Busy week

The Leafs are certainly a long shot to make the dance, again. It's doesn't mean they can't go about business like they're going to sneak in. I can't see Randy Carlyle advocating or pushing for anything other than a win-first mentality in his players. We can argue whether it would be more beneficial for the Leafs to plummet, you know "Suck for Galchenyuk"?, but with this group, that coach, that manager, and with what they've  been through, it's not happening. At least not intentionally.

Deal breaker

I wouldn't have traded Phil Kessel for Rick Nash before the trade deadline. This summer, I'll make that deal in a heartbeat. Kessel is a scoring machine, but doesn't do much to rally the troops. I mean, with his play, not his mouth. He can bring fans out of their seats with the odd rush up the ice. He just doesn't incite his teammates in the same way. I believe he needs to do that. 'Phil the Mercenary' should be evolving into Phil, a leader.

Fan cheated

Listening to the radio this morning, the host was going on about fans at Air Canada Centre failing to 'hero worship' Carlyle when he stepped behind the bench last night. Apparently the team produced a look-back montage of Carlyle and his new assistant Dave Farrish, both ex-Buds, that played on the big screen. And again, no one blinked. You know what? It has nothing to do with a lack of passion or knowledge. Simply put, fans aren't in the mood to celebrate anyone or thing involved with this organization. Sure, an alternative to Ron Wilson is terrific, and noted, but there's so much more work to do. Plus it's hard to blame fans for feeling a bit cheated. Two weeks ago their beloved squad was in position to make the playoffs. Today, not so much. That death spiral further jaded 'the jaded'. If the Leafs, Burke, Carlyle want praise... make the playoffs. Then win a round. Then two. Then three. Then cap it off with a cup. Do all of that then you can pick your statue material and location. Until then the jury is waaaay out.

Too slow

With all due respect to Colby Armstrong, whom I reeeeaaaalllly respect and don't mean to pile on, but the guy doesn't fit in with this team. His obsession with injury is unfortunate because its hindered his ability to get into a playing groove. His trademark ruggedness has been negated over that failure to find his own game while he attempts to keep up with the brisk tempo required of the club. For my taste, any player too slow for the program should be removed, including Armstrong.

Drive for 91

Three more games this week. If the Leafs win them all there's still something to play for, mathematically. If not, we'll still be talking about them.

And some goal predictions.... does Kessel reach 40? And Grabovski, 28-30?

Related:
Damned if you do
Leafs due