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Jake Gardiner is making like an unwanted guest, and the Toronto Maple Leafs could not be happier.
The Leafs’ defence is supposed to be a closed shop heading into the NHL season, with the seven roster jobs locked up. Training camp would decide who will get the job as the sixth defenceman and who will spend most of his time in the press box – Carl Gunnarsson or Mike Komisarek.
But as the days go by, Gardiner is taking the accompli out of fait accompli. The 21-year-old native of Deephaven, Minn., is the best defenceman at camp. This may require some more deliberation by the Leafs’ brain trust before the start of the regular season, but no one is complaining.
"We smile," said Leafs vice-president of hockey operations Dave Poulin, who was the only big shot around Sunday to announce 14 cuts from the roster. Everyone else, including the players, had the day off.
Forwards – Caputi, Zigomanis, Hamilton, Colborne, D’Amigo, Marcel Mueller, Kenny Ryan and Greg Scott.
Defence – Finger, Holzer, Blacker, Simon Gysbers, Juraj Mikus.
Goaltender – Owuya.
No real surprises there. Still have battles on the 3rd and 4th lines, and the 3rd defensive pairing. Should come right down to the wire. More links after the jump.
