on Nov 18, 2010 4:13 PM EST reply actions  

Penalty Kill

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 4:16 PM EST up reply actions  

Penalty kill’s still a shitshow and the Leafs as a whole are allowing fewer shots/game.

Ergo, crap save percentage

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by clrkaitken on Nov 18, 2010 4:17 PM EST up reply actions  

Well. That’s that, then. But think how bad the PK’d be if they weren’t allowed to use their sticks like last year :)

by potvin vs hextall on Nov 18, 2010 4:21 PM EST up reply actions  

Soo

does Orr score on a breakaway again?

"Stay Cute or put it on Mute"

Wrap Around Curl

by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Nov 18, 2010 4:25 PM EST reply actions  

that may have been on of those ‘once in a lifetime’ things…

im in the mood for a couple snipes from mr philthy phil

There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"

by Matt_Roberts on Nov 18, 2010 4:25 PM EST up reply actions  

Nope

Lebda will.

20 miles to Legoland!

by nhlcheapshot on Nov 18, 2010 5:04 PM EST up reply actions  

Why do management feed us this junk about accountability and playing for your spot.
aulie in the box ? Doesn’t seem like he’s being rewarded for his good play.
Lebda in the lineup; name one good thing this guy can do…anyone?

and another thing why do we NEED someone in the press box at all?
like if caputi isnt going to play let the marlie’s use him? no?

by goaltender interference on Nov 18, 2010 4:44 PM EST reply actions  

Preaching to the choir good sir. The same thing happened last year. Burke say’s nothing is given, everything earned, then he plays the same crappy veterans until he make the Phaneuf trade.

Certified Grabbo Lover

by SkinnyFish on Nov 18, 2010 4:46 PM EST up reply actions  

My guess is that Wilson is balancing between letting the players prove their worth and not making them fearful that a few mistakes will automatically get them benched. Lebda, Gunner and Aulie are all fringe players. I think he’s giving them an honest chance and will make the call a few games down the road, in the meantime rotating them in and out regardless of play.

This way players aren’t player/benched for isolated incidents, but rather for a body of work (albeit a limited one).

I’m hoping that this is the reason, anyway.

by potvin vs hextall on Nov 18, 2010 4:54 PM EST up reply actions  

If that's the case...

Wilson has playe Lebda and Aulie, Ledba and Gunnar… where is our Aulie and Gunnarson game? Where?

Also, Ledba’s body of work doesn’t support what you are saying.

by Learn2Leaf on Nov 18, 2010 4:57 PM EST up reply actions  

Maybe I’m just being stubborn with Lebda, but I don’t think he’s as bad as everyone else does. I don’t blame him for that OT penalty, for instance.

Anyway, I’m not saying this is definitely what’s happening, just that it’s one possible explanation for the ‘musical chairs’.

by potvin vs hextall on Nov 18, 2010 5:01 PM EST up reply actions  

He’s not rotating. Lebda’s played every game since Phaneuf’s injury at least and his play has ranged from “not helpful” to “catastrophic”.

Meanwhile prospects rot in the press box for games on end.

"That’s why stats are so important – anecdotal evidence just doesn’t cut it when you’re talking about history." - Bower Power

by The '67 Sound on Nov 18, 2010 5:01 PM EST up reply actions  

#freeluca
#sitlebda

Fairweather fans can go to hell
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by leafer1984 on Nov 18, 2010 5:02 PM EST up reply actions  

Just looking for a brightside. It’s very possible that I’ll be a Lebda/Wilson hater soon.

by potvin vs hextall on Nov 18, 2010 5:10 PM EST up reply actions  

Wilson playing Lebda is worrisome – and not logical.

"Stay Cute or put it on Mute"

Wrap Around Curl

by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Nov 18, 2010 5:18 PM EST up reply actions  

The problem is that we’re saying it’s illogical by our metric. I don’t think Ron Wilson is being purposefully illogical, so we need to figure out what standard he uses.

If my above hypothetical doesn’t make sense, then it’s some other reason. Maybe it’s a desire to go with experience at the cost of player development. I don’t think that Lebda has been miles worse than Gunner (by my qualitative observations), though obviously most people here disagree. Maybe Wilson feels the same as I do.

For the record, even though I don’t dislike Lebda too much, I’d be playing Gunner and Aulie 5/6 right now. I just wanted to explore the possibility that Ron Wilson is not stark raving mad, if only to keep from getting too depressed.

by potvin vs hextall on Nov 18, 2010 5:30 PM EST up reply actions  

Bingo

Clarke MacArthur spoke about that in Jonas Siegel’s blog. How it was important that he knew that he wouldn’t get bumped to the fourth line if he messed up.

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by PPP on Nov 19, 2010 12:45 AM EST up reply actions  

HA!

You got served by Wilson.

Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
Like reading thoughts confined to 140 characters? I'm on Twitter too.

by PPP on Nov 19, 2010 12:44 AM EST up reply actions  

Lebda to Calgary.

Sutter’s gotta replace White’s offense.

by not norm ullman on Nov 18, 2010 5:07 PM EST reply actions  

If we win this game and next game, we’re as good a Pittsburgh!

by Theodles on Nov 18, 2010 5:09 PM EST reply actions  

oh damn pittsburgh won last night…guess we’re not ..we’d need to win all three games in hand.

Anyway if the Leafs lose tonight, I’ll be sad. They need to beat fatty and lazy.

by Theodles on Nov 18, 2010 5:11 PM EST up reply actions  

Hold on….and I’m commenting before reading the comments: HOW THE FUCK IS LEBDA IN AND AULIE OUT? DOES WILSON WANT TO BE LYNCHED?

Not Liking Nikolai Kulemin Means You Have No Soul

by Clawson on Nov 18, 2010 5:17 PM EST reply actions  

Too bad there wasn’t another ‘A’ in his name, then we could anagram him

Real Bad Bet

"Stay Cute or put it on Mute"

Wrap Around Curl

by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Nov 18, 2010 5:22 PM EST up reply actions  

One guy plays :17 in the third while another is a rock and Wilson benches the rock? FOL.

Not Liking Nikolai Kulemin Means You Have No Soul

by Clawson on Nov 18, 2010 5:25 PM EST up reply actions  

everyone needs a lebgoat

Rule #20

by JaredFromLondon on Nov 18, 2010 5:26 PM EST up reply actions  

He can’t smell what’s cooking :(

by Theodles on Nov 18, 2010 5:27 PM EST up reply actions  

You really should have read the comments. We’ve been bitching about it all day.

20 miles to Legoland!

by nhlcheapshot on Nov 18, 2010 5:31 PM EST up reply actions  

I like my own brand of bitching though.

Not Liking Nikolai Kulemin Means You Have No Soul

by Clawson on Nov 18, 2010 5:35 PM EST up reply actions  

Clawson brand bitching, now with 30 percent more emo!

Rule #20

by JaredFromLondon on Nov 18, 2010 5:36 PM EST up reply actions  

I haven’t been emo for like over a year now thank you very much.

Not Liking Nikolai Kulemin Means You Have No Soul

by Clawson on Nov 18, 2010 5:55 PM EST up reply actions  

dont you lie to me

Rule #20

by JaredFromLondon on Nov 18, 2010 5:58 PM EST up reply actions  

My hair is brown and my wrists are pristine.

Not Liking Nikolai Kulemin Means You Have No Soul

by Clawson on Nov 18, 2010 6:01 PM EST up reply actions  

Makeup does work wonders

Proud member of the Fredric Sjostrom Fan Club. Kulemin, so hot right now, Kulemin
Boom Posted!

by PassivelyTruculent on Nov 18, 2010 6:02 PM EST up reply actions  

Pfft…. don’t even know what makeup is.

Not Liking Nikolai Kulemin Means You Have No Soul

by Clawson on Nov 18, 2010 6:03 PM EST up reply actions  

If you only say something once, it’s not really bitching!

by Theodles on Nov 18, 2010 5:37 PM EST up reply actions  

In the comments we all agreed Lebda looks pretty good. I don’t think you’re accounting for Lebda’s locker room presence.

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by Chemmy on Nov 18, 2010 5:40 PM EST up reply actions  

Yeah I much prefer having a culture change than winning hockey games.

Not Liking Nikolai Kulemin Means You Have No Soul

by Clawson on Nov 18, 2010 5:56 PM EST up reply actions  

I just hope there’s a decent stream of tonight’s game. I also hope we win. I’ll take the win over the stream though, personal sacrifices and all

by ShahofToronto on Nov 18, 2010 6:18 PM EST reply actions  

I get the ill will toward Lebda, but put things in perspective.

I mean, either one of Magnan-Grenier or Corriente makes Lebda look like Andy Greene.

And Vasyunov on the top line with Zubrus? I’d say a two-game winning streak is not exactly a reach here.

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Nov 18, 2010 6:57 PM EST reply actions  

NJ dug their own grave

No one shedding tears for their situation, that’s for sure.

20 miles to Legoland!

by nhlcheapshot on Nov 19, 2010 2:10 AM EST up reply actions  

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