Sigh.
by JP Nikota on Dec 29, 2010 8:30 AM EST
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Last night's loss to the Hurricanes wasn't without positives; Kessel scored two goals and looked dangerous all game, Versteeg also had an excellent game and picked up an assist, and as usual, the MGK line was good. Overall, a good effort that saw the Hurricanes hemmed in their own end for significant stretches of time.
Unfortunately, John Mitchell and Brett Lebda continued to happen to us all over the place, and Jonas Gustavsson looked shaky on the opening goal. If the Leafs were tired from their expedition in the storm, it didn't show nearly as much as how tired many of us are at seeing Lebda and Mitchell (and for some, Orr) in the lineup.
Not helping matters was the solid performance of Cam Ward, who kept the game tied through a particularly strong second period by Toronto where the Leafs out-shot the Hurricanes 14-7.
Overall, the Leafs out-shot the 'Canes 37-27, went 1-for-6 on the PP, allowed one goal on 3 PKs, and went 27 - 30 on the faceoff dot.
Welp. I guess the only thing for the team to do is to take what they can from this game and keep truckin'. Hopefuly, they'll find themselves outside the bottom five.
Head over the Canes Country for a recap of the game from the opposition's perspective, as well as a few interesting tidbits of information regarding motivational tactics:
Eric Staal said after the game that Carolina GM Jim Rutherford came into the locker room during the second intermission and had some words for the team. He was not happy with their play in the second period.
A good quote from The Globe and Mail's inappropriately titled recap when they asked Mikhahail Grabovski if he felt tired through the game:
"I’m 26 years old," he said. "I had lots of energy."
There are a few other interesting links today, so head on over the jump.
Leaf Links:
Summer With Wings' Datsuyk Works Wonders For Grabovski
"We played tennis, go to skate, go to work out," explained Grabovski in a one-on-one conversation with AM640. "I learn a lot from him because he’s won Cups, he’s [played a] long time in the NHL, he helped me a lot." From Jonas Siegel.
Is Kessel destined to be Jason Spezza?
It's not such a straightforward comparison, but Michael Langlois draws some parallels between the two players.
Game In 10 – Game 35
Game recap via Xterratu at LeafsHQ.
Other Hockey Links:
Heroes in Rehab: Pierre McGuire: Blind or Just Obsequious?
Junior debates the matter.
Darryl Dismissed: An M&G Roundtable/A Series of Essays
Get some Flames' fans reactions on the move that was years coming.
Sabres owner denies sale of team
Dave Shoalts explains that previous reports were erroneous. Oh well.
Davos bounces Canada at Spengler Cup
I had completely forgotten that this tournament was even running right now. Recap from The Globe and Mail.
Tuesday's Three Stars From Puck Daddy
Sean Leahy gives a thumbs up to Crosby, Raycroft (!), and Weber. Check it out for other good tidbits from around the league.
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Comments
I want the more people to write about how awesome Grabbo was and how we stole him from the Habs. Can you imagine how the trade would be talked about incessantly if the Leafs had been the ones shipping him out?
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 8:41 AM EST reply actions
this is a completely fair comment
I didn’t quite like that trade while it happened, and didn’t like the early returns when I thought we had a petulant, perimeter-playing wacko.
But Grabovski has been the leafs best player this year, it needs to be said. Consistently playing tough minutes and producing results.
Unabashed fan of the surprise 2012 Stanley Cup champs
Not only that but he shows a willingness and desire to improve his game and work hard, hope his attitude is contagious.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 11:04 AM EST up reply actions
In the first four games this season, MacArthur scored 5 goals on 12 shots. Since then, he has 4 goals on 49 shots, good for an 8 SH%. He has scored a goal in one of his last 23 games.
He’s still putting up assists, but it looks like he’s coming back down to Earth.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
so we should trade him??
I want to punch Howard Burger in the face.
by Andy Kyle Beattie on Dec 29, 2010 8:47 AM EST up reply actions
noted
I want to punch Howard Burger in the face.
by Andy Kyle Beattie on Dec 29, 2010 8:49 AM EST up reply actions
That’s birky’s opinion. Not mine.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 8:49 AM EST up reply actions
Yea it’s a tough call, I’m all for getting assets when we can, but I don’t see teams ponying up more than a 2nd rounder for him, so long as he can be had for cheap, might as well keep him.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 8:52 AM EST up reply actions
The RFA thing is huge. He’d get at least a 2nd rounder in an offer sheet, so that should be the bare minimum, not the most Burke would be looking for.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 8:53 AM EST up reply actions
I think the ONLY reason we should be trading a 25 year old player on pace for 60 points would be if we thought he’d be too expensive to re-sign in the summer.
He’s RFA, so I’m not really worried about how expensive he’ll be.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 8:52 AM EST up reply actions
He's allowed to want whatever he wants, doesn't mean he'll get it.
RFA, he’s not going anywhere for less than a 2nd rounder, and I think he is worth more on this hockey club than a hope that the 2nd rounder will turn into something useful in 5 years.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 8:55 AM EST up reply actions
This.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 8:55 AM EST up reply actions
He’s eligible for arbitration again. He got 2.4 million for a 34 point season. He could potentially get more this summer. I’d rather move him and get a pick. I’m not terribly attached to average hockey players
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
He got $2.4M because Atlanta wanted him gone and told the arbitrator to award MacArthur whatever he wanted.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
But 2nd round picks you're in love with.
I don’t want to become like the Islanders where we just keep selling roster players for picks just so we don’t have to pay the player.
Yes he’s average, but if he’s putting up 60 points, im very okay with that type of average.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:06 AM EST up reply actions
I’m concerned with the long term cap situation of the team. There is a very good chance the cap ceiling drops after next season with a new CBA. There’s also no bonus cushion next year.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
Not sure why you’re so concerned with our long-term cap, unless you think we’re for sure getting a B. Richards or Semin in the offseason. We have plenty of room as of now, Giggy coming off the cap (hopefully), and who knows what happens with Kabs.
Other than MacArthur, and MAYBE Schenn, I don’t see anyone getting substantial raises.
Our cap situation is very good compared to many many other teams.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:12 AM EST up reply actions
Schenn’s raise will be substantial in dollars paid only, not cap hit
and Bozak’s hit will drop at least by half
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:15 AM EST up reply actions
Because there is strong indication that the salary cap will go down in the next CBA. The Leafs are going to eventually have to invest some money in better goaltending as well as up front and already have 23 million committed to 6 players
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
If the Leafs are in trouble for cap
then about 10 other teams are beyond fucked.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:26 AM EST up reply actions
The Leafs should be putting themselves in position to take advantage of the situation
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
So we can get castoff salaries from better teams who used their money to retain their core?
I don’t think the cap space is nearly as advantageous as some media outlets make it out to be. Right now we have about 4M in space and has not given us any benefits (as of yet).
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:29 AM EST up reply actions
also, I’ve heard nothing but expectations the cap will actually go up to 60ish mill
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:27 AM EST up reply actions
That’s for next season. There’s also no bonus cushion next year. The CBA expires in 2012 and I doubt the ceiling stays where it is. It could go down dramatically.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
It’s not like the NHL is losing money, though.
Hockey Blog Adventure: New Post: Matt Kalman: Have you no sense of decency, sir? (I'm also on Twitter.) GO BRUINS! (and Wild!)
by Cornelius Hardenbergh on Dec 29, 2010 9:31 AM EST up reply actions
The only player with bonuses next year will be Kadri, I believe, and it wouldn’t affect us much to leave the $1million or so in potential bonuses he has.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 9:31 AM EST up reply actions
heres something ive been wondering, just say the cap goes up to 60 mill and teams spend to the cap, but then the new CBA comes out and the cap sits at 50 mill
what do teams who have contracts lined up for a few years signed before the new CBA
are they forced to fire sale or what?
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:32 AM EST up reply actions
I doubt that would happen.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:33 AM EST up reply actions
Probably across-the-board reductions like the last CBA.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 9:33 AM EST up reply actions
ok then, minimize the spread, what if its at what it is now, and drops to 50 flat
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:34 AM EST up reply actions
why not? Several teams going into the last lockout had payrolls in the 60 million neighborhood. The cap was what, 39 million in 05/06?
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
Anything is possible, but short of another lockout happening, I can’t see the NHLPA signing off one what would essentially be a massive firing/demotion of about 50 NHL-calibre players due to cap constraints.
It’s not impossible, I just don’t think it’ll happen.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:36 AM EST up reply actions
I guess we’ll just have to disagree on this one. I don’t see MacArthur has a long term cog on this team and I think we’re farther from being a good team than most people.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
he’s 25 years old, why can’t he be a “long term” cog in the 2nd line?
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:42 AM EST up reply actions
I disagree. He may not be flashy, but he has talent.
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
You’ve fallen into MacArthur’s trap. He’s not good. Its January, so he sucks now. That’s how it works.
Mike Weber: Free to roam the ice and take stupid boarding penalties once more.
Sabres top-line center: Rob Niedermayer. Yes, you read that right.
I really really really hope he has a great year just to prove you wrong. I have no idea if he actually will. But I hope. Then you won’t get to be right.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 10:05 AM EST up reply actions
i thought you said he sucked in december before
he had 9 points in 11 games
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 10:05 AM EST up reply actions
He’s clearly improving in longevity, but how long will it last before he goes back to sucking?
Mike Weber: Free to roam the ice and take stupid boarding penalties once more.
Sabres top-line center: Rob Niedermayer. Yes, you read that right.
april i hope, that means he’ll recover in time for october
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 10:19 AM EST up reply actions
Heh, Buffalo fans…
Hockey Blog Adventure: New Post: Matt Kalman: Have you no sense of decency, sir? (I'm also on Twitter.) GO BRUINS! (and Wild!)
by Cornelius Hardenbergh on Dec 29, 2010 10:19 AM EST up reply actions
Never ever ever ever.
Grabbo will make him a 60 point playa fo life.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 10:19 AM EST up reply actions
That's fine
It is pretty easy to go either way on the MacArthur and Kaberle issues right now.
It’s a much tougher sell to hear why we’d keep Giggy on another season, even at reduced cap hit.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:45 AM EST up reply actions
In defense of Birky’s position, not that he needs defending, but just because he is advocating moving parts such as MacArthur now doesn’t mean we suddenly become the Islanders. I don’t think he’s ever said we should have a policy of trading all of our semi-useful players indefinitely, rather we should move them based on the context of the situation. And in this situation I also think they should be moved.
But that doesn’t mean we have to move every useful player in the future as well.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 9:58 AM EST up reply actions
just because he is advocating moving parts such as MacArthur now doesn’t mean we suddenly become the Islanders.
I was obviously using an extreme example.
Every player should be available for trade on a shitty team, I don’t think we’ll get a return for MacArthur which is as valuable (near or long-term) as he is to the team right now.
2nd round pick, or 60 point player? If those are the options, I choose 60 point player.*
*Note: This assumes MacArthur actually gets 60 points this season.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 10:00 AM EST up reply actions
I only spoke up because Birky’s been pushing this for a few days now and the most common retort (not necessarily from you but from many commenters, even within this thread) is “we don’t want to turn into the Islanders trading everybody and staying mediocre.”
I don’t think everybody is saying that ironically or as an extreme example. I think people honestly believe that and equate moving players on a bad team now with a long-term trend or plan.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 10:11 AM EST up reply actions
Last time there was a buyout period that didn’t count against the cap. If the cap drops it’s likely we’ll have a chance to jettison Komisarek and Phaneuf for free.
Cap problems solved!
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
You’re so cute for thinking they would buyout Phaneuf.
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
I respectfully disagree
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
He has a terrible contract, plays iffy D and doesn’t score.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
Again, I respectfully disagree. I am not getting into an argument with you about this.
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
What is Phaneuf doing for us? He makes $6.5M dollars.
He has the 27th highest cap hit in the NHL.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
He does turn the music up to 11 in the dressing room. Apparently that’s the kind of player CGY is now looking for.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 10:12 AM EST up reply actions
Looking objectively as a player, he hasn’t been great. But within the context of him being named captain just this year and Burke basically putting all his eggs in Phaneuf’s basket, the optics make it almost impossible to do anything with him until at least the last year of his contract.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 10:12 AM EST up reply actions
Saying we’ll keep him because of optics doesn’t speak well of the organization.
I understand that we’re not likely to buyout the captain but if we get the chance in the next CBA realistically we should take it.
He hasn’t been “not great” he’s been atrocious. I can’t think of one play he’s made where I’ve said “Wow am I glad we have that guy”.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
I agree. Allowing optics and public opinion to determine your decision making is bad. But honestly, in a city like Toronto you have no choice. I’m not allowing Burke off the hook for this, but I certainly understand.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 10:15 AM EST up reply actions
this really hurts cause its so true. I want to like Phaneuf, but he is fuckin terrible
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 10:36 AM EST up reply actions
The worse part of it is he has worse than his low point in Calgary!
08/09 80GP 11G 36A 47P .588PPG
09/10 (Calgary) 55GP 10G 12A 22P 0.400PPG
Career with Leafs 45GP 3G 14P 17P 0.378PPG
WHAT. THE. FUCK?!
what ive noticed with Phaneuf this year, even compared to last year, is that Wilson has reigned him in big time. Theres no big hits anymore, theres barley any physicality to his game. Hes afraid to get caught making a bad pinch or get caught out of position, which is nice i guess, but it just makes him look like another below average defenceman. The stand out aspects of his game just arent there anymore.
Even his bomb from the point is practically non existant…
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 10:52 AM EST up reply actions
I understand frustration with Phaneuf’s lack of offensive production and it’s the cool thing to do now to hate on Phaneuf, but atrocious really is a very strong word and I’ll have to disagree. When he’s in the lineup, he’s arguably been the best defenseman on the team. Damning with faint praise, perhaps, and not arguing he’s worth that cap hit, but he’s not been “buyout” bad.
no more buyouts
despite the fact that Dion is a serviceable Dman who just gets paid about $3M too much, I dont want to see this team buyout ANYONE in a cap world
We’re paying Darcy Tucker until 2014!
Make a bad contract? Bury it. Man up and swallow it, MLSE.
Unabashed fan of the surprise 2012 Stanley Cup champs
A CBA mandated buyout amnesty would mean no cap hits.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
You have to read the whole thread of comments
He was referring to a CBA-exempted buyout that doesn’t count against the cap for future years, like from the last CBA.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 11:04 AM EST up reply actions
That circumvents the current CBA, but who knows what the next CBA has in store.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:56 AM EST up reply actions
I don’t know how the buyout amnesty would work and it would be covered under the next CBA not this one.
In short: who knows? I’d pay Phaneuf about $4M a season I guess.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
Like the Flames.
Here’s a fun fact, they have one pick in the top 100 of the upcoming draft.
Also they traded away Chris Drury for nothing, totally forgot about that one.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 9:28 AM EST up reply actions
hey, remember how they traded a whole bunch of stuff for joikenin?
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 10:25 AM EST up reply actions
Yea, and then traded him away for some other crappy stuff, and then went out and re-signed him.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 10:27 AM EST up reply actions
and ian white and jamal mayers
The Belorussian buzz saw only has one setting:
HYPERDEATH!
- Certified Grabbo Lover
by Sergei Puckizin on Dec 29, 2010 10:28 AM EST up reply actions
This.
The Maple Leafs- making me certifiably insane since 1985.
by torleafsfan29 on Dec 29, 2010 10:24 AM EST up reply actions
you trade off players that won’t be helpful to this team in 3-5 years when they are (hopefully) competative, or if they are over payed by a dramatic amount
Mac doesn’t now, and will not fit that description for a bit
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:09 AM EST up reply actions
I wouldn’t object to taking the route Tallon took in Florida this summer, which was to get rid of a couple of players who brought in big returns. For Horton + Ballard they got two firsts, two decent roster players, and a solid prospect. That is the kind of deal a re-building team should be making.
Doing the Islanders routine of just constantly dumping anything of value for any return at all leads to exactly where the Islanders are – the bottom of the standings with little hope of getting better.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 9:17 AM EST up reply actions
I wouldn’t mind the florida route either, but the thing is the only players that might get us a first are players we need to keep
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:18 AM EST up reply actions
Tallon’s route is fine, but I really doubt Burke will do that.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:18 AM EST up reply actions
embracing tank nation 2012 are we?
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 8:51 AM EST up reply actions
no. I just think we can get assets back for a bunch of guys we have. It’s not like the Leafs can get much worse and I’d like to have a bit more freedom under the cap going forward.
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
i just dont think the Leafs will get fill value for him in a trade for him
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 8:55 AM EST up reply actions
Hard to imagine they would.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 8:55 AM EST up reply actions
He cost us nothing to acquire. Picking up a second rounder would be good value
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
it also depletes the Leafs terrible scoring even more. MacArthur is young, just now getting consistent top 6 mins and because he is a one year break out combined with an RFA status where the Leafs hold all the cards in contract negotiations why trade him for a player whose NHL ceiling is closer to Tim Brent than Clarke?
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:01 AM EST up reply actions
I’m all for retaining his services for a couple more seasons, as long as it’s at a reasonable rate, and for no longer than 2 years. The Leafs’ need to shed weight and cap off the back end and in goal. I’m not opposed to moving serviceable forwards either but I honestly don’t know who would be worth trading as far as reasonable return goes. Saying we need to get rid of guys like Mitchell or Lebda is fine, but they’re virtually worthless- I see Beauchemin and Giguere as our only two trade-able commodities, and hope to god that Kaberle “waives” goodbye at the deadline haha
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 9:07 AM EST up reply actions
Giggy’s cap-hit is gone at the end of the season so we don’t really need to shed any money back there, and the defense is pretty well solidified, except for Schenn.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 9:08 AM EST up reply actions
and schenn wont make much more (probably less) than his current cap hit
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:09 AM EST up reply actions
i see Schenn signing for somethign in the range of what Marc Staal did (cap hit a little under $4M, for a longish term)
Unabashed fan of the surprise 2012 Stanley Cup champs
it will probably be lower, since the only reason staals hit is so high is because of his payday in the final year of his signed deal
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 11:05 AM EST up reply actions
Schenn will command big dollars and term, and Giggy simply doesn’t “fall off the books” he needs to be replaced. Gustavsson may be the guy, reimer may be the guy eventually but nothing says that either is close to being an elite goalie…even if Gustavsson ends up being the guy, he’ll need a new deal and more $$$
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 9:21 AM EST up reply actions
schenn will command 4 mill MAX, which is 250K more than his cap hit
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:23 AM EST up reply actions
Well Giggy does in so much as his contract is gone. Yes he does need to be replaced, but whomever we sign as his replacement (that’s assuming we sign anyone) will be infinitely less expensive. Also, Jared finished my comment for me below.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 9:23 AM EST up reply actions
Schenn will command big dollars and term
Not sure why you think that. Think beyond the name-brand, he isn’t a 4M+ defenceman, ESPECIALLY since he’s an RFA.
Marc Staal got 4.5M/year, and Marc Staal right now is much better than Schenn. Think of that as an absolute worst case scenario.
Giggy simply doesn’t "fall off the books" he needs to be replaced.
Goaltending clearly needs to be addressed, but not at 6M. If they do Gus/Reimer, then we’re golden in terms of cap but will probably let 100000 pucks in. If we grab a FA goalie we’ll probably have to pay a bit more, but still gain a lot of room.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:24 AM EST up reply actions
Schenn is an expensive D-man, even at 4 mill per considering the fact that most people don’t even count re-signing him as a future cap expense- most people are just saying "well Giggy and Kaberle are off the books so we have X amount of dollars to spend on forwards-
Gustavsson will need to be re-signed or replaced shortly, Giggy will need to be replaced immediately, Schenn needs a new deal, MacArthur needs to be re-signed or replaced and all that expense to maintain the status quo… after which Burke can start figuring out how and if he can improve the team.
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 9:33 AM EST up reply actions
If you look at the numbers, it’s not nearly as bad as you might think. We have plenty of space as of now.
If we go out and sign a big free agent like Richards or Semin (both unlikely), then we can talk about major salary cap issues.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:35 AM EST up reply actions
Schenn’s actual cap hit for this year will probably be about $1.5 million. My best guess at his next contract would be something like Brent Seabrook got, so $3.5 million a year for 3-4 years. That’s a significant increase, but if the Leafs get rid of a defenseman (which they kind of have to) that still gives them an additional $2 million. Plus they’ve already got $3-4 million in space right now, plus Giguere’s $6 million is coming off the books, leaving the Leafs with roughly $10-$12 million to sign 2-3 players. There is no cap problem.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 9:37 AM EST up reply actions
And considering that the Leafs should be able to replace other players, like Mitchell and maybe Sjostrom, with similar, cheaper players, that could save them close to another million.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 9:38 AM EST up reply actions
to what end, though? we’re all talking about expenses to maintain, not enhance the team…it’s easy to say we’re not in cap trouble because we aren’t, but we stink, and simply retaining or replacing ineffective guys with cheaper ineffective guys gets us nowhere. If this team is to improve substantially next season, we will have cap issues because it will mean that he blew his wad on significant upgrades…there won’t be much coming our way at the deadline unless he can fleece someone ala the Phaneuf trade. My fear is simply that he spends a lot of money on keeping the team right where it is
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 10:12 AM EST up reply actions
what ineffective players are we talking about retaining?
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 10:14 AM EST up reply actions
I’m just saying that so long as the team fails miserably, the pieces are ineffective as it pertains to the whole. There will be discussions about resigning MacArthur and Kaberle, and many other players that have only served to maintain a level of ineptitude, and a lot of guys think that we simply let everyone walk and replace them with kids from the Marlies or cheaper spare parts- where does the team improve with that mentality…we just become a cheaper shitty team
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 10:48 AM EST up reply actions
you don’t trade away good and useful players for shit returns just because your team isnt good, losing effective players on a bad team is only a good idea if you want to tank into picks
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 10:51 AM EST up reply actions
who’s advocating a fire sale? certainly not me…simply stating that Burke has a lot of people he either needs to re-sign or replace and most of the solutions that circulate center around letting everyone walk and replace them all with kids or cheaper signings which improves the bottom line but does not improve the team.
Short-term, this team improves with free agent-signings so if the team is improved next year, there won’t be much money to go around when u consider all the factors- I’ll be scratching my head as to how anyone in management or coaching keeps their job next year if the Leafs fail to snag anyone via free agency, have no significant draft and pad the Bruins’ prospect depth and lose Kaberle and Giguere to free agency
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 11:30 AM EST up reply actions
Kaberle’s goal scoring this year has been a bit below normal, but his assist total is as good as it’s ever been. He’s currently 11th in assists among defencemen. The only player above Kaberle who isn’t playing on a very strong offensive team is Whitney. He’s currently got more assists per game than Doughty, Boyle, Timmonen, and a number of top defencemen on top teams. Obviously Kaberle’s not as good defensively as those guys are, but I think he’s better than he often gets credit for, and at any rate there aren’t a lot of defenders in the league who can skate and make plays like Kaberle can. He is a very valuable player, and very difficult to replace.
I don’t think we should re-sign him at any cost, I’d put a ceiling of about $5 million on a 3-4 year deal. But if we let him go, we’re not going to find anyone comparable as a free agent, so we’re going to be waiting a long time to find someone that good to replace him.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 11:38 AM EST up reply actions
they will never invest 5 mill per season over 4 or 5 years for Kabby, although I’m sure someone else will and it’ll be a huge mistake for whomever does it unless he’s the final piece in a Cup winner
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 11:45 AM EST up reply actions
Comparable players to Kaberle who were signed to smaller contracts as UFAs . . . aaaaaaaaaaand go!
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 11:46 AM EST up reply actions
can't think of many, you're right
but that doesn’t mean WE should be the ones to do it.
The idea that Kaberle should get a raise, for the same number of years, in 2010, with the Leafs where they are, and his age, is ridiculous.
I would welcome kaberle back next year, but not at any price. He need to take at least a $1M haircut but you’re right, he’ll get the money somewhere if he wants it
Unabashed fan of the surprise 2012 Stanley Cup champs
pump and dump baby
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 11:48 AM EST up reply actions
Look at what Niemi ended up getting from SJ, and how many cheap UFA goalies were on the market. Any more than $2mm and we’re overpaying.
The Maple Leafs- making me certifiably insane since 1985.
by torleafsfan29 on Dec 29, 2010 12:33 PM EST up reply actions
I'm on team keep-Kaberle-for-life.
Yes yes I know the logjam and resources tied up in D. If he we let him go, we’ll probably just start searching for another puck-moving defenseman though.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:09 AM EST up reply actions
there is no "logjam, this is a fallacy, the Leafs D is one of the worst in the league statistically, and easily the most over-paid. Kaberle won’t be returning whether they want him to or not IMO…
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 9:13 AM EST up reply actions
This is a good point. The logjam is more that none of the Leafs D is really moveable except for Beauchemin and Schenn. Kaberle has a no-trade and the rest are not that interesting to other teams because of contract+play.
by Leaf in Habland on Dec 29, 2010 9:15 AM EST up reply actions
2 out of 6 is not mostly over paid
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:15 AM EST up reply actions
Phaneuf, Komi, Lebda, Finger, that’s 4 of 8. At least Finger isn’t a problem in that regard.
I’m not saying I’m in favour of moving Kaberle or anything. And I also don’t really care if the D is “overpaid.” Since we don’t have anything to spend the money on right now anyway. It’s not like it is keeping us from trading for Brad Richards or something. Joe Niewendyk not being Darryl Sutter is what is keeping us from trading for Brad Richards.
by Leaf in Habland on Dec 29, 2010 9:18 AM EST up reply actions
and Lebda is bench/forward filler fodder now
if we are including him, then we include Aulie and Holzer since they played for the Leafs and its still leans towards most not over paid
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:20 AM EST up reply actions
Yeah, that’s true.
Like I said, I like the Leafs D.
by Leaf in Habland on Dec 29, 2010 9:21 AM EST up reply actions
It’s not the player, it’s the salary/term. Hey, if Kaberle wants a one year deal at 3 million, I’m ok with that. I’m not OK with a retirement contract
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
you know that’s not what he wants…he’s gonna get himself a 4 or 5 yr deal over 4.5 million per somewhere, and probably won’t be around to see the end of it.
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 9:16 AM EST up reply actions
gonchar got 5.5 for 3 years despite being older, someone will probably pony up something comparable, and probably for a year or two longer
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:19 AM EST up reply actions
Meh
I would be okay with a retirement contract, depending on salary of course.
If he we let him go, we’ll probably just start searching for another puck-moving defenseman though.
I really think this is going to be the biggest problem with just trading him at the deadline for picks.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:22 AM EST up reply actions
If he were to waive his no-trade, and the Leafs could get the kind of deal that Florida got for Ballard, I’d be happy with that. Agree with birky though that odds are he just walks.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 9:24 AM EST up reply actions
I'd be overjoyed with the type of return FLA got for Ballard for Kaberle.
If that offer was on the table for Kaberle last summer I’d be pissed if Burke didn’t take it.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:26 AM EST up reply actions
I doubt it was, but yes I agree.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 9:26 AM EST up reply actions
Well yes, that would “suck the balls” as they say.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:25 AM EST up reply actions
Though if Burke really does trade Beauchemin, like a lot of people seem to think he might, then I think that drastically increases the odds of a Kaberle re-sign.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 9:26 AM EST up reply actions
Trading Beauchemin will make me sad.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 9:27 AM EST up reply actions
Right now that is all hype. There has been no indication that anyone is interested in Beauch or that Burke is shopping him.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:27 AM EST up reply actions
If Beauch was available, someone would be interested
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:29 AM EST up reply actions
I don’t see how a team looking to add to their defense would not be interested
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:31 AM EST up reply actions
Maybe they would, but not at the price Burke is demanding.
I feel that’s likely what happened with Kaberle this summer. Beyond the rumours we heard, there were probably offers he scoffed at.
Could be similar to what he’s doing with Beauch.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:33 AM EST up reply actions
Wasn’t the best we got Ocsar Moller and a 1st or 2nd (from LA)
Also, Ryan Malone (which we wisely didn’t take)
i dont think either of those were more than fan speculation, the only “solid” offer we knew about was a 2nd and a prospect from the sharks
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 10:35 AM EST up reply actions
Both of those were speculation, no idea if either had validity.
As far as I know, we were never offered ANY package that included a 1st round pick.
Likely any LA trade would have been off the table the second they signed Willie Mitchell.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 10:38 AM EST up reply actions
Well, Burke very rarely goes public about players he wants to trade, and I think Beauchemin is really the only asset the Leafs have right now aside from the young guys we all want to keep, like Grabbo and Schenn.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 9:29 AM EST up reply actions
I’d say the best solution is to keep him for 4 more years and then re-evaluate. He might hit a wall like Gonchar did. (though I think Kaberle is way better than Gonchar ever was)
Mike Weber: Free to roam the ice and take stupid boarding penalties once more.
Sabres top-line center: Rob Niedermayer. Yes, you read that right.
Kaberle at his best has done nothing to change the state of the team…even during the past two seasons his “productive streaks” actually coincide with periods of futility as far as the team goes as a whole…Kaberle as worn out his welcome at both end u gotta think he wants to move on as well. I think the only thing left to be determined is the exit strategy, how badly Burke gets raked over the coals if or more likely when he walks for nothing.
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 10:34 AM EST up reply actions
Kabs will be gone one way or another… in fact if I was Burke I would approach Kaberle now about waiving that NTC now to avoid the media circus come Feb. but before that have contract talks to see what it will cost to resign him July 1st.
IMO he deserves at least once to play for something and have a chance to win after all these years with us. I’m no fan of his but I think he at least deserves a chance to win a cup somewhere and still know that if he wanted to return (hopefully a champion) he will be welcome back here, no questions asked.
"There's been four different Cup winners the last four years, and I got one of them (Anaheim) and it was a fighting team. We're playing it that way regardless." - B. Burke, Toronto Maple Leafs GM
Does Kaberle hold any loyalty to the team? Does he need to? Because if I’m him, I’m thinking okay I can either uproot my life now or wait a couple of months and walk in the offseason.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 11:23 AM EST up reply actions
I was speaking as a best case scenario, but if I was him, regardless of moving back here or not, I would want to win first and foremost.
But if I was him and I wanted to leave Toronto at the end of the season, having a NTC means you can ask Burke to trade you to a city you will want to live in and have your summer really mean it as having time off rather than spending it moving.
"There's been four different Cup winners the last four years, and I got one of them (Anaheim) and it was a fighting team. We're playing it that way regardless." - B. Burke, Toronto Maple Leafs GM
Oh I disagree, they can get much worse. I’d rather finish above the bottom five this year, and that’s not gonna happen if MacArthur gets traded.
The only reason to trade him is if the Leafs fall right to rock bottom in the standings, and there is no more realistic hope of avoiding the lottery.
Fire. Wilson. Now. Anger is more useful than despair.
by Peter de Chatham on Dec 29, 2010 9:03 AM EST up reply actions
Trading some of our best young players for picks sounds about the right thing to do in the second year of a rebuild.
"There's been four different Cup winners the last four years, and I got one of them (Anaheim) and it was a fighting team. We're playing it that way regardless." - B. Burke, Toronto Maple Leafs GM
His goal scoring seems in line with what Ubiquitous told us. Who knows, maybe he gets hot again, as long as he keeps putting up assists we’re cool.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 8:48 AM EST up reply actions
Well
“They say” that the main reason he stopped scoring was he stopped getting opportunities (i.e. kept getting pushed down the depth chart, playing less minutes)
Keeping him with Grabbo and Kulemin he’ll keep getting chances at least. Who knows though.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 8:51 AM EST up reply actions
He’s still putting up assists and not looking out of place on our team’s best line.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 8:52 AM EST up reply actions
Another way of putting it
He has 3 goals, 6 assists in his last 11 games.
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
by leafer1984 on Dec 29, 2010 9:49 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Rec’d.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 9:50 AM EST up reply actions
MacArthur has a career 14.5 shooting percentage and is shooting 14.8 with the Leafs, so ignoring the breakdown of 5 goals on 12 shots to start and only four goals since he’s not doing anything abnormal.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
remember our "improved" goaltending?
Anyone take a gander at our meteorically declining team save percentage? A BIG problem for this team, even in the post-Toskalol era is our goalies’ inability to win games for us…I’m not even asking for a steal, just win a win-able game. As "improved’ as they are from last year, the Leafs are still out-goaltended with regularity.
Reimer will save the day.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 9:02 AM EST up reply actions
Our goaltending hasn’t improved, I don’t think that’s a secret.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
WHAT!?!?!?
I don’t understand! When Steve mentioned this last week, quite a few folks here had strokes over the mere thought. Surely, this can’t be so Chemmy!
When I grow up, I want to be just like Godd Till
by blurr1974 on Dec 29, 2010 10:08 AM EST up reply actions
I’m recovering nicely from my stroke.
Giguere I can’t, won’t and haven’t defended.
Gustavsson I’m not ready to give up on. So I will defend his play.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Dec 29, 2010 10:19 AM EST up reply actions
I think you’re missing the point.
Nobody ever said Gustavsson can’t develop into something better, just that right now, he’s not getting the job done.
When I grow up, I want to be just like Godd Till
by blurr1974 on Dec 29, 2010 10:22 AM EST up reply actions
Right. I’m not saying Gustavsson is Toskala. He seems to be trying and doesn’t think he’s doing great.
Right now he’s awful, we’re hoping he turns it around.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
at least he’s young enough for us to be able to hang onto a little optimism.
The Belorussian buzz saw only has one setting:
HYPERDEATH!
- Certified Grabbo Lover
by Sergei Puckizin on Dec 29, 2010 10:28 AM EST up reply actions
Goalies can take a while to develop sometimes. Andrew Raycroft stopped 44 out of 46 last night for Dallas, for example.
Hockey Blog Adventure: New Post: Matt Kalman: Have you no sense of decency, sir? (I'm also on Twitter.) GO BRUINS! (and Wild!)
by Cornelius Hardenbergh on Dec 29, 2010 10:29 AM EST up reply actions
oh fuck you.
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
<3 you
Hockey Blog Adventure: New Post: Matt Kalman: Have you no sense of decency, sir? (I'm also on Twitter.) GO BRUINS! (and Wild!)
by Cornelius Hardenbergh on Dec 29, 2010 10:32 AM EST up reply actions
But that's not a fair comparison
I mean Dallas has that awesome Defense to help him….
oh wait.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 10:33 AM EST up reply actions
what a douchebag though.
The Belorussian buzz saw only has one setting:
HYPERDEATH!
- Certified Grabbo Lover
by Sergei Puckizin on Dec 29, 2010 10:34 AM EST up reply actions
plus he has shown that he has the talent, his issues are mental, not for lack of skill
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 10:29 AM EST up reply actions
his issues also consist of lebda, komisarek and gunnarsson playing like shite
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 10:41 AM EST up reply actions
So I don’t feel like dumping on Gustavsson, or speaking poorly about him. He has played some good hockey earlier in the season too. He’s young, inexperienced and inconsistent. Just like most of the team. Good play hasn’t lined up for the Leafs. Goaltending and D look good – frowards can’t score. Forwards start scoring, goalies can’t keep us in it.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Dec 29, 2010 10:37 AM EST up reply actions
I see no need for fans to dump on him. I don’t think he’s been the difference between playoffs and no playoffs.
Rip on Giggy all you want.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Dec 29, 2010 10:39 AM EST up reply actions
Our goalies have Senator-itis. Every time we think we have a saviour he ends up shitting the bed.
Go go Reimer start for Columbus. I hope. I for some reason don’t think RW will though. Because he likes to fuck with us. Like saying Lebda will be a scratch until the last second then instead scratching Kadri and playing Lebda.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:05 AM EST up reply actions
playing devil’s advocate here, but any interest from anyone in Burke going after Bryzgalov in the summer? He’s an elite goalie, IMO
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 9:09 AM EST up reply actions
plus they have a past relationship, it was Burke that expedited his move to Phoenix to allow him to play
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 9:10 AM EST up reply actions
Phoenix will lock him up asap,
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 9:11 AM EST up reply actions
this
I’d love to grab him, but all the big name goaltenders (except maybe Vokoun) will be locked up before July 1 for sure.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:12 AM EST up reply actions
Our goaltending is a sophmore and a declining veteran. Gustavsson started strong and is hitting a wall right now. This is his second time going through an 82 game NHL schedule, and the first time around he had injuries/illness to deal with. There is still time to improve and work on his game. I hope no Leaf fans have given up on him, yet.
I have no idea what his ceiling is though. My best guess is serviceable starter, perhaps not an all-star. Who knows if he’ll get there.
Giguere is most likely done.
The rest of our goalies are young, inexperienced at the NHL level and still developing.
The goaltending issue, like the rest of the roster, is on Burke.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Dec 29, 2010 9:48 AM EST up reply actions
I would say that theres a case to fire Burke already…. but thats just me.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 10:43 AM EST up reply actions
a case so weak it would be thrown out of court
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 10:43 AM EST up reply actions
not convinced… this team could very well never play a playoff game with burke as GM.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 11:00 AM EST up reply actions
and it could win the cup, assuming either at this point is premature
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 11:01 AM EST up reply actions
i know i know, it seems rash. But I still think this team is fucked for another couple years… and its on Burke. The rebuild should have been focused on drafting top end talent… but we’ve been down that road before a zillion times.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 11:06 AM EST up reply actions
if Burke had tanked for picks, that would have made the Leafs more likely to miss the playoffs during his whole tenure
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 11:07 AM EST up reply actions
he wouldnt have had to tank, the team was already bad enough. And whos to say that this team isnt more likely to make the playoffs with seguin + top 3 pick this year in a year or two then Kessel + nobody.
I dont usually want to rip on Burkie as im usually looking at the positives but each day i get more of a feeling of dread that this entire tenure is going to end up a complete nightmare and we are going to be right back at square 1 of a rebuild in another 4 years
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 11:15 AM EST up reply actions
or maybe i had a bad shawarma last night after the game and im a ittle gassy.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 11:16 AM EST up reply actions
i get more of a feeling of dread that this entire tenure is going to end up a complete nightmare and we are going to be right back at square 1 of a rebuild in another 4 years
particularly if he starts trading young prospects away in a desparate atttempt to fix the situation. He’s indicated he’s looking for a trade right now, so the only cards he’s holding are a bunch of prospects.
Burke seems to still think there’s a hope for a playoff run. My own feeling of dread seems to think that he’ll give away Schenn or Kadri for a veteran forward. My doomsday scenario is that he gives away both. A less damaging but still awful scenario is him giving away Gunnarsson and Aulie for a middling veteran.
Either way, the worst possible scenario is that Burke cobbles together a couple of first-round exits in 2012-2014 by emptying out the cubboard, which will also simultaneously deprive the leafs of top-end draft talent.
Fire. Wilson. Now. Anger is more useful than despair.
by Peter de Chatham on Dec 29, 2010 11:32 AM EST up reply actions
is their any indication that Burke will do that? Does he have a history of dropping prospects and picks on bandaid players? People keep thinking he will do this when it seems to be the opposite of what Burke has done
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 11:35 AM EST up reply actions
I dont think he will do this… I really hope he doesnt, what im afraid of is that this team never gets the top end talent needed to compete with the top teams in the league. The only way that I can see this Leaf team ever getting that type of guy is at the top of the draft and that opportunity is long gone, thanks to burke. Which is my main gripe.
I like the young guys on the leafs, they have good upside, but I dont see any of them being enough of a difference maker to make this team a legit playoff threat. Where do you go from there? Cross your fingers and pray burke steals someone off a roster who actually has a significant impact on the on ice success, signs a grade A free agent…. unlikely any time soon, or Kadri pans out to be an absolute stud.
I really hope that something unforseen happens in the next 2 years that shoots this team up the standings
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 11:40 AM EST up reply actions
how is it “long gone”? Legit first liners come out of late in the first round all the time, sometimes they come in later rounds.
Pretending you need to be picking first over all every year to get that player is a little short sighted. Sure it’s the highest percentage of a chance. But where was Perry drafted? getzlaf?
There are other ways to get first line quality talent too, The sharks didnt draft Heatly or Thorton, the Stars didn’t draft Richards or Ribiero
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 11:44 AM EST up reply actions
The Canucks were a lousy team when Burke took over, but they were good when he left. The Ducks were not an especially good team when Burke took over, but they won a Stanley Cup before he left. I don’t know what the end result will be for the Leafs, but they’re clearly a re-building team and I think Burke’s track record suggests we should give him a few years to see where the team is at. He hasn’t even been on the job for two years yet.
And, let’s be honest, there is absolutely zero chance the Leafs would fire Burke while still owing him like $15 million over the next few years.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 11:45 AM EST up reply actions
He hasn’t even been on the job for two years yet.
Actually he has. As of Novmeber 28, 2010 I think. Nitpicking
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Dec 29, 2010 11:51 AM EST up reply actions
im not saying fire him, i just mentioned that there could be a case for it…. but yea, i would give him more time.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 11:54 AM EST up reply actions
Cross your fingers and pray burke steals someone off a roster who actually has a significant impact on the on ice success, signs a grade A free agent
I agree, we have to hope Burke finds a way to do it. The Thornton trade was a steal and a half, and getting Heatley was right place right time. The Phaneuf deal hasnt translated into wins at this point like we hoped it would.
Drafting late in the 1st round would be nice as well, but we cant even do that until next year.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 11:53 AM EST up reply actions
Does he have a history of dropping prospects and picks on bandaid players?
Kessel trade – likely two lottery first round draft picks, and a 2nd, for a player who could immediately help the team.
Gerber pickup – fine, off of waivers, but de facto knocked the Leafs from the lottery, so it cost us a higher pick, for a definetely band-aid solution.
Phaneuf trade – two good secondary scorers for an underperforming “stud defenseman”, again a bandaid solution.
Versteeg trade – Stalberg, Paradis and DiDomenico for Versteeg. That’s THREE prospects for a player who can help immediately.
Enough of a history for you?
Fire. Wilson. Now. Anger is more useful than despair.
by Peter de Chatham on Dec 29, 2010 11:47 AM EST up reply actions
Kessel and Versteeg are bandaid solutions? In what world? I don’t especially like the Kessel trade, but he was clearly brought in as a developing young player for the long haul.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 11:49 AM EST up reply actions
also the Leafs got YOUNGER, and got a PROSPECT with the Phaneuf trade, Dion will be here for a few more years than any player traded would have been, Aulie even longer
Paradis and Dido have been absolutely brutal this year and Stalberg is both older than Versteeg AND becoming a concussion case
I’ll give you the Gerber pick up as a bandaid, but it is missing the other part of the guidline i set down for the choices
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 11:52 AM EST up reply actions
oh yeah, two more band-aid solutions to add to the list: the Kadri call up.
Kadri should be tearing it up with the Marlies right now, not sitting in the pressbox. Another short term “fix”, and the price will be paid in Kadri’s development.
Fire. Wilson. Now. Anger is more useful than despair.
by Peter de Chatham on Dec 29, 2010 12:34 PM EST up reply actions
Please. Do I need to bring up Burke’s quotes from the time of the trade about how he’s getting a player who can help the team NOW?
Also, for the long haul? Tell me, as Kessel ages, how likely are his shoulder problems to crop up again?
Fire. Wilson. Now. Anger is more useful than despair.
by Peter de Chatham on Dec 29, 2010 11:52 AM EST up reply actions
Kessel is 23
The “aging” and “injury-prone” arguement hardly applies.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 11:53 AM EST up reply actions
not to mention
Versteeg – 24
Phaneuf – 25
STOP TRADING AWAY FOR OVER THE HILL BANDAID FIXES BURKE!
Serious question, are you all 10 years old or something? When did mid-20s players become “old”…?
When I grow up, I want to be just like Godd Till
by blurr1974 on Dec 29, 2010 11:58 AM EST up reply actions
I want my juicebox.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 12:01 PM EST up reply actions
a player can be in their 20’s and still be a bandaid solution.
just because he’s young doesnt mean he’ll get any better.
Look at Kessel – he’s hardly playing like a superstar this year. Look at Phaneuf – he’s not playing like he did when he earned that 6 mil contract. Look at Versteeg – most comfortable on the third line; not a player who justifies three prospects.
All three were brought in to help the team NOW, at great expense, in either draft picks, prospects, or secondary assets.
It’s almost as if we traded for a bunch of 20 something year olds, but they’re playing like a bunch of has been geezers when they get here. They were brought in as bandaid solutions, and more importantly, they’re failing.
Fire. Wilson. Now. Anger is more useful than despair.
by Peter de Chatham on Dec 29, 2010 12:05 PM EST up reply actions
wait, so because players are having off years they are bandaids?
you keep saying that word but I do not think you know what it means
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:08 PM EST up reply actions
All three were brought in to help the team NOW, at great expense, in either draft picks, prospects, or secondary assets.
I still don’t get why you think this. They were brought for the future.
It’s almost as if we traded for a bunch of 20 something year olds, but they’re playing like a bunch of has been geezers when they get here. They were brought in as bandaid solutions, and more importantly, they’re failing.
Despite what you think about Versteeg, he’s still on pace for a career year. And he’s 24. He’s not a bandaid.
Kessel is struggling, but he can still pull it together in the next 3.5 years he’s under contract. He’s a damn good sniper when looked at over the course of a season.
I can’t really defend Phaneuf’s play so I’m not going to try, but he’s hardly old or a “bandaid”.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 12:08 PM EST up reply actions
Also, a player can be brought in to help now AND the future. I don’t see why this is a bad thing on its face.
because he’s not an unknown commodity of an18 year old
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:10 PM EST up reply actions
Right, but look at it this way: the reason old vets are considered band-aids is because their ceilings are known and they will eventually decline. There is no “upside”.
Let me ask you: where is the upside with Phaneuf, Kessel, and Versteeg? Kessel tops out at 30 goals. Versteeg is a third line role player. Phaneuf is a stay-at home 10 goal defenseman. Hoping for anything more from these three is a pipe dream.
Fire. Wilson. Now. Anger is more useful than despair.
by Peter de Chatham on Dec 29, 2010 12:17 PM EST up reply actions
PRO LEAFS BIAS
YOU’RE ALL SHEEPLE. GO START BAR FIGHTS AND STOP DRINKING KOOLAID IN YOUR BLUE AND WHITE GLASSES
When I grow up, I want to be just like Godd Till
by blurr1974 on Dec 29, 2010 12:19 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Wow
Let me ask you: where is the upside with Phaneuf, Kessel, and Versteeg? Kessel tops out at 30 goals. Versteeg is a third line role player. Phaneuf is a stay-at home 10 goal defenseman. Hoping for anything more from these three is a pipe dream.
Anyone else want to take this one? I’m done.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 12:19 PM EST up reply actions
Kessel tops out at 30 goals? are you kidding me?
Versteeg is a two time 20 goal scorer playing with offensive nobodies
both are 3-4 years away from their “prime” saying they are topped out is stupid is as stupid does
and did you call Phaneuf a stay at home defenseman? do you even watch the Leafs play?
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:19 PM EST up reply actions
Kessel tops out at 30 goals? are you kidding me?
Nope. His 36 goal season was clearly an abberation. Last year he scored 30. This year he’s on pace for about the same. Tell me, where do you see his upside? Is it his increased physical play? His grit along the boards? His playmaking ability? Maybe an increased defensive responsibility? Did you see any of these things improve? No? then he is what he is, and there’s no evidence to suggest otherwise.
and did you call Phaneuf a stay at home defenseman? do you even watch the Leafs play?
You’re right, he’s a “pinch at inopportune moments” defenseman. Which means he should stay at home!
Versteeg is a two time 20 goal scorer playing with offensive nobodies
Wait, didn’t we try putting him together with Kessel at the start of the season? How did that work out? Versteeg tops out as a third liner – look at his production improvement since he was moved to the third line. Again, he is what he is.
Fire. Wilson. Now. Anger is more useful than despair.
by Peter de Chatham on Dec 29, 2010 12:28 PM EST up reply actions
dear god you are bad at this
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:32 PM EST up reply actions
His 36 goal season was clearly an abberation. Last year he scored 30. This year he’s on pace for about the same.
You do remember he missed the first month of last season, right? He scored at the same rate last year as he did his 36-goal season. I could just as easily argue that THIS year is “clearly” the aberration.
and also note that this year he is playing with guys so bad at scoring that the other team ignores them and covers kessel with three players every time he enters the zone yet he is STILL on pace to be in the top 10 goal scorers in the NHL
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:34 PM EST up reply actions
Kessel should score goals on every shift even if he’s covered by 2 defensemen and has a gorrilla on his back. Duh.
Mike Weber: Free to roam the ice and take stupid boarding penalties once more.
Sabres top-line center: Rob Niedermayer. Yes, you read that right.
I think there’s there’s only like one or two guys that might be able to do that but you’d be a fool if you thought you could get that for two 1st and a 2nd!
"There's been four different Cup winners the last four years, and I got one of them (Anaheim) and it was a fighting team. We're playing it that way regardless." - B. Burke, Toronto Maple Leafs GM
2 1sts and a 2nd for:
Crosby or Ovechkin? (HAHAHAHAHAHA)
Thornton? Well, yes, there was a time he went for less but that is because Harry Sinden was a jackass (it was Sinden right?)
Kovalchuck went for a 1st, a recent first round selection (Bergfors), a recent second round selection (Cormier), and a roster player (Oduya)
And I’m not sure if Big Joe and Kovalchuk qualify as that kind of player. Definitley not Kovalchuk.
Kessel is a now AND future help, young players who arn’t in their prime tend to get better as they approach said prime
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 11:56 AM EST up reply actions
Kessel’s clearly not a bandaid.
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also, when someone asks you what 2+4+7 is you can’t say the answer is 11 because that is what 4+7 is
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:00 PM EST up reply actions
Fire Burke and Fire Wilson comments are all well and good
Until it comes to the point of naming a replacement for either.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 11:05 AM EST up reply actions
Darryl Sutter has recently become available. He could do both and MLSE would save on a salary. All they care about is money right?
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 11:26 AM EST up reply actions
just because the armchair GMs arent sure who would be a better replacement doesnt mean one doesnt exist. Peddie is gone by next christmas, it will be up to whoever takes over to make sure the right people are in place. If he/she still feels that Burkie is the right man for the job then so be it.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 11:30 AM EST up reply actions
We should sign an armchair GM to be actual GM! it would be like JFJ but twice as hilarious!
Mike Weber: Free to roam the ice and take stupid boarding penalties once more.
Sabres top-line center: Rob Niedermayer. Yes, you read that right.
Mike in Buffalo would become Mike in Toronto.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 11:41 AM EST up reply actions
Argument goes the other way
just because the armchair GMsarent sure who would be a better replacementthink Burke and Wilson should be fired doesnt meanone doesnt existwe’d be any better off.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 11:52 AM EST up reply actions
then we’re eternally fucked.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 1:21 PM EST up reply actions
I think there have been plenty of potential replacements for Wilson named over the past few weeks
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
Names?
I honestly haven’t heard any, maybe I’m not following closely enough.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 11:53 AM EST up reply actions
McTavish, Hitchcock, Andy Murray, John Stevens, Kirk Muller, should I go on?
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
Hitchcock and Burke have clashing philosophies so no. Kirk Muller is under contract and teams don’t usually let coaches go half way through the season. McTavish had one good year as coach of a team that relied very heavily on Chris Pronger and an unlikely run from Dwayne Roloson. Andy Murray might be a possibility, but that’s about it. Not exactly a great pool to choose from. Better to wait until the off-season when there will be a number of better candidates available.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 12:00 PM EST up reply actions
great, so bring him in as special teams coach
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:04 PM EST up reply actions
he’s probably going to get a shot as a head coach very, very soon. Have only heard good things about him out of MTL
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
so a rookie head coach? fantastic
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:08 PM EST up reply actions
poaching a coach from montreal has never worked out for the Leafs.
Fire. Wilson. Now. Anger is more useful than despair.
by Peter de Chatham on Dec 29, 2010 12:10 PM EST up reply actions
I’ve been pissing off all my friends who are Habs fans for weeks with my desire for the Leafs to snag Muller.
If Muller were to be offered a F/T head coach position of course the Habs would allow him to pursue it unless they are moments away from canning Martin.
Muller’s run arguably the best special teams units in the NHL for 3+ seasons with inferior talent to many others, and considering how well the Leafs have done in that regard he’s a great fit.
He also bridges a generational gap on a young team- many of the guys grew up watching him as an effective player on winning teams so there’s an element of identification and respect there- and finally no better time to allow a young coach to develop than with a young team that can grow with him.
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 12:16 PM EST up reply actions
I fucking hate Kirk Muller
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:17 PM EST up reply actions
The Habs would probably allow him to leave between seasons, but I can’t imagine they’d let him do it in the middle of a pretty succesful season, requiring an already good team to adjust to a new assistant coach just to help out a divisional rival.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 12:25 PM EST up reply actions
I would say that Wilson’s not gone till the off season anyways, and for the first time in what, 35 years? Lindy Ruff may be in the market for a job…if he’s available he’s my first choice, Muller’s my second
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 12:28 PM EST up reply actions
Lindy Ruff is the most over rated coach in the history of ever, we don’t have Hasek or Miller to make him look like a Adams winner when he is really pretty middle of the road
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:41 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
FLAGGED
Mike Weber: Free to roam the ice and take stupid boarding penalties once more.
Sabres top-line center: Rob Niedermayer. Yes, you read that right.
no, because he’s a folk hero. And a really good coach.
Mike Weber: Free to roam the ice and take stupid boarding penalties once more.
Sabres top-line center: Rob Niedermayer. Yes, you read that right.
you wouldn’t by chance be a jaded Leafs’ fan would you? If u are and hate him because of his success against the Leafs you should pay close attention to how badly he’s out-coached every Leafs coach he’s encountered (particularly Pat Quinn) since he began his tenure with the Sabres- wasn’t all Hasek and Miller
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 12:46 PM EST up reply actions
I never said he was a bad coach, I said he was an average coach, but I should clarify I think he is a decent above average coach.
Just not the demi god everyone seems to paint him as.
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:48 PM EST up reply actions
Don't write 'u'
Buffalo’s owned the Leafs since they came into the league. Not sure it’s a sign that Ruff ‘outcoached’ Quinn (Maurice is easy to outcoach).
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
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I still think Buffalo’s dominance of Toronto came directly from a displeased Punch Imlach.
Mike Weber: Free to roam the ice and take stupid boarding penalties once more.
Sabres top-line center: Rob Niedermayer. Yes, you read that right.
Agree
The ghost of Punch’s revenge.
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.
When he hasn’t had either great goalie how good’s the team been?
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.
The only time he didn’t have a good goalie the team was in a firesale, so we can’t really know.
Mike Weber: Free to roam the ice and take stupid boarding penalties once more.
Sabres top-line center: Rob Niedermayer. Yes, you read that right.
Fair point.
I don’t think he’s a BAD coach but I don’t think he’s a great coach. He’s good.
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.
He’s no Mike Babcock, but he’s certainly good. Also a folk hero.
Mike Weber: Free to roam the ice and take stupid boarding penalties once more.
Sabres top-line center: Rob Niedermayer. Yes, you read that right.
Yes
He’s a good argument for why you shouldn’t can coaches every time things get bad when they’ve had success before in that same city.
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.
I wasn't being a smartass, I literally hadn't heard any of those names.
I don’t know enough about any of them to know if they are any better than what Ronny W is throwing down.
MacT would be… interesting.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 12:02 PM EST up reply actions
why!?
Is Kadri sitting over JFM? I don’t get it..
You and me both, brother. You and me both.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:22 AM EST up reply actions
Nice quote from Grabbo
"I have opportunity for shoot right now"
When you have opportunity for shoot, you take it.
by Leaf in Habland on Dec 29, 2010 9:22 AM EST reply actions
Thanks to nhlcheapshot for the idea last night:
http://theleafsnation.com/2010/12/29/post-lockout-average-goaltending
Pension Plan Puppets*
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Nice
thanks for doing the legwork on that.
Our goalies suck.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:54 AM EST up reply actions
Of goaltenders with 100GP post lockout, ranked by save percentage, four of the bottom seven are Toskala, Raycroft, Belfour and Joseph. Want to know why we haven’t been to the playoffs? That’s why.
Toss in Gustavsson and we have five of the bottom 12.
Pension Plan Puppets*
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But but but
Fire Wilson, amiright?
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 9:57 AM EST up reply actions
Have to agree, the goaltending has been a joke since the lockout
Burke is the type of guy who will take a big shit on the floor right in front of you and then tell you straight faced that it wasn’t him. -Skinnyfish 12/3/10
by Future_considerations on Dec 29, 2010 10:09 AM EST up reply actions
We’ll get to test Burke’s reputation on this one though. He waived Bryzgalov to get him playing time while with Anaheim.
If doing the right thing for a player brings Bryz here instead of elsewhere maybe it’s not as ludicrous as some of us think. Of course Bryzgalov might not get an offer or might re-sign with Phoenix but it’ll be interesting to see.
Pension Plan Puppets*
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If he goes to FA, you have to think Burke would have a leg up on that sweepstakes.
Mike Weber: Free to roam the ice and take stupid boarding penalties once more.
Sabres top-line center: Rob Niedermayer. Yes, you read that right.
Really hard to say about any contracts in Phoenix right now, although with that new owner things might stabilize.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 10:14 AM EST up reply actions
Was Toronto worse than Phoenix when he got waived? We shoulda claimed him if we were.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 10:13 AM EST up reply actions
No we were 2nd in the waiver wire.
Pension Plan Puppets*
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we had toskala. so, yes.
The Belorussian buzz saw only has one setting:
HYPERDEATH!
- Certified Grabbo Lover
by Sergei Puckizin on Dec 29, 2010 10:14 AM EST up reply actions
right, and we had that guy.
The Belorussian buzz saw only has one setting:
HYPERDEATH!
- Certified Grabbo Lover
by Sergei Puckizin on Dec 29, 2010 10:15 AM EST up reply actions
HEY!
he picked up Moore off the waiver wire so….
ummm
ditto
When I grow up, I want to be just like Godd Till
by blurr1974 on Dec 29, 2010 10:16 AM EST up reply actions
That summer we traded a first and second for Toskala and Mark Bell.
Bryzgalov was waived three months later. Did JFJ not call Burke? Hindsight is 20/20 but I remember wanting Bryzgalov because of his hilarious videos and his being available was public knowledge at the trade deadline.
Pension Plan Puppets*
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there were also 2 or 3 other better goalies available for free that summer, Legace was one I think
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 10:17 AM EST up reply actions
also
fuck you JFJ
When I grow up, I want to be just like Godd Till
by blurr1974 on Dec 29, 2010 10:18 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Seconded.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 10:33 AM EST up reply actions
I like the optimism
If Burke’s reputation is as good as he thinks it is, it’d be nice if we start getting some of the long-term benefits soon.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 10:17 AM EST up reply actions
oooo. I love the pics
I think 0.910 is a reasonable number to expect year on year for a “good” goalie, not great, not terrible.
I agree. I remember reading or hearing Giguere talk about (sorry no link) how it was important for him to keep his Save % above 91%, and I have to agree – that’s a number that says you’re giving your team a chance to win. You are doing your part.
Also, Olaf Kolzig sits in 47th and was technically a Leaf.
Reading that mostly made my head and heart hurt. Thanks.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Dec 29, 2010 10:00 AM EST up reply actions
For example last night Gustavsson went 23/27. If he had a .910 last night he would only allow 2.43 goals.
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Had Komisarek known how to pick up his man in front and Mitchell knew how to get it deep, he would have allowed only a single
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
Only the first goal last night is his fault.
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I agree.
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
One bad goal is the difference between winning and losing. The Leafs would have had the lead instead of it being 3-3 and would have been able to collapse and play defensive hockey.
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It’s a fine line to be sure.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 10:09 AM EST up reply actions
would have been able to collapse and play defensive hockey.
They were having trouble doing that when the game was tied.
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
Generally you don’t sit back and do nothing with the score tied.
Pension Plan Puppets*
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My point is they couldn’t handle the Canes pressure in their own zone with the score tied, never mind when they are attacking.
3/4 goals were attributed to poor decision making and defensive coverage
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
…but 20 teams have what used to be considered superstar-level goaltending. The “eyes test” no longer really works, because other goalies are taking shots that wouldn’t be their fault if they went in, and stopping them.
The elderly: They may seem friendly, but can they really be trusted?
until mid december, Gus was making about 3 saves every game he had no buisness stopping
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 1:31 PM EST up reply actions
indeed, it was great to see. Its too bad hes in a bit of a slump but we have to hope he gets back to playing very well. Like you mentioned earlier, he has all the tools to be a #1, its just mental issues right now. I wouldnt be surprised to him put together another great string of games.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 29, 2010 1:33 PM EST up reply actions
Until the end of November you mean. December didn’t go so well – one game over .900.
The elderly: They may seem friendly, but can they really be trusted?
in early december he got roasted a few times because his team let him, he was still making ten beller saves with frequency though
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 1:36 PM EST up reply actions
I agree that the flashes were there to my eyes; but the point is that in the NHL, for every soft goal, you need to be making 10 hard saves.
I’m encouraged that Gus shows the potential to make the big saves, but he needs to show consistency more than brilliance, frankly.
The elderly: They may seem friendly, but can they really be trusted?
someone mentioned he hurt himself blocking a shot and didnt play after the 1st, is that correct?
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 10:22 AM EST up reply actions
That was Gunnarson
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
meh, if he continues to suck, he gets fingerized when one of the kids takes over
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 10:24 AM EST up reply actions
He was benched hard last night.
I saw a few tweets saying he only played about 1m of ice in one of the periods, the 2nd maybe?
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 10:22 AM EST up reply actions
Remember when he was in the discussion to play for Team USA last year? ME EITHER
Hockey Blog Adventure: New Post: Matt Kalman: Have you no sense of decency, sir? (I'm also on Twitter.) GO BRUINS! (and Wild!)
by Cornelius Hardenbergh on Dec 29, 2010 10:23 AM EST up reply actions
If he wasn’t injured, he would have been
Fairweather fans can go to hell
Equal oppurtunity asshole and a proud member of the PPPPP
Follow me on twitter: leafer1984
Komisarek was on the initial roster rolled out. That GM of Team USA must know something we don’t…oh shit never mind.
The Maple Leafs- making me certifiably insane since 1985.
by torleafsfan29 on Dec 29, 2010 12:44 PM EST up reply actions
Late reply, but the Staal breakaway was hideous. It never should have happened, sure, and if Gus had given it an honest shot I would be talking about the D, but Gus doesn’t come out and challenge, doesn’t skate back in with the shooter, and he gets caught flatfooted. He watched the first half of the play.
The experiment failed: Get rid of the trapezoid.
For sure. Goalies should hold themselves to that standard, and leave blaiming the D and forwards for poor coverage to the D, Forwards and Coaches. It makes for good teammates, team chemistry, intangibles and all that crap.
I still think Gustavsson can improve his game. I don’t think it’s end of the line for him. Same for Bozak – a couple of sophmore slumps for both, getting used to an 82 game NHL schedule.
Giguere looks like he’s done. Or he’ll have that magical rehab that Tim Thomas did this summer, and play great for some other team.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Dec 29, 2010 10:07 AM EST up reply actions
As far as the Leafs' goalies go...
I guess the man to ask is Francois Allaire, and what I’ve heard from him is that he’s had his share of elite goalies, his share of average goalies and his share of poor ones and his impressions of all the kids in our stable is that they’re all “projects that could have some potential upside”…this team needs a stellar goalie and if they have any shot at snagging a guy like Bryz they have to make it an equal priority with bringing in frontline offensive talent, IMO.
This team has zero strengths
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 10:38 AM EST up reply actions
IT HAS GRABBO!!!!
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 10:48 AM EST up reply actions
I can’t disagree.
I’d love the Leafs to sign Bryzgalov. Gustavsson isn’t set to be a starter in the NHL. Probably won’t know his true ceiling until the end of next season.
My guess is Bryz’s numbers would take a hit playing for the Leafs. Not because of bad dumb luck or the curse of the Leafs or anything. Because he’d have a pretty poor team playing in front of him.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Dec 29, 2010 10:49 AM EST up reply actions
I’d rather spend the money on a scoring forward. The Leafs have good young goalies they can develop, they don’t have much (if any) true top line talent in the system, if there is room for both, sure, if you absolutly cannot get a scoring forward, sure
but priorities should go on the front line
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 10:53 AM EST up reply actions
It depends on a few factors obviously. Look at whats available and take your pick;
Richards 5Y 8M hit
Richards 8-9Y 5-6M hit
Semin 8Y 7M hit
Bryzgalov 6-7Y 5ishM hit (guessing that the goalie market is depressed)
Bryzgalov 4-5Y 6ishM hit
Of course, Bryz could cost us more. But looking at that, I’d honestly take Bryzgalov. I think he’d give us a fighting chance every year, and give us time to develop our own guys. Plus, he’s only playing 50-60, and if we can develop Gus/Reimer/Jusii/Scrivens than we can trade some of them or trade Bryz.
anyone who offers that much for that long to Semin is a fool
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 11:05 AM EST up reply actions
I think it’s what he’ll get. Now, he has cooled down quite a bit, but Im guessing he’ll heat up again. Not saying I want Semin at that price, just guessing as to what it will cost for us to get him. My guess is still that he goes to LA, and he might even take a discount to go there (but he ain’t taking a discount to come here).
Again, don’t disagree. There are holes. Fill ’em when and where you can.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Dec 29, 2010 11:07 AM EST up reply actions
This comment is ripe for really dirty jokes.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 11:10 AM EST up reply actions
you’re right, but there’d be no doubt in anyone’s mind that there is indeed an NHL goalie in there. It would be the first of about a dozen “things to do” crossed off the list haha
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 10:54 AM EST up reply actions
anyone that thinks a Bryz resigning in Phoenix is a done deal...
dchesnokov just posted this on Twitter: Bryzgalov on why the Coyotes win more away games than home: “Maybe because more people come to see us play? It’s more interesting to play.” sound like a guy that’s happy to be there?
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 12:32 PM EST up reply actions
Phoenix has 33 million dollars in cap space next year, Unless they can get Vokun on the cheap, they are throwing bags of money at Bryz to get him to stay
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:35 PM EST up reply actions
I can’t see anyway Bryz leaves PHO… unless he really holds out for a payday, which would mean we’d need to severely overpay to get him.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 12:37 PM EST up reply actions
They don’t really have bags of money to throw at him. Now bags, they’ve probably got plenty of those.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 12:50 PM EST up reply actions
But they might need those to pack things up so how about they just offer him a firm handshake?
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
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someone mention ballsile, we need the Hair to weigh in
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:54 PM EST up reply actions
PHOENIX IS A HORRIBLE HOCKEY MARKET AND SHOULD PROBABLY BE DEPORTED TO MEXICO BECAUSE IT IS SUCH A HORRIBLE CITY.
did it work? (probably not because Hair moved to Utah.)
Mike Weber: Free to roam the ice and take stupid boarding penalties once more.
Sabres top-line center: Rob Niedermayer. Yes, you read that right.
They could offer him a couple of those whiteout tshirts from last year’s playoffs.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 1:01 PM EST up reply actions
I’ll cut the boys some slack because of all the white road trip horrors. You could see the effort, unfortunately effort doesn’t cut it anymore. Only a W does.
GWWWHAAAA!
by Mislav Xterratu Jantoljak on Dec 29, 2010 10:04 AM EST reply actions
Well
It didn’t look like the road trip had any effect on their play. They played hard, were passing great, had speed, we just had some defensive and goaltending breakdowns when it mattered.
Also Ward played pretty well.
It sucks to say but they just got beat, and the weather situation probably didn’t have a lot to do with it.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 10:06 AM EST up reply actions
Dare I say – out goaltendered by a more experienced keeper?
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Dec 29, 2010 10:08 AM EST up reply actions
Cam Ward was good. Gustavsson was average-to-less-than-good.
Weird penalties being thrown around too. It was a weird game. Entertaining though.
Grabbo reminds us that he is both good AND still a bit crazy.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 10:15 AM EST up reply actions
I’ve not even bothered to vote for the all-star game because, it’s the all-star game, but I’m starting to think we should start a grass roots campaign to get Grabbo there as a write in.
When I grow up, I want to be just like Godd Till
by blurr1974 on Dec 29, 2010 10:17 AM EST up reply actions
Probably should. He’s been the Leafs best player, on the whole this year.
BS
by MapleLeafMole on Dec 29, 2010 10:18 AM EST up reply actions
i expect everyone here would.
The Belorussian buzz saw only has one setting:
HYPERDEATH!
- Certified Grabbo Lover
by Sergei Puckizin on Dec 29, 2010 10:29 AM EST up reply actions
GRABBO!!!!!!!!!
GRABBO would then start his own write in campaign for Jay Harrison so he could go all pineapples on him during the All-Star game.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 10:35 AM EST up reply actions
I hope harrison becomes the next kostitsyn.
The Belorussian buzz saw only has one setting:
HYPERDEATH!
- Certified Grabbo Lover
by Sergei Puckizin on Dec 29, 2010 10:37 AM EST up reply actions
I had to go out last night, so i started DVRing the game with about 15-20 minutes left. When I got back home, I turned on the game, and Carolina scored their 4th almost right after.
Sad to say, I just stopped the playback and deleted the game, because I already knew the score… :(
When I grow up, I want to be just like Godd Till
by blurr1974 on Dec 29, 2010 10:12 AM EST reply actions
Oh. It was actually a pretty entertaining game. Ignoring wins and losses the Leafs scored some pretty goals and looked dangerous all night, Carolina won because their goaltending was much better than ours.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
i saw the first and second, and most of the third, so I did enjoy the effort. Just tired of the result.
When I grow up, I want to be just like Godd Till
by blurr1974 on Dec 29, 2010 10:15 AM EST up reply actions
Morning
Grabbo is awesome.
Hey, if you’re gonna call us birds you might as well call us chickens.
The universe moves depending on where Sidney Crosby is on the ice - IHeartPenguins
Recently-converted Certified Grabbo lover
ONE TEA-
Oh, I mean, uh, yeah!
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
I wish the Habs blog on SBN was more active, we could remind them all of how awesome Grabbo is.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 11:05 AM EST up reply actions
We’d just get banned immediately.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 11:06 AM EST up reply actions
Worth it.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 11:14 AM EST up reply actions
Injury bug bites again
The Pittsburgh Penguins will be without Mike Comrie for three to four months after the veteran forward underwent successful hip surgery.
Was a low-risk signing, but it did not pay off. Wasn’t doing much with his icetime anyway.
20 miles to Legoland!
He still got icetime?
Hockey Blog Adventure: New Post: Matt Kalman: Have you no sense of decency, sir? (I'm also on Twitter.) GO BRUINS! (and Wild!)
by Cornelius Hardenbergh on Dec 29, 2010 11:13 AM EST up reply actions
Apparently he was kind of hurt the whole time. Meh, low tisk so it don’t matter. And the Pens can now use the cap space to bring up a kid or something right?
Heh
he was only taking up 500k. Not exactly a cap-killer.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 11:18 AM EST up reply actions
I’m going to say it:
Grabbo doesn’t get talked about because he is Belarussian (and therefore enigmatic, lacks heart, plays for a paycheck etc.). Even if he was a Swede or Fin he’d get more media love. And if he was a good Canadian boy? He’d be a folk hero.
Maybe i’m reading too much into this, seeing hockey racism where there isn’t any. And maybe because I don’t read the MSM much anymore i’m missing good things being said about him. But I have definitly heard the “Grabbo’s OK, but you can’t win with him” nonsense.
I think
Grabbo is getting lots of love lately, and he’s deserved it.
But I have definitly heard the "Grabbo’s OK, but you can’t win with him" nonsense.
I haven’t heard this since the summer, and he has continued to shut up haters with every game. Even the Sun’s Steve Simmonds said yesterday that he was one of the biggest Grabbo-haters and he keeps getting proved wrong.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 11:17 AM EST up reply actions
And maybe because I don’t read the MSM much anymore i’m missing good things being said about him
Gotta love caveats baby! I’d rather be wrong about this, so if he is getting MSM love that is great news.
Grabbo love
Here (Gazette), Here (Sun) and Here (G&M).
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 11:24 AM EST up reply actions
From the Sun article
Of course, I’m a little bit mad about that. It was a dirty play," he said. "But we play them a few more times against Carolina and we’ll see next game."
FUCK YEA!
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 11:42 AM EST up reply actions
Had the same thought this morning, if he was from Saskatchewan we’d be building statues already.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 11:38 AM EST up reply actions
I have a dream, that one day our hockey players will not be judged by the cattle and beaver to person population ratio of their hometown, but by the quality of their play
Hockey Blog Adventure: New Post: Matt Kalman: Have you no sense of decency, sir? (I'm also on Twitter.) GO BRUINS! (and Wild!)
by Cornelius Hardenbergh on Dec 29, 2010 11:40 AM EST up reply actions
Poor Rolston. At least he gets it.
@TGfireandice: Rolston has a no-trade in his contract, but said he would accept a trade to any team.
Brian Rolston: “I’m just hoping to get picked up by a team in re-entry. I’ve had a good career. For it to come down to this is tough.”
@Ledger_NJDevils: Brian Rolston: “My contract is high. I think that’s a big part of this. I know I have a lot of hockey left in me.”
Apparently he’s slated to his re-entry waivers at noon.
20 miles to Legoland!
Bummer for a guy who played for my 2 favorite teams. Please don’t come back.
Hockey Blog Adventure: New Post: Matt Kalman: Have you no sense of decency, sir? (I'm also on Twitter.) GO BRUINS! (and Wild!)
by Cornelius Hardenbergh on Dec 29, 2010 11:33 AM EST up reply actions
I won’t be ecstatic, but also not entirely surprised if Rolston is a Leaf once he hits re-entry.
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 11:48 AM EST up reply actions
About godamn time
@DavidAmber
#Leaf fans Kadri has been assigned to Marlies.
Time to burn off that suspension.
20 miles to Legoland!
haha saw that one coming…going into the xmas break i figured he’d have 5 games to do something to give him some confidence or they’d send him back..an offensively talented kid on a crappy team who’s not producing is as close to the kiss of death as it gets for confidence
by Matt Di Franco on Dec 29, 2010 11:51 AM EST up reply actions
lulz, there is a rumour going around that the Islanders are going to trade for Semin
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:11 PM EST reply actions
Oh ya that’d be a smart move. I’m surrrrrrrrre he’d want to sign long-term there this summer.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 12:12 PM EST up reply actions
Alex, do you want to live in New York City?
Hockey Blog Adventure: New Post: Matt Kalman: Have you no sense of decency, sir? (I'm also on Twitter.) GO BRUINS! (and Wild!)
by Cornelius Hardenbergh on Dec 29, 2010 12:14 PM EST up reply actions
makes zero sense for the Islanders unless they can send Dipietro back
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:14 PM EST up reply actions
DiPietro should play the winter classic because it’ll be so cold it’s like he’s icing his whole body.
Hockey Blog Adventure: New Post: Matt Kalman: Have you no sense of decency, sir? (I'm also on Twitter.) GO BRUINS! (and Wild!)
by Cornelius Hardenbergh on Dec 29, 2010 12:15 PM EST up reply actions
he would freeze solid and shatter when he fell over and hit the ice like he was dipped in liquid nitrogen
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 12:16 PM EST up reply actions
LOL what a dick move by the Preds
The Nashville Predators have prevented the St. Louis Blues from signing forward Marek Svatos, by claiming him off waivers Wednesday.
http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=347225
20 miles to Legoland!
HA I knew someone was going to do it.
Nashville is three points behind St. Louis. This is more to keep St. Louis from improving than anything else.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 1:11 PM EST up reply actions
I wonder if something similar will happen if Nabokov tries to sign.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 1:15 PM EST up reply actions
Nashville also loves waivers.
Mike Weber: Free to roam the ice and take stupid boarding penalties once more.
Sabres top-line center: Rob Niedermayer. Yes, you read that right.
Dick move.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 1:30 PM EST up reply actions
Why? Nashville has scoring issues.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
Seems as though St. Louis did all the leg work, and Svatos wanted to play there, now he has to play in Nashville instead.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 1:35 PM EST up reply actions
Then why didn’t they make the move to get him from his KHL team?
He raged at the world, at his family, at his life. But mostly he just raged.
Jay McClement for Selke in 2011. Justice will be served. Penalties will be killed.
Are you upset that your front office did some work?
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
Im upset a guy who would have helped my team has been denied me by a team with 1 less point.
He raged at the world, at his family, at his life. But mostly he just raged.
Jay McClement for Selke in 2011. Justice will be served. Penalties will be killed.
Should have lost a few more games then.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 4:15 PM EST up reply actions
Dick move sure, but that doesn’t mean they can’t do it.
Being a dick never stopped anybody from being a winner.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 1:41 PM EST up reply actions
Dicks who don’t win get buried pretty fast. That’s a selection issue.
The elderly: They may seem friendly, but can they really be trusted?
Then you gotta make sure you’re a dick that does win. Professional sports is like that. It’d be nice to win while being seen as a nice person, but I bet most fans don’t care either way as long as their team wins.
If Nashville gets anywhere with Svatos nobody in Nashville is going to lament the fact they hurt some feelings in St. Louis.
Professional cusser causer.
by T is for Truculence on Dec 29, 2010 1:48 PM EST up reply actions
Wonder if this increases the odds that the Blues try to pick up Rolston on waivers today. My guess is yes.
by Draglikepull on Dec 29, 2010 1:51 PM EST up reply actions
As long as it’s not Burke, I couldnt’ really care. Though I would laugh if no one claimed him even at half the cap hit.
Then NJ is stuck with him for life unless they can find a desperate enough trade partner and take bad salary back.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 1:54 PM EST up reply actions
The islanders will claim Rolston.
He raged at the world, at his family, at his life. But mostly he just raged.
Jay McClement for Selke in 2011. Justice will be served. Penalties will be killed.
We’ll see tomorrow, won’t we.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 29, 2010 4:48 PM EST up reply actions
Love it.
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.
in other news
Kadri’s been sent down to the Marlies
When I grow up, I want to be just like Godd Till
by blurr1974 on Dec 29, 2010 1:35 PM EST reply actions
oops
forgot the link
http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2010/12/29/kadri_demoted/
When I grow up, I want to be just like Godd Till
by blurr1974 on Dec 29, 2010 1:38 PM EST up reply actions
Give Grabovski props, dangerous every game, plays smart, and even willing to fight once in a blue moon. Our best forward except when he’s our second best forward. He should get an A instead of Komaserik and Beauch.
you don’t give an A to someone because they are a better player, you give someone an A because they are a better leader
I love Grabbo as much as anyone, but except for the “by example” factor, I havn’t seen anything from him that would make him a leader
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 2:00 PM EST up reply actions
His broken English grammar would make for some awesome pre or mid game speeches though.
Never Explain. Your friends do not need it and your enemies will not believe it anyway - Elbert Hubbard
Twitter is the thing with all the tweets...
You see this pineapple? You see?
Grabbo proceeds to eviscerate the pineapple with a large hunting knife.
I will cut you like I did pineapple if you do not hustle and win the game.
Maple Leafs win a record 47 games in a row and sweep all four rounds of the playoffs enroute to their first Stanley Cup victory in 44 years.
Certified Grabbo Lover
by SkinnyFish on Dec 29, 2010 2:20 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
the ACC also announces a brand new addition to the snack menu, pineapple upside down cake!
Rule #20
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 29, 2010 2:22 PM EST up reply actions
WJC related
Kassian, 2 Slovaks suspended 2 games for questionable hits in yesterdays games.
Jerry D’Amigo was the recipient of one of the questionable hits, though he seems to be okay.
20 miles to Legoland!
He tweeted something about it, there was a rain drop analogy in there, I don’t remember.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 29, 2010 2:07 PM EST up reply actions
Story of Matt Frattin
Frattin Has Found the Right Path
Meanwhile, his standing as a prospect is surging. Frattin has scored a staggering 17 goals in 20 games. Seniors notoriously feed on younger players but the goal scoring totals have generated talk of a Hobey Baker award for the 22-year-old.
"I don’t think I’ve seen anyone who can pull the trigger as quickly and shoot the puck as accurately as he can," said Dave Hennessey, the voice of the Fighting Sioux for 31 years.
"He’s a power winger. When he wants to, he just completely owns the game. There are times you think he’s playing in the wrong league. He should be playing in that other league."
20 miles to Legoland!
we’ll see what happens. He’ll probably sign and finish the season w/ the Leafs or Marlies. He’s also 23 in a couple of days, meaning he’s got a huge experience edge of other players in the NCAA
Negative. I am a meat popsicle.
It sounds like he had / has a lot of personal demons to overcome as well. I’ll continue to use the term “wild card” whether people like it or not.
20 miles to Legoland!
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 30, 2010 7:11 AM EST up reply actions
If he was European we’d call him an enigma.
The Leafs are my Rushmore
Certified Grabbo Lover and member of the PPPPP
by Plea From A Cat Named Felix on Dec 30, 2010 8:45 AM EST up reply actions
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