Ok - I've given up on believing the Leafs are a playoff team in 2009/2010. I knew it, but Wednesday night's loss on the Island sealed it. Plain and simple these Leafs aren't good enough. The effort is constant and worth applause. The failure to execute, semi-constantly, makes of lot that effort worthless in the end. It's tough to watch. Tonight though, easy to accept. The Leafs are what they are: a bunch of guys who wear the Blue and White. Regardless of their output, I'm proud they're Leafs.. and hoping they're not exactly proud of how things are going. When the Leafs of tomorrow finally reach the playoffs many of the Leafs of today won't be part of it. Until then I'm expecting whomever wears the colours we bleed to represent us with dignity. Without success for so long now, our self respect is really all we have.
No Leaf needs a break more than Phil Kessel. He's labouring out there. And worse, not contributing. He's what, a $5 million dollar a year player? Sorry to tell ya, that's a player who must produce. At a million less per it's what we ask of Jason Blake. Perhaps of a couple of days off and a bit of a reset for the young American will get him back in gear? What would help Phil's cause... his team helping a bit more. The Leafs are getting their shots, but too many of them end up in the pads of defenders OR off the end boards. Honestly though, the Leafs must lead the league in having their shots blocked. Again, slow reaction hopefully cured with a bit of time away from the rink. It's been a jam packed first half for everyone. The good fight through it. The not so good... at least put up a fight.
Wishing the Leafs and everyone who reads this All The Rest, Merry Christmas and Happy Next.. um... New Year!
Not so sure it's as bad as all that. They've lost 4 out of the last 5, which is a slump most teams go through at some point in a season. It just looks particularly bad because of the really bad start.
ReplyDeleteBut don't forget they just went 7-2-1 before this slump. I think that's who they are and they'll pick it up again in the new year. 7th or 8th in the conference by April isn't unrealistic.
And a merry Christmas to you and yours, too, man. Cheers.
ronny (unlimited)
Hey Norm-
ReplyDeleteDropped you on line on twitter----it was a non-descript game in general. I really believe both teams were greatly looking forward to 2 days off. This schedule (even for me a hockey nut) is crazy. If their going in 2014 they have to start earlier or end late.
Kessel looked tired tonight for sure...but if the Leafs cash in on a couple of those chances in front it's a different result...Roloson was the difference.
Have a happy holiday.
Merry Christmas fellas...
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