Four vacation questions before the Leafs return tomorrow
It's hard to believe this Leafs vacation is nearly over. My God, time flies when you're not hurling profanities at your TV.
My body went into blue-and-white withdrawal sometime on Day 3. My wife and I were strolling through the lobby at Serenity Hotel in the balmy Republic of No More Losing. She was yammering on about beta-Carotene or new bunk beds for the kids – the memory is hazy – when my right eye started twitching uncontrollably.
"Are you okay?" she asked, as I clutched my face with one hand and braced myself against a marble pillar with the other.
"I'm fine," I said, trying not to blackout. "But it's been 72 hours since I've watched someone giveaway the puck or shoot high and wide on a breakaway. It's hard."
On Day 5, after dining on charred root vegetables and fried tilapia, we walked along the beach at night.
"Isn't this wonderful?" my wife asked, twirling in the sand and grabbing my hand with a coquettish grin.
"I don't really see how they're going to make the playoffs – maybe not even next year," I replied, as palm fronds swayed gently under a quarter moon.
"What?" she hissed, throwing down my hand. "We're on vacation from the Leafs! You promised!"
"Do you think Reimer is for real?" I asked. "I do. How much can the MacArthur line really be expected to do all by itself? How do we get Kessel to focus more so these weird, extended slumps eventually disappear? The poor bastard was even invisible at the All-Star game."
"I hate you!" my wife screamed.
"Listen to me," I said, whispering and grabbing her shoulders. "I feel queasy. My mouth is dry. Okay? I just need five minutes of your time. Help me answer four questions before the Leafs return on Tuesday."
"I feel sorry for you," she said. "I really do."
"One, the Dion Phaneuf trade happened exactly one year ago," I said. "Why has this blockbuster deal – which still seems so incredibly one-sided on the surface – failed to lift the Leafs? Why are they further away from a playoff spot right now than they were a year ago at this time?"
"I don't know," she said.
"Was putting the 'C' on his jersey a mistake?"
"I really don't know."
"Two, what about truculence?" I asked. "Why isn't this team as tough – and I'm talking about team toughness here – as promised this summer? Why is this team not playing like a Brian Burke team? Why do they let other teams dictate the tone and pace each night? Why do they let the other guys set the aggression levels?"
"This is pathetic," she said.
"Three, why can't this team transition for more than a period before the wheels suddenly fall off and puck support vanishes and they start creating sloppy turnovers like unpaid interns at a Pillsbury factory? The backend was supposed to be one of the best in the league. Why do we have 547 giveaways, second only to Edmonton? Why does Francois Beauchmin lead the league in giveaways? Why is Luke Schenn second? Why is Tomas Kaberle also in the Top 10?"
"You need help," she said. "You all do."
"Four, why is this team not ready to play when the puck drops? Why do they look so sleepy? The good news is the Leafs are 11-4-3 when they score first. That's a .611 winning percentage. The bad news is they have allowed the opposition to score first in 31 of 49 games this season. And when this happens, they are a horrifying .258.
"They haven't scored first in a game since January 6, when they beat St. Louis in a shootout. Is it team focus? Is it desire? Is it preparation? Is it the silent return of blue-and-white disease?"
"Are you done?" she asked.
"I just need some answers," I said. "We all do."
Your wife was right: "You need help," she said. "You all do."
Such good questions without logical answers. We need therapy. Think the Leafs Nation could get a group discount?
VM Replies: I'm starting to think of this season as a mystery, a crime novel with many suspects but no simple explanations.
Posted by: Katherine | 01/31/2011 at 02:12 PM
I too, have returned Vinay from a much deserved hiatus from the Leafs! Now then, let's begin the last half of the season with a win and finish strong. Onward and upward! Go Leafs Go!
Cheers to all in Leafs Nation,
VM Replies: I went looking for you in Home Depot. Glad you're back and rested for the final two months.
Posted by: We BeLeaf | 01/31/2011 at 02:23 PM
Just for the record.My wife does not have the answers either.
VM Replies: But at least we're still asking questions.
Posted by: TimB | 01/31/2011 at 02:24 PM
HELP ME JEEBUS. I don't know if I can take 33 more games of this! Now that I'm almost seven days clean I don't know if I want to go back to shooting blue & white koolaid into my veins!! I feel like a repeat alien abduction victim caught in the tractor beam again. All white-knuckled and sweaty, with a thready pulse and...HELPMEPLEASEDONTLETTHEMTAKEME!
VM Replies: Pull yourself together, woman. We need you calm and focused.
Posted by: Boo Who? | 01/31/2011 at 02:29 PM
I know I need help when I read "the final two months" and start to panic about what I am going to do in the off season. Despite the fact that summer is my favourite season, I can't help but hyperventilate slightly.
VM Replies: This is interesting. Your reaction is almost the exact opposite of what Boo-berry just experienced.
Posted by: Alecia | 01/31/2011 at 02:29 PM
BLUE AND WHITE ALIENS....PLEASETAKEMEWITHYOUPLEASE!
Posted by: Alecia | 01/31/2011 at 02:46 PM
Nice post Vinay. I'll be watching the game tomorrow with my buddy who is a die-hard Panthers fan. I just hope the blue and white give me something to cheer about!
VM Replies: Is Colton ready to play again? We may need another goalie-interference goal against Florida.
Posted by: Darren | 01/31/2011 at 02:46 PM
It will be interesting to see how Mr. Burke deals with this lingering dissatisfaction. Comes the time now, when teams more successful than ours will come calling. These posts are filled with visionaries. I wonder who we would collectively trade and whom would we keep?
I have said far too many times in these pages, there is the basis of a fine, fast young team in this NHL/AHL combo. Perhaps M. Burke can add to this group of young colts in the trading that is about to take place. In the meanwhile, I would rather see us lose (if lose we must) bringing them up and all together. Teaching them in the last half of this season what will so surely be of benefit next season. My friends, we shall overcome! We are marching forward - there is a future right around the corner, draft picks or no!
I'm going to go and drink my Gerital now.
VM Replies: We should get the trainers to mix Geritol in with the Gatorade. Couldn't hurt.
Posted by: Robert | 01/31/2011 at 02:47 PM
I am the Yang to her Yin, after all. I'm letting it all 'Yang out'. Don't wanna 'Yang her out to dry'. Gotta 'Yang tough'...I think I'm going to Yang myself.
:(
Posted by: Boo Who? | 01/31/2011 at 02:47 PM
Sorry Vinnie there is no known help for the disease. It has been around for a long time. The serum rests in a vault at the ACC. Unfortunately it is in the hands of a mad man who trades draft picks for ....... well you know. But it seems to me the fever has lessened during the All Star break, and tomorrow brings with it a new set of tests. Trades or no? Moving folks back and forth from the Marlies to the Leafies and so forth. Like your good self, I have woken my wife more than once by screaming pass the puck you idiot at the television set. She has said she will cut off my supply of the Captain if I don't keep it down. Some of you make lemon squares. Is that a form of therapy? Can I have the recipe? If your mouth is full of squares, can you still scream at your set. Do I ask more questions than I can answer? (help)
VM Replies: To answer your last four questions: 1. Yes, the squares are therapeutic. 2. TimB maintains an archive of all recipes. 3. It's very difficult to scream or even feel like screaming when your mouth is full of tangy baked goods. 4. You have always provided more answers than questions around here.
And to answer your first question, yes, I suspect we will be discussing some trades before Feb. 28.
Posted by: Robert | 01/31/2011 at 02:56 PM
In answer to question #3: it's because the Leafs defensemen - who I truly believe are a better than average group (and I say this as a Habs' fan) - don't trust their forwards to be in position. D-men need to know they can count on their centres and wingers to be where they're supposed to be when they get they puck (I say as a lifelong D - let's not discuss how good or bad)... it's clear watching the Leafs that their D don't have that certainty. They look up... they don't see what they're supposed to see, they hesitate, and then they try a desperation pass to get themselves out of a jam. Boom - turnover. Partly this is the inevitable outcome of having a young group of forwards, but partly, given this has been such a consistent pattern, you have to wonder why the coaching staff can't get its forwards to play within the system defensively and on the breakout.
VM Replies: Interesting perspective from a blueliner. Let me ask you something, though: What *is* the system?
Posted by: Geoff Read | 01/31/2011 at 03:35 PM
Good question! You'd have to ask Wilson! Presumably, the Leafs have a breakout system - it just seems to me that the forwards don't seem to be in position to break out effectively - we tend to blame the defensemen because they're the ones we see turning the puck over, but oftentimes it's because they have no one to pass to, or maybe there is someone, but it's it seems like they're not where the D-men expect them to be.
This has been a Leaf problem for a long time dating back to the Quinn era. I think of Hal Gill - he looked awful in Toronto because he had to do too much - yet, in Pittsburgh and now in Montreal, playing a well-defined role with disciplined teams who play well positionally, he is a very effective defensive defensemen (most nights anyway - granted, he still gets windburn on occasion as wingers fly by him). To take a reverse example, in Montreal, Komisarek looked great most nights, while in Toronto he's looked lost and totally hopeless with the puck.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 01/31/2011 at 03:50 PM
way to funny man way to funny roflmao!!
Posted by: gary | 01/31/2011 at 04:05 PM
@Robert. Here's the original lemon squares recipe:
Ingredients:
2 cups flour
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
2 sticks butter
2 cups sugar
1 tablespoon flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 eggs, well beaten
1 heaping tablespoon grated lemon rind
1/4 cup lemon juice
Preparation:
Sift flour and powdered sugar together. Cut in butter until well blended. Press mixture over bottom of a 9 by 13 by 2-inch pan. Bake about 25 minutes at 300° until lightly browned. Combine remaining ingredients and spread on top of the baked crust. Bake at 350° for 25 to 30 minutes. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.
Makes about 12 servings.
In certain cases I have,let's say,modified it a bit.
Re: trades. Darren Dreger is saying there is something pending.Dunno.
Posted by: TimB | 01/31/2011 at 04:06 PM
@ geoff you have said it. How many times have we collectively sat and watched the D hung out to dry. Jeez, I coached minor hockey for a lot of years, and your wingers have got to come back, in order for any consistent break out to take place. We have dissed the D's all year, doing the unthinkable like putting the puck in front of their own net! Beauchemin's favourite play, but, its because someone in blue and white is supposed to be there. Beauchemin is an experience D and knows better than to give it away in front of his own net. I have never believed Ron Wilson has a system in place, I still don't believe it. How many times have these guys taken to the ice and not been ready to play. Start out slow etc. etc. Two goals behind again and again. There is only one person to blame for that.
These are competitive elite athletes - some more gifted than others, but, when they all come out dragging their butts, something else is wrong.
Posted by: Robert | 01/31/2011 at 04:16 PM
Geoff, isn't the reason that Komisarek didn't look terrible is because he played with Markov?
Posted by: hoofheartz | 01/31/2011 at 04:18 PM
The one good thing about the failing Leafs squad and the aforementioned questions, is that it makes us beer leaguers actually think we're good at hockey.
Posted by: Nick | 01/31/2011 at 04:24 PM
I need to do some groceries it seems. Lemon squares and powdered arsenic donuts, mmmmm.
If Scott Cullen is to be believed, we can look forward to watching Kessel, Versteeg, MacArthur and Kaberle tank for the rest of the season. Ay Dios mio, ayudame por favor. No me gusta.
Posted by: Boo Who? | 01/31/2011 at 04:29 PM
Your blogs have made this season much more enjoyable than it should have been. Keep up the good work VM!
I know we're not making the playoffs, I just hope that we don't give another top 5 pick to Boston. We're basically rebuilding their team while they contend for a cup *shakes head in disgust*
I swear, the evil spirit of Ballord has cursed the Leafs...we shall call him Ballador!!
VM Replies: "The Evil Spirit of Ballador." I'm now thinking about changing the name of this blog.
Posted by: Matt | 01/31/2011 at 04:29 PM
@Tim B. Thank you for the recipe. I look forward to having some ready for tomorrow night, when we shall overcome.
Regards
Posted by: Robert | 01/31/2011 at 04:30 PM
Was putting the C on Phaneuf a mistake? I'll take a stab at answering that.
In a word: undoubtedly.
What sense did it make to award the C to a guy who had just arrived, had not proved himself worthy at all (except in dollar signs), hadn't gotten to know his teammates and hadn't earned their respect.....it was a terrible mistake. Like so many things that speak to the culture of entitlement that Burke was supposedly flushing out of there, that instant C went against everything the C is supposed to symbolize. It basically told the team: this guy has a big ego, he's a big shot, let's all placate him and perform the ritual, and so what if you guys have zero feeling of kinship or respect for him....
It's interesting to see how Phaneuf interacts with his teammates, how cool and detached he seems to be on the ice...and then he sits on the bench and won't stop yapping. Dude just seems so unlikeable, so smug and cocky. That's precisely the kind of person you shouldn't have as captain. Plus, he never actually does his job: i.e. talk to the ref, talk to the press ( a couple of gruff, dry sentences and that's it, while Mac Arthur and Giguere answer the tough questions...
Somehow someone thought the big name ought to be the captain, but that's just marketing, it's not hockey. The guy is a diva!
Posted by: Princess Mononoke | 01/31/2011 at 04:35 PM
Rumours are that there is a major pending trade, the only name I have heard mentioned is Bozak but I would imagine he would go as part of a bigger deal.
I'd actually like to see him stay and develop with the team. I'd be sad to see some of the younger players like Bozak and Schenn be traded away.
As for what Geoff and Robert have said, I would like to remind everyone that since Wilson started in 2008, we have gotten rid of every player but 4. We have practically a new team with a lot of young talent and some proven veterans and yet we are in the same position we have been the entire time Wilson has been here. He really is the only common denominator. I believe the core of a winning team is there, we are just a few trades and coaching changes away.
VM Replies: The rumours are definitely flying. But from what I gather, most of them do not have wings.
Posted by: Alecia | 01/31/2011 at 04:37 PM
Love the column.Always well thought out and funnier 'n hell.My wife has no answers either and I'm not even married.Seems 43 years of Leaf delusionment is transferable to your everyday life.My current delusionment is this: We're going to make some trades in the next month that actually help this team.Rynnas will come up and we'll have 2 young goalies (Reimer seemingly will be the other) that will carry us through next year.We'll get Brad Richards in the off season and a few tougher defensive defencemen that will also move the puck effectively out of the defensive zone.Am I beyond help?
VM Replies: No, you are not beyond help. You are a wise man.
Posted by: Al Cleverdon | 01/31/2011 at 04:41 PM
Leafs miss playoffs? That's unpossible!
Posted by: Boo Who? | 01/31/2011 at 04:45 PM
@Princess Mononoke
I'll tell why you Phaneuf is captain. Burke said when he came here that they were waiting for Schenn to be named captain in the future. This was until MLSE said they needed someone to put on posters/billboards, as well as make $ selling Captain Phaneuf jerseys. I'll even go out on a limb and say that's why they traded for Kessel: to have someone to sell jerseys and be the face of the franchise. Who else would we have had to play that role prior to that trade??
I guarantee that that decision was made from the top, not Burke or Wilson. Just more stupid politics from MLSE...
Posted by: Matt | 01/31/2011 at 04:51 PM
Okay Vinay, I’m going to take my best shot at your questions, seeing as your wife was no help :)
Phaneuf did lift them last year to 13-10-3 over their last 26 – although I’d say Guigere had as much or more to do with that as Phaneuf did. This year the Leafs are 14-16-2 with Phaneuf in (they were 5-4-1 before his injury, 9-12-1 after his return and 5-9-3 during). Now, I’m sure there are a million other factors to consider, but on first glance those records indicate that his team is better with Phaneuf in the lineup.
But as to why they’re suffering now – it’s a lack of scoring depth, plain and simple. They gave up a good deal of mid-tier scoring depth last year (White, Stajan, Blake, Hagman, Stempniak, Ponivarovsky) and have yet to replace all of it (although the evolution of Grabbo and Kulie, and the acquisition of Versteeg and McArthur have somewhat compensated).
As for truculence? Maybe it’s just me, but the problem appears to be with the top six forwards. Our defence and bottom six seem scrappy enough to me. But outside of Grabbo and McArthur there seems to be a lack of aggression, and outside of Kulemin there seems to be a lack of size. This team is desperately missing a Dustin Brown/Brendan Morrow type player to set the tone from the top down.
Giveaways are a terribly flawed stat; rely on Corsi and Zoneshift instead. As for consistency, I’d say a lot of it has to do with how young this team is. Most of the players in the top six have yet to play in five full NHL seasons, and only McArthur and Grabbo are over 25 years old. This is a group that is very much learning how to play the game at this level and be competitive. And it’s not like you have the base that Colorado, Chicago or Phili does here. Just one of your top six players was a first rounder – Kessel’s centre wasn’t even drafted. These are not 19 year old impact players – but if they are given time to grow together they could be 27 year old impact players.
As for preparedness, see the above I guess.
VM Replies: God, you are smart. Stay away from my wife, please. She would leave me in a heartbeat to be with someone this smart.
Posted by: Chris Hunt | 01/31/2011 at 04:52 PM
whats this pending trade? I am googling up a storm I cant find anything?
Posted by: Ostrich Lover | 01/31/2011 at 04:56 PM
@TimB
Thanks for the repeat on the recipe for Lemon Squares.
Forgot to take notes the last time --- which was about when I discovered this cool blog and mostly cool followers.
Also, it's only fairly recently that I finally took up baking seriosly and began moving away from my original recipe for Butter Tart Squares.
Darn. I don't have that one handy.*
How about Shortbread Cookies?
.
Shortbread Cookies
1 package cookie mix**
1 1/4 (300 mL) unsalted butter, softened
.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees*** F (160 degrees C)
In large bowl stir together cookie mix and softened butter until dough holds together. Divide dough into two even portions and pat into two 8-inch (2 L) square pans.
Smooth the top with the back of a spoon and, using a fork, gently prick dough at 1/2-inch (1 cm) intervals.
Bake on middle oven rack for 32-35 minutes or until evenly golden brown and firm on top.
Using a small sharp knife, immediately cut into rectangles, but leave to cool completely in the pan, on a rack.
Makes about 3 dozens (sic) of 1-inch x 2-inch rectangles.
.
* Used my last package at Christmas time and the recipe was on the long-since-discarded box.
** Recipe is from the side panel of a leftover package of President's Choice Shortbread Cookie mix, which is needed in order to make this recipe. (g)
The package is marked "Limited Time Only" so may no longer be available, which is no problem since I'm posting the recipe strictly as a joke and a (hopefully humorous) comment on my pseudo baking skills during the Holiday rush. Which did lead to a return to more serious, from-scratch baking efforts since.
*** In a typically Apple limitation, the on-screen, touch-screen keyboard on this iPad has no ready discernible way to generate the degree sign. Can't even Superscript a lower case "o" as a workaround.
I know Hoofie, too much info and too long a post. Well they all can't be short and pithy (wink), especially when they include a recipe AND asterisks. LOL
VM Replies: Tap and then hold down the "o" letter on your keyboard. A pop-up menu should appear just above. Without releasing the "o," slide your finger to the degree symbol (should be the first one).
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 01/31/2011 at 04:58 PM
I too have a crazy suspicion that Brad Richards will come to Toronto. He is a Canadian boy who has publicly expressed interest while Dallas is having a hard time resigning him and time is ticking fast. Maybe I am just being hopeful but I can see Burke going after him like a vulture.
VM Replies: "Like a vulture" suggests Mr. Richards is a corpse, does it not?
Posted by: Alecia | 01/31/2011 at 05:00 PM
burkie prides himself on his principles and says his principles will attract free agents .. how many free agents will he attract with the coach that players say they like the least ?? ... just askin'
VM Replies: I was thinking about doing something on that NHLPA/HNIC poll yesterday. But the methodology scared me away. Without knowing anything about the 318 players who participated anonymously -- average age, teams they play for, etc. -- I don't think the survey has a lot of scientific value.
I was a little freaked out by the "5 per cent would not want to play for the Leafs" response until I realized this number translates into about 15 players out of more than 800 with ice time this season.
Posted by: palbo | 01/31/2011 at 05:07 PM
I have my own four questions: 1- Will Phanuef continue his resurgance? He has been excellent for the past 5 games. 2. Who will get traded? 3. Will Riemer now be the starter 4 Will they trade Versteeg? Bozak? I wouldnt have considered this earlier, but if you think about it, if they are sold on the grabovski line as their second line going forward, Bozak and Versteeg-2 guys I like alot - are pretty soft for third liners. Interesting...
To answer yours 1. Phaneuf trade will look alot better once consistant goaltending is provided. His point shot will be better when no longer partnered with a guy who refuses to shoot. This will have the added incentive of making Dion the PP QB. For Dion to regain his former offensive status Kabs must go.
2 The team will be more truculant with the continued health of Armstrong and Brown and the addition of a Large Centre or a True Power Forward. The Defense is fairly hard to play aginst, but at least half of them -kabs, gunnysack, bauch- are somewhat soft (bauch at least will hit).
3.The team leads the league in giveaways, or is close, b/c they insist on playing a wide open style without the players to do so. This will pay off eventually. Or at least should. Until recently Bauch and not Phaneuf was getting the most icetime and he cant be a number one. Schenn is excused for having Kabs as a partner, this leads to tons of giveaways.
4. I believe the team usually is ready to play, they just dont score first becuase they have only one top line player and also their goaltending has sucked.
Posted by: Ostrich Lover | 01/31/2011 at 05:09 PM
Elsewhere* recently, an obvious Leaf fan noted that in the All-Star game, the team with a Senator player lost to a team with a Leaf player. Adding that it was some how typical.
SOME --- underlining ONLY some --- Leaf fans will clasp at anything for solace and a misguided attempt to feel superior.
* Comments on a Canadian Press account of the All-Star game, on TSN.ca
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 01/31/2011 at 05:12 PM
Okay.I'm no Alecia but here goes.There will be no Brad Richards.Something is brewing and we are going to lose prospects.Just a feeling.I could be wrong.
Posted by: TimB | 01/31/2011 at 05:17 PM
VM - all science aside - re wilson - still not a good sign.
VM Replies: No, you're quite right. A lack of statistical significance does not mean the general conclusions are completely without merit.
Posted by: palbo | 01/31/2011 at 05:21 PM
SO seriously, is anyone gonna post a link to the Bozak rumour? Or to Daren Dreger?
VM Replies: Alecia?
Posted by: Ostrich Lover | 01/31/2011 at 05:23 PM
In the same Comments thread on tsn.ca, another obvious Leaf fan, seeking some kind if vindication, proudly pointed out that Kessel's team won the All-Star game.
Yeah, like he really contributed to that victory.
In an easy-going game of shinny, he still managed to stand out as a floater.
How many times did his linemates set him up in and around the net --- occasionally sacrificing scoring chances for themselves --- only to have him fail to pull the trigger or shoot right into the goaltender's midsection?
While tending to focus on him to see how he'd perform, a phrase came to mind while watching the passing prowess of his linemates --- Tic, Tac, Toss. With tossing, or coughing up the puck, being Kessel's tendency, even when in scoring position.
A special note for the overly-sensitive segment in Leafland: This is NOT a criticism of your Leafs. This is merely observations on the seemingly squandered talents of one individual.
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 01/31/2011 at 05:25 PM
@Hoofheartz
Going to go make dinner now while enjoying the last of MY vacation from the misery of watching the Sens repeatedly shoot themselves in the foot --- and the hand, the knee, the butt, the shoulder and seemingly in every place possible. (sigh)
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 01/31/2011 at 05:28 PM
I was at the bar over the weekend, asking myself similar questions. Not having a girlfriend or a wife, I approached this gorgeous girl and asked her:
"Do you know why the Leafs aren't winning?"
"What?" she said.
"They have such a great roster with so much potential but it keeps getting squandered."
She responded: "The Leafs suck."
Then she walked away, and I went home wondering why I still have hope for this God-forsaken team.
VM Replies: Oh, man. You just made me laugh so hard.
Posted by: Adam | 01/31/2011 at 05:45 PM
Thanks for the info Bill. I'll cherish it, always.
VM Replies: And the laughing continues...
Posted by: hoofheartz | 01/31/2011 at 05:46 PM
Great blog today Vinay. This one sums up our thoughts for the season precisely. I have one suggestion. Interview Burke and ask him those 4 questions. No settling for I don't know as the answer. He has been here to long to just shake his head in disbelief.
VM Replies: Thank you, Dr. Waffles. We will get our answers, don't you worry.
Posted by: waffles2010 | 01/31/2011 at 05:59 PM
OL - check out www.bleacherreport.com
They are speculating on 3 possibilites: Kaberle and a prospect for Richards. Beauchemin and Mitchell for Richards and the worst one, Schenn and Bozak for Richards. Reporter said the last one almost happened earlier but the Leafs fell out of playoff contention in September (sorry couldn't help myself) so Burke did not do the deed. These are just 3 of 11 or 12 rumours concerning Richards.
VM Replies: I was told this afternoon this was all, um, nonsense (a different word was used).
Posted by: hoofheartz | 01/31/2011 at 06:12 PM
VM - i have one more question to ask BB - when you interviewed him last time he said his strategy is not working now, but it will in the future - please ask him why, if it is not currently working, he thinks it will work later .... and when?
Posted by: palbo | 01/31/2011 at 06:12 PM
@ palbo and VM - I am no statistician, but even without knowing who completed the player poll, the number of respondees that stated Wilson is their least favourite coach (24%) works out to roughly 80 people. Using your numbers Vinay (800 total, which is quite accurate), that's a tenth of the players in the league, all on it's own, and assuming that the trend is limited to that polling sample. That's got to be of some significance.
VM Replies: Yes, 76 players based on the 318 sample of larger population. Certainly more significant than the 5 per cent response to question about not wanting to play in Toronto.
Boo-berry, you are now our official statistician.
Posted by: Boo Who? | 01/31/2011 at 06:13 PM
@Adam: obviously just another gorgeous Habs fan...there are so many of us.
@VM: I wouldn't worry about your wife leaving you over a case of hockey smarts...we women don't pick our mates that way, otherwise I wouldn't have married my own shoe-throwing, remote-control-breaking perennially miserhopeful Leafs fan!
VM Replies: But what if hockey smarts are reflective of other aspects of life?
What if Chris is a patient driver who never freaks out at other drivers? What if he listens attentively and doesn't need to be told 16 times to take the Christmas decorations to the shed already?
This is my fear, Princess.
Posted by: Princess Mononoke | 01/31/2011 at 06:18 PM
VM: Is Bleacher Report just a bunch of made up junk? I was actually checking on stats for Richards and came across the site.
VM Replies: No, I'm not saying that. Just saying that rumours today involving Richards or Thornton were dismissed as "fabrications." (And I have no idea where the fabricating originated.)
I can only pass on what I'm told: There have been zero trade discussions about either of those players.
Posted by: hoofheartz | 01/31/2011 at 06:32 PM
Princess, what on earth is wrong with a shoe-throwing, remote control breaking Leaf fan. We are legion.
Posted by: hoofheartz | 01/31/2011 at 06:36 PM
@ VM - somewhere, a former math teacher of mine is eating their shoe.
When I look at both your chosen stat and mine, it says to me that the deterrent to playing in Toronto is not so much the city or the team, but the coach. Man, I'm just a ray of sunshine today!
Posted by: Boo Who? | 01/31/2011 at 06:51 PM
So since we're all suffering from blue and white disease and tired of not making the playoffs, here is an alternative:
Tampa Bay unveiled their new jersey today, thoughts?
http://a323.yahoofs.com/ymg/ept_sports_nhl_experts__86/ept_sports_nhl_experts-688607478-1296500938.jpg?ymKzJfEDSfmVTU34
Posted by: Alecia | 01/31/2011 at 06:53 PM
I feel like I have to counter attack here... @Adam, us gorgeous female Leaf fans exist too.
k, I had to call myself gorgeous to make the point.
Posted by: Alecia | 01/31/2011 at 06:56 PM
I can state that Bleacher Report is total garbage. Earlier I read an article on their site suggesting that one of the players the Leafs could potentially aquire via trade was Kovalacuck. Because guys always get traded in the first year of their fifteen year deal!
Posted by: Ostrich Lover | 01/31/2011 at 06:57 PM
If my opinion counts for anything - I'm a sucker for boys that like hockey. And Leafs fans in particular. By and large, the nicest, smartest, funniest men I know are Leafs fans. They have to be nice to put up with so many years of disappointment (and even then, the worst they will do is throw waffles at you when they get really mad). They're smart because they spend so much time crunching stats and playing armchair GM, and they're funny because they have to find a way to cope with all the negativity and despair. Yep. Boys who bleed Blue and White are pretty great.
Posted by: Boo Who? | 01/31/2011 at 07:03 PM
And one last thing - whoever it was upthread that posted about Zoneshift stats (Chris, our genius in residence?) you made my freaking day. I could seriously hug you right now. I just need to change the bag on my Koolaid IV and away I go...wheeeeee, brain food.
Posted by: Boo Who? | 01/31/2011 at 07:33 PM
@ Adam...you're gonna' havta' work on a better pickup line.
@Alecia... if TB is going to somewhat match the Leaf blue sweater, then I think it may be time for a Leaf crest to sit on a red sweater, something like the Red Wings yet with a subtle thin line of silver ( red, white and silver streak).
Posted by: leafland'r | 01/31/2011 at 07:35 PM
Thanks Vinay, I appreciate the compliment. Although, I can't tell if your being facetious or not :) And while we're at it, I might as well say how much I've been enjoying this project of yours. It's nice to see a media outlet like The Star give a platform to a fan's point of view - and to have it so well written is a bonus.
By the by, I totally freak out at other drivers - but only verbally, and on occasion I might demonstrate to them how shapely my middle finger is.
When it comes to Christmas lights I have the perfect system - I simply refuse to put them up in the first place as a preventative measure against future arguments. This way there is nothing for my wife to get angry about in oh, say, August.
For your readers, I'd suggest that the Blecher Report be considered, ahem, unreliable. I'd also suggest that Wilson isn't going anywhere. He's here to develop young players, which he is doing a pretty good job at considering what he has to work with. Also, I'm pretty sure Burke has made exactly one coaching change in all his years as a GM (Keenan out, Crawford in), so I think Leaf fans should get used to RW being around, because he isn't the problem.
So what is the problem? The lack of a true top flight centreman (although Grabbo is getting there), goaltending, onerous contracts on defence and a lack of production from the back end. Coaching can't fix most of that, good GM-ing can.
VM Replies: I was being sincere. I am only facetious with this team.
Posted by: Chris Hunt | 01/31/2011 at 07:38 PM
So Boo, what do you think of older men and younger women?
Posted by: hoofheartz | 01/31/2011 at 07:48 PM
I haven't missed 'em a bit, really.
Funny thing is, the missus made waffles yesterday and I couldn't really enjoy 'em. Thought they'd be far more useful being tossed. Isn't there supposed to be a strike or lockout pretty soon?
Posted by: Gman | 01/31/2011 at 08:16 PM
@OL - probably disappointing to you to learn that Kaberle is the third highest scoring defenceman behind Lindstrom and Boyle since the lock out. As for Phaneuf's problems don't foist them on to the Kabers, hell he made a scorer out of McCabe! Phaneuf should learn to hit the net, and play Captain. I guess we all try to account for the problems on this dysfunctional team. When the answer is -
Posted by: Robert | 01/31/2011 at 08:21 PM
Vinay you make laugh! I think you should invite us all to your house for some group therapy. Mostly I would want to see your wife's reaction.
Alecia, you had me at "Hello." Now you are telling me you are Gorgeous too?
Posted by: Ken Baumgartner | 01/31/2011 at 08:44 PM
@Alecia
"Tampa Bay unveiled their new jersey today, thoughts?"
Might have liked them in BLACK and white. This colour scheme makes them look like Leaf wannabe's and who would wan . . . Um, never mind.
Though I can't see why a fairly successful team would want to risk being infected with their own version of blue-and-white disease.
To be serious for a second, while there is striking simplicity to their minimalistic logo, I'm old fashioned --- or simply old --- enough to prefer something with a bit more design to it, and potential for a touch of heraldtry over the years.
Sure, Montreal has merely two letters, but it's how they are combined, and employ the team colours, that sets this logo apart. The Bruins have but one letter, but the significance is that it has a stylized element to make if distinctive.
Same for the Detroit wing, the Toronto leaf, the New York shield and one of my all-time favourites, the Chicago chieftain.
Of course I could go on through all the post-original-six logos but that would be a really long post.
Forunately I pretty much like them all.
In parting, I will mention one team whose logos show the extremes between simplicity and complexity.
The Minnesota North Stars were another team whose logo was a single letter. But it was how the star (later adopted/continued by Dallas) was incorporated with the N that made the logo distinctive.
The current Minnesota team, The Wild, have one of those interesting double-level logos that are hard to appreciate unless you look at a static version.
In case you haven't noticed, the logo has the appropriate lake, treeline and sun suggesting the wilderness for which the state is known.
But also, when viewed as a whole, it's the profile of a wild beast's head.
I like that, though it's hard to appreciate when seen in motion.
For the record, yes, I like the Sens logo. (g)
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 01/31/2011 at 09:13 PM
Despite good old Apple refusing to allow Flash on the iPad, I just grabbed a look at the Minnesofa Wild logo. With my memory refreshed since my last
post about hockey logos --- which I hope went through --- I would amend my description of the Wild logo to say that on one hand, it features a river (not a lake), a treeline and a sunset WITH a North star. In a green and red colour scheme.
And when seen as a whole, revealing the head of a wild beast, the river is the mouth and the star the eye.
Perhaps Vinay could do me a favour and post a copy of the Minnesota Wild's logo here.
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 01/31/2011 at 09:25 PM
@Alecia I wasn't making a blanket statement about females in general. I know there are Leaf fans out there, and frankly, I'd like to meet one.
Posted by: Adam | 01/31/2011 at 09:30 PM
Four questions and a (f)un-real,... season that is.
Posted by: 80s Leafs | 01/31/2011 at 09:45 PM
Oh I forgot to mention what I DIDN'T like about the All-Star game, as seen on CBC, though I gather Versus wasn't any better in the area I'm about to discuss.
I HATED the job --- or more accuratey non-job --- done by the boys in the booth.
After all the yack, yack, and more endless yacking done before and during the weekend, the last thing I needed was more useless chatter during the game.
I mean after all the buildup, the too-long team selection process, the occasionally interesting skills competition and all the pre-, during and post-events analysis and round-and-round, wall-to-wall talk, the game was finally here and the action finally started, and what do we get? More talk, often on the very same things we'd already heard and read far too much about. Sheesh!!!
Did we really need another rehash of the skills competition, something we'd not only seen for ourselves but heard and read umpteen comments, descriptions and opinions about?
Especially when absolutely nothing new was being added while the play-by-play guy and various colour commentators and on-site reporters totally ignored what was happening on the ice.
I know it is a nothing game, but with so many famous players out there --- the biggest attraction of this game --- I WAS interested in knowing who was doing what out there.
Sure we could see for ourselves but frankly I was having trouble reading the numbers on the jerseys, let alone names.
To make it worse, not only did teams have more than one player with the same number on the team, but often times two with the same number on the ice --- at the same time!
OK, I knew one of the 91s out there for Team Lindstrom was Stamkos, but, again, who was the other 91?
Fortunately, later in the game Jim Hughson seemed to finally get bored with the endless chatter and started dabbling in occasionally doing his job --- play-by-play.
That helped me learn that one No. 10 for Team Staal was Patrick Sharp and the other No. 10 for Team Staal was Cory Perry.
Fortunately some players with the same number --- like the Big-Z for Team Staal and Buff for Team Lindstrom.
Still, while I enjoy the All-Star game simply for what it is --- I don't care if there is little resemblance to seasonal and playoff games in the NHL --- I would definitely have enjoyed it far more if I had the help we're owed from the play-by-play guy in keeping track of who was doing what out there on the ice.
Parting shot: Sometimes it was easy possible to spot players by attributes and/or style. I mean his distinctive height makes it easy to spot Chara. That guy with his sweater tucked in weirdly at the back, making his number hard to read? Well, he certainly seems to be floating out there and he definitely seems snakebit around the net. Could that be the one and only No. 81 . . .
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 01/31/2011 at 10:21 PM
"they start creating sloppy turnovers like unpaid interns at a Pillsbury factory" lmao. Current front-runner for simile of the year, 2011. Nice one.
Posted by: Biff | 01/31/2011 at 10:30 PM
Bill, the other 91 was Brad Richards.
Posted by: Alecia | 01/31/2011 at 10:34 PM
One more answer for you Bill, the guy with the tucked in sweater was... the one and only Ovechkin, #8.... not #81, but nice try.
Posted by: Alecia | 01/31/2011 at 10:40 PM
I see that Sensi-bill from Ottawa, is trying to teach Leaf fans again. Imagine, our friend complaining about "...all the yack, yack and more endless yacking..." This my dear friends is his way of teaching all of Leafs nation the definition of irony.
Thank-you Bill for once again posting as if you were being paid by the word. Or being paid at all for that matter.
You're welcome hoofheartz.
Posted by: waffles2010 | 01/31/2011 at 10:43 PM
@Adam, I know it wasn't a blanket statement... I was moreso responding to Princess's "obviously just another gorgeous Habs fan...there are so many of us."
There is a lot of us too. ;)
Posted by: Alecia | 01/31/2011 at 10:55 PM
Since I'm here and had one eye on the AHL All-Star Game while typing --- did it show? --- AND since we Sens fans have had zilch to celebrate for so long, I'll just mention that Bobby Butler, of the Bingamton Senators, was named MVP. Butler, who has on occasion played up with the big boys this season, had 1 goal, 3 assists, a +4 rating and 3 shots.
His Bingamton teammate, and Team East teammate, Corey Locke had no goals, no shots and was even in the +/- ratings but did manage two assists.
Toronto Marlie Kieth Aulie played for Team West and ended up with no goals, 1 assist and a -3 on 2 shots. If you ask me, not bad at all for a D-man in an All-Star game.
Oh yeah, final score, as if it mattered, was Team East 11, Team West 8.
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 01/31/2011 at 11:03 PM
The One Ronnie
And that's a goodnight from me and a goodnight from . . .
(Age-defined reference to an old Brit TV show called . . . )
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 01/31/2011 at 11:08 PM
@Alecia
Actually Ovie has some weird black pad or something that sticks up out of his pants at the back.
As was later confirmed by close-up, and Hughson, it was indeed good ol' No. 81.
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 01/31/2011 at 11:32 PM
@Alecia
Yeah, I eventually remembered it was Richards. Didn't mention it in the post because the post was getting long (epic?) as it was and I also thought I'd leave it unanswered to see if anyone was actually reading. (smile) Thanks.
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 01/31/2011 at 11:36 PM
@waffles2010
Except for the little bit of (accurate) chain pulling at the end, this post had pretty much nothing to do with the Leafs. I mentioned my frustration with the broadcast here, and plan to mention it elsewhere, including in a memo to CBC, to see if anyone here shared my opinion about that aspect of the telecast.
But nice job of trying to twist it into some kind of Leaf issue AND trying to make me some kind of enemy in the process.
As for the length of my posts, a quick scroll through the Comments reveals, as usual, that I am not alone in writing longer comments. (Don't worry. I won't go back and Copy and Paste some of your longer posts to make my point.)
I have seen no rules posted here regarding a minimum or maximum length for posts.
And really, why should it be a concern of yours, or Hoofheart's? Have you appointed yourselves Length of Comments Police?
In the end, it is I, the author of these posts, who risks being ignored due to the length of his posts. And yet, people reveal --- like you have done --- that they read then anyway.
And that's the bottom line. If you don't like their length, simply ignore them.
Now if Vinay was to ask me to stop posting longish comments, I would. It's his show and I think I've shown numerous times that he is someone I respect and admire. But to appear here as they do, they have to get his go ahead, which they obviously do.
I will try to write fewer long posts but not because you or my friend Hoofheartz tells me I must.
Finally, I must confess that after having, among other things, always written to make a living for well over 30 years, since being forced into a sort of "retirement" induced by health issues (aka long-term disability), I've tended to enjoy not having to employ the same mental discipline required to write tight and bright --- and always short.
Too much like work, I guess. (g)
But always, as a writer, I leave it up to my readers to decide if my words, no matter how many, are interesting enough to be worth reading.
.
Can I get a word count on aisle three?
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 02/01/2011 at 12:06 AM
Bill, Bill, Bill, I'm pretty sure I've only ever asked you once about brevity. I realize that I have the option to read or not to read but you generally have something interesting to say. Bearing that in mind, if you didn't want us to read your posts why would you put such obvious effort into them? Perhaps you could pen your memories (or memoires even) and I can read those.
As for a word count in aisle 3, I'm pretty sure there isn't a big enough number.
Posted by: hoofheartz | 02/01/2011 at 09:21 AM
Bill, 640 words.
Posted by: Alecia | 02/01/2011 at 09:42 AM
@Sensi-Bill
Just for clarification and the record. You ARE the enemy. You are a dirty, stinking Sens fan. Only outdone by the low life Habs fans who post here.
I can only imagine the length of your diatribes on the other 18 blogs or message boards that you claim to frequent. I assume that you even like the topics there.
We were talking about high school gym class a few blogs ago. Your posts remind me of an English teacher who prodded us to finish the Iliad.
If you would be so kind as to copy and paste my posts into todays blog I would appreciate it. I would love to re-read them. Besides, it doesn't seem like you have anything better to do.
Posted by: waffles2010 | 02/01/2011 at 10:25 AM
Hoofheartz - on the chance you see this this morning....
Yes - you're partly right. Markov is a rare talent and Komisarek definitely benefited playing with him. But I think Montreal's tight systems-oriented game under Carbonneau previously and Martin now, also had something to do with it. Witness Hal Gill as mentioned, or Josh Gorges - defensive defensemen with limited puck moving skills who've thrived in the bleu, blanc et rouge, because they're given the support they need by the forwards. Beauchemin is, I would argue, a better player than either of those guys but has looked worse this year because he's out there looking around and trying to spot an open man.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 02/01/2011 at 11:02 AM
Waffles, that was kinda harsh. To my knowledge, Sensi has never once made any of the typical remarks that you see from a stinking hab fan (except Princess who appears to be just a Habs fan). On many ocassions I'd have to say I agree with his analysis of the Leafs. Now, if he starts with the Laff, make beleaf or makemelaff BS then all bets are off.
Posted by: hoofheartz | 02/01/2011 at 11:05 AM
Geoff, I have a good friend who's also a Hab fan (thats another story). He told me when the Leafs picked up Komisarek that the fans would regret it and I would have to say be was right. Like you, I've played defence for virtually my whole hockey playing life and my philosophy is simple: as a forward, if you aren't coming back far enough for a pass, the puck will be coming your way, but it will be ear high and bouncing off the glass. At least that way I know the goalie won't be pissed at me for now getting the puck out.
Posted by: hoofheartz | 02/01/2011 at 11:13 AM
Hoofheartz - we share a philosophy then. I'm no Bobby Orr either. Yes, I also thought the Leafs badly overpaid for Komisarek and I agreed with the Habs' decision to let him go given the money that was involved. He's definitely a limited guy in some respects and he doesn't handle the puck well. That said, he was pretty effective for a couple years in Montreal in a top four role because the Habs' forwards made it easy for him to keep it simple and Markov was there to help clean up the mess when he did give the puck away.
I guess the other thing about him is what made him a valuable player - his physicality - seems to have disappeared this year in the wake of all his injuries.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 02/01/2011 at 11:25 AM
@hoofheartz
You may be right. Perhaps that was a little harsh. It doesn't change the fact that day after day, Sensi-Bill is here with tongue planted firmly in cheek, and feigned sincerity, taking shots at our team.
If you or I, ever scraped the absolute bottom of the barrel and frequented a Sens or Habs blog. I know, we NEVER would for any reason. I think that we would realize there was likely to be blowback for our posts.
Just because Bill is more literate and witty than most, doesn't disguise the fact that he is what he is. The enemy.
Posted by: waffles2010 | 02/01/2011 at 11:37 AM
To answer a question that was asked earlier, or in the previous blog's comments.... Since Orr is still on IR, Reimer is with the team and will back up Gigure tonight.
@Robert, sometimes I do a double take when I walk by a reflective windows. ;)
Posted by: Alecia | 02/01/2011 at 11:39 AM
@Geoff - You've certainly provided some good insight into the Leafs' lack of transition game, and while I feel that is a symptom, I don't think it's the underlying cause. I think, first and foremost, everything comes down to penalty killing. The team knows it struggles to score goals, so the last thing it wants to do is take penalties and get down by a couple. This is what is sucking the truculence from the team. For a contrast, Burke's 2007 Anaheim Ducks were the most penalized team in the league, but had a respectable 85% success rate on the penalty kill. Ours sits at a lowly 77%. Maybe it's the penalty killing system, maybe it's the coaches putting players in the dog house for taking penalties, but this team will never be tough if it's afraid to spend some time in the box.
Posted by: TPiddy | 02/01/2011 at 11:42 AM
Key point to your post Piddy is that there is no discernible system, either to the PK or PP. I'm not saying its not there, its just something I don't recognize. I watch other teams on the PK and they all seem agressive and attack the puck, while the Leafs seem very passive in comparison. Guess thats why I do what I do and Wilson has the job of coaching the Leafs.
Posted by: hoofheartz | 02/01/2011 at 12:00 PM
@TPiddy - yes, the Leafs' PK has been atrocious. This might be the most puzzling thing about the Wilson-era Leafs. Wilson's a coach whose teams have always been defined by good defense, grit and tenacity, and yet the Leafs have consistently been one of the worst penalty killing teams in the league under his watch. Maybe it's a personnel issue. Sjostrom's return might help.
Then there's the Habs - whose problem isn't penalty killing but taking 3-4 stupid penalties every night. It's infuriating - I've never seen such a stupidly undisciplined team. And again like Wilson's problems in Toronto, it's surprising that Jacques Martin, of all people, can't get his team to show some restraint. Frankly, I put some of the blame at the feet of Gomez, who, though Gionta's the captain, seems to be a guy who sets the tone for a lot of the younger players and is consistently one of the worst offenders in this regard. Cammalleri also takes a lot of dumb retaliatory penalties.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 02/01/2011 at 12:03 PM
Correction to my last post, @Bomber, not Robert.
Posted by: Alecia | 02/01/2011 at 12:39 PM
After reading the article on Versteeg's car being vandalized, and so much of the toxic comments comming from the fans and media...I wonder how much of this negativity is playing into the fact that Toronto was ranked 5th in the worst cities -play for..
HMMM...Interesting but not long ago, Vinay also refuted my claim about the media and fans....By saying I was wrong when I said players didn't like to play here....Well, I was just proven right......
Don't some of you get it?? A prolonged rebuild can't and won't work in Toronto..THE FANS AND MEDIA won't accept it....The media frenzy that is the Toronto market is vicious and negative....It promotes wack jobs like the waffle guy and encourages people like the guy who vandalized Versteeg's car....
Mark my words, the level of disrespect and the likelihood for a someone to attack a player on this team is only going to grow...When players and their property are being attacked you know the mood has changed..NOT FOR THE BETTER...
I hold talk radio like Andrew Crystal, Jeff Blair and the other media forms responsible for the environment these players are playing in. If a player does get hurt by a crazed and upset fan, I hope these same characters in the media will have the courage to come out and say they were wrong....
We are responsible for the environment..I think it is about time we change it to one that is more reasonable, more control...A LOT LESS NEGATIVE...because it will be too late once someone get's hurt.
Posted by: Nik Culoman | 02/01/2011 at 01:28 PM
@waffles2010
(The following was "Posted by: waffles2010 | 01/23/2011 at 09:07 PM" I'm pretty sure I could have found a longer one if I had done more than skip back a few threads and grab the first longish post by waffles that I found. But I think this will do to illustrate my point. The word count is: 621.)
------------------------------------------
Hey Moe, all I can do is give you my two cents on their inconsistency. If a player is not a hard worker, they need to be taught to be. More precisely they need a coach to demand it from them. If they don't do the things the coach requires, the coach limits ice time. I don't see Wilson do a lot of this.
Lets face it, all the players in the league are extremely talented hockey players. But I think what you are getting at is this. Phaneuf, Kessel and Versteeg are among the most talented players in the game. They have been at every level throughout their careers. Best in minor hockey, best talent in junior, minor leagues etcetera. Phaneuf and Kessel in particular experienced immediate success in the NHL.
We were all arrogant SOB's when we were twenty. Imagine talking to one that has just scored twenty goals as a rookie NHL defenseman. How motivated is he going to be to change his game and learn the little things that will make him a success for the next twenty years? Then you add the 6.5 million dollars to the equation. Coaching challenge to say the least.
I see Kessel in the same way. He scores 35 goals a year, some guys would be very pleased with that. Maybe not even interested in becoming one of the best in the game. I'm not absolutely sure that this how they think. But I think it is.
I do know that for both of them, issues with the coaching staff have already been mentioned. Kessel being sat out for playoff games is a red flag. Whispers about Phaneuf were that he was a headache for the staff in Calgary.
This apparent attitude is something that needs to change. Perhaps a new coach, or Wilson given more time, will get them more motivated to do the little things. Truly talented players don't have to work hard to play the game. It is the very special ones who are talented but continue to try to learn and grow as players year after year.
Work ethic is something that can be fostered on a team. Gary Roberts did it here in Toronto. He worked out HARD, he played even harder, the other players were impressed and if they weren't able to change their ways. Roberts would shall we say encourage them to see things a different way. Do we have someone here to show these guys the error of their ways?
They may even come to the realization that effort wins games on their own. They may not. You can't question their talent. I hate to see a player waste it. Kessel is wasting it right now.
The best example for Kessel is Brett Hull. When he was younger he had a lazy player reputation. Some time with Ken Hitchcock and then in Detroit had him playing like a champion. He was on the ice in all situations. He killed penalties, he backchecked. Sure they didn't always get along. When someone expects you to give more than you are giving, its unlikely to evoke warm feelings. Each player needs to decide if they are giving enough, as well as how badly they want to be better tomorrow than they were today.
Every offseason we hear how hard Crosby works to improve his game. When we hear independent media sources saying that about Phaneuf and Kessel, I will be positive that the Leafs are on the path to greatness.
An old saying, hard work beats talent. Talent and hard work, beats hard work. Unless the team works hard every shift of every game, what you see is what you are going to get I'm afraid.
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 02/01/2011 at 01:34 PM
@Sensi-Bill
Thank-you for posting something that was worth reading. It took you a very long time. I thought the Leafs were going to have a parade before you posted something well written. Or funny.
Posted by: waffles2010 | 02/01/2011 at 01:59 PM
Oh no, is this going to turn into a pissing contest? This blog has been great so far because the level of discussion is usually pretty high and 99.9% of the posters here are mature and lay out some good arguments and points withour personal attacks and/or reverting to name calling etc. I write some long posts, pyramid wrote some long posts, bill writes long posts, nik does and so on. I think the nice thing about this is that there isn't the word limit that the normal stories have so you can build out your point a bit easier. If Bill wants to spend his time writing thinly veiled shots at the leafs, then so be it. Most of the time, they are pretty funny and sadly, accurate. I dislike the Sens but I won't spend my time on Sens blogs but if Bill wants to spend time here and enjoys the back and forth, so be it. Anyway, turning our attention to tonight's game, any score predictions? Line-up changes? Trade rumours?
Posted by: TG77 | 02/01/2011 at 02:03 PM
I have just reread all the foregoing. Good Grief!
May I make one last observation about our esteemed coach. Last night on the McCown show, Glenn Healey said: Wilson is the wrong coach for this team. Players today respond better to coaches nearer their own age. Wilson is out of touch. 'Heals' pointed to Pittsburgh and Tampa Bay as having these new age young coaches and the response from both teams when the younger coaches arrived.
@Alecia, you may mistake me for Bomber and other creative posters as long as you like!
Posted by: Robert | 02/01/2011 at 02:15 PM
@waffles2019
en·e·my [en-uh-mee]
-noun
1. a person who feels hatred for, fosters harmful designs against, or engages in antagonistic activities against another; an adversary or opponent.
2. an armed foe; an opposing military force: The army attacked the enemy at dawn.
3. a hostile nation or state.
4. a citizen of such a state.
5. enemies, persons, nations, etc., that are hostile to one another: Let's make up and stop being enemies.
6. something harmful or prejudical: His unbridled ambition is his worst enemy.
7. the Enemy, the Devil; Satan.
Source: Dictionary.com
----------------
We don't all have to cheer for the same team. And if we share a love of hockey but happen to cheer for a different team, why do we have to be branded the enemy?
1. I don't feel or express hatred for anyone. I don't foster harmful designs against anyone. I don't believe I engage in antagonistic activities against anyone, and I don't see why I have to be considered an adversary or opponent. I have never wished or promoted anything negative against the Leafs and their fans and I've never predicated success for my team on failure by your team.
2. I am unarmed and have never been a member of the Armed Forces. Though I have nothing against our Armed Forces, which I support as a proud Canadian. (Wonder if I can somehow work mom and apple pie (lemon squares?) into this piece.)
3. While neither a nation nor a state, I'm definitely not hostile.
4. I don't believe anyone considers Canada a hostile state.
5. Again, I'm simply not hostile. My mom taught me to be a gentleman and a gentle man. The reward for being strong enough to be nice was plenty of butter tarts and lots of homemade apple pie.
6. Due to No. 5, I consider myself neither harmful nor prejudicial.
7. I am simply not anyone's enemy and though I may at times play what is known as "Devil's advocate," I am not the Devil. As for Satan, didn't he play for the Sabres? I am definitely not him.
So my friend Mr. Waffles, do you challenge me on content or form? I guess it's because my opinions are fairly solid, you attack HOW I express those opinions, namely the length of many of my posts. (Like this one.)
That may be a fairly accurate charge --- of which I am not the only guilty party --- but it's a rather shallow excuse for attacking someone.
So how to once more try to smear my relatively good name? Oh yeah, call me a name, brand me the "enemy."
Well I think my words I've been posting speak for themselves, so not only is this statement of defense not really necessary, I purposely made it long, not only to tease you but to afford you the attention you so obviously crave. (smile)
And THAT parting shot is all in fun and not fired with any hatred or animosity or hostility or any of those things, of which you may wish to falsely accuse me. (wg)*
* wicked (as in naughty or teasing) grin.
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 02/01/2011 at 02:17 PM
Wow. After all that, I have a burning urge to write something short.
Martin St. Louis.
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 02/01/2011 at 02:19 PM
Leafs should resign J.S. to a massive 1 yr deal, keep Reimer in minors so we have major sieveage in net and bring in 2 more overpaid, underachieving Dmen to become highest paid backend in league, i.e. tank 012 & the 013 work stoppage season & maybe even the full 014 campaign..dont trade a single pick!! & get overall #1 for 3 yrs - keep with youth movement & weed out the underperformer veterans over time a la Edmonton. Oh.. and LOWER expectations for fans STAT so we all know its a tank and draft deal. Result more likely to be a more competitive team that could ride playoff rounds from 015 on. If not, its more pain and suffering & zero Cup finals with this 'on the fly' rebuild that is NOT WORKING! at all. We have become way worse than the laughing stock of the league, that happened around the California roadtrip before JFJ got fired in Feb 08-- 3 years ago!!!!.. now we are a parody of a joke team with a 5 headed monster of a GM team running around in circles.
Posted by: chee | 02/01/2011 at 02:31 PM
@ hoofheartz - men of all ages are most welcome to join my flock of faithful devotees! Worship of the goddess Boo, or 'Booleaf', as it is more colloquially known (note there is no 's' at the end - pluralizing the word is the sure mark of the wicked!) is a rewarding and life-enriching practice. While I may appear capricious and passionate, I am in fact quite benevolent and merciful. My favourite offerings include cream soda jellybeans and hockey tickets.
As is the case with most deities, my powers do not extend to non-Booleafers, so I can't affect things I have no direct involvement with or those who have not accepted me into their hearts. (If you can figure out a way to spread my gospel throughout the Leafs dressing room, that might change however.)
Changing the subject:
I'm seeing a ton of speculation on the interwebs about trading Komisarek or Beauchemin (who both have limited NTCs, if memory serves). Surprising to see no one calling for Lebda's head to be on the block. He's the first guy I'd love to see punted. Wishful thinking? I'm just putting it out there, in case the universe is still attuned to my thoughts...
Posted by: Boo Who? | 02/01/2011 at 02:49 PM
@Sensi-Bill
Not sure that you are the person to be chastising others for craving attention. Not sure that flirting with much younger women, is something to be proud of.
Posted by: waffles2010 | 02/01/2011 at 03:17 PM
Waffles, you sure seem pissed off for no apparent reason. Buck up little camper, things will get better.
Posted by: hoofheartz | 02/01/2011 at 03:42 PM
@hoofheartz
My good sir, thank you for your enthusiasm. I am pissed off. Burke promised me a playoff appearance. I bought it hook, line and sinker. Now there are 33 games left and there is no chance they get to the promised land, again.
Vinay, just made me laugh out loud. That really was nice, he called Alecia a horse. I feel a little like one of Bernie Madoffs' investors. Minus the trust fund of course.
VM Replies: Good lord. For the last time, I did NOT call anyone a horse. A "saddlebag" is a legitimate fashion accessory for hip women everywhere. That was my belief when I wrote "saddlebag."
If I was operating with bad information, I have already apologized.
Posted by: waffles2010 | 02/01/2011 at 03:55 PM
@TG77
"Oh no, is this going to turn into a pissing contest?"
I'm not wearing any shoes, so that's one contest I'm staying out of, gladly.
"This blog has been great so far because the level of discussion is usually pretty high and 99.9% of the posters here are mature and lay out some good arguments and points withour personal attacks and/or reverting to name calling etc."
Thanks for summing up one of the main reasons why I enjoy hanging out here. As for why I may seem to spend so much time here --- it's more like popping in and out --- I have noted that I am a victim of health problems, which, since I haven't been able to work in almost a decade, leaves me with plenty of time. Perhaps more accurately that should be many fragmented periods of time, in which I often lack the strength or energy to do the many things I used to do, and the many things I dreamed of doing once I bid farewell to my career.
Even writing was a chore when it was limited to having to sit up at my desktop PC. But now with this truly portable iPad, and its wireless connection, I can indulge my fondness for writing AND interacting with people, even when I am bed ridden, or, as is more often the case, when I wake up at any hour of the night, or day, and have trouble falling back to sleep.
I know, this is probably too much personal information for what is after all a hockey blog. I include it, however, NOT in search of sympathy but as background and context that helps explain why I, even though a loyal Sens fan, seem to be here so much.
And I'll probably stay here --- while perhaps trying to post less often and write shorter posts more often --- until someone I respect here suggests I move on.
In the meantime TG77, thank you very much for your endorsement and compliments. ("If Bill wants to spend his time writing thinly veiled shots at the leafs, then so be it. Most of the time, they are pretty funny and sadly, accurate.")
As for Mr. Waffles, nothing serious there. I'm just having a little fun with him. (g)
VM Replies: William, Mi casa es Su casa.
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 02/01/2011 at 04:43 PM
@wiffleball2010
"Not sure that you are the person to be chastising others for craving attention. Not sure that flirting with much younger women, is something to be proud of."
.
Oh dear, now I'm in trouble for flirting. (My Lord, how lame can these attempted guilt trips get?)
Well Mr. Wafflebrane (wg), as the flirter I will leave it up to the flirtee -- whoever she may be, as I'm pretty sure ALL the women here are younger than I --- to determine the appropriateness of any compliments thrown their way. And by the way Mr. Blueberrywaffles (tongue in cheek), somehow I'm suddenly curious about the colour of your eyes.
As for attention, I am well aware of the human desire for validation through attention. Which is why I don't consider it a sin. And why I assume pretty much everyone here, if even on a subconscious level, craves, to some non-obsessive degree, said attention.
You may even recall how a while back I posted some questions on that very phenomenon. I even raised my hand --- o/ --- to indicate it was part of my makeup as well.
I teased you --- "chastised" was your own choice of word to perhaps cast yourself as victim --- about craving attention because your buttons are so easy to push and you seem to need some issue to be semi-outraged about so you can post with a purpose, so as to not look like you're doing it as a form of self-indulgence.
Me, I don't mind admitting that recognition, attention and self-indulgence are all reasons --- minor reasons, but reasons nonetheless --- why I write. However possibly informing and/or entertaining people are much stronger reasons. (smile)
Posted by: Sensi-Bill | 02/01/2011 at 05:07 PM