Game 37: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and Mr. Reimer

About an hour before a game starts, I now perform a superstitious ritual.

First, I pour vodka into a Leafs shot glass. Then with the glass in my right hand, I drop to one knee and repeat these words aloud: Please let the Good Leafs show up tonight. Please let the Good Leafs show up tonight.

Last night, it finally worked. The Good Leafs destroyed a comatose Ottawa squad that, truth be told, kind of resembled the Bad Leafs.

Super-sized rebounds, hot turnovers, sweet odd-man rushes, gelatinous free ice around the net – for a nice change, the Leafs were takers and not givers of this fare. For a nice change, I didn't need to perform another superstitious ritual, one that happens during the second intermission with the same shot glass but with words I can't repeat in a family newspaper.

Are you allowed to make resolutions on the second day of a new year? If so, I now resolve to just accept the split personality of these magnificent Leaf bastards.

You know? We are cheering for a wildly unpredictable bunch. This is our fate. This is the overriding lesson of a Jekyll and Hyde season.

Some nights, like last night, the Good Leafs will show up and do everything right.

Clarke MacArthur slaps home a rebound to start the assault less than two minutes into the game. Tyler Bozak scores two goals – Tyler Bozak! – in less than three minutes, both of which result from gorgeous, tic-tac-toe passing plays with Phil Kessel and Joey Crabb.

If Crabb can continue to turn Bozak into a sniper and Kessel into a playmaker, he deserves the Nobel Prize in Chemistry.

As they've shown recently against Edmonton and Jersey, the Good Leafs are especially skilled at pounding teams that don't take an active interest in not getting pounded.

Toronto didn't kill Ottawa so much as embalm them with theatrical aplomb.

Ottawa was dead before the puck dropped.

But with your indulgence, let's talk about goaltending on this fine Sunday morning.

James Reimer is a great kid. Before the season started, I recall chatting with a member of Brian Burke's management team. He said something like, "Reimer could be the best goalie we have."

"Really?" I asked.

"Oh, yeah," was the reply.

J.S. Giguere, the team's official No. 1 goaltender, is about a week away from returning after aggravating his wonky groin. Jonas Gustavsson, meanwhile, has struggled as the official No. 2.

I feel sorry for both of these guys, I really do. They care. They desperately want to win. They want to help their team. But this season, for whatever reason, they have done very little that would qualify as extraordinary.

Now to be fair, they have backstopped the Bad Leafs on most nights. Neither one has benefited regularly from the kind of offensive output the Good Leafs showed last night.

But here's the thing: Neither Goose nor Jiggy has stolen a game for the Leafs.

Not once.

It's true. Reimer has only played 1 game and 14 minutes in the NHL. That's a speck of sand at the beach. So I won't be ridiculous and make too much out of his spectacular .081 GAA or .973 save percentage, even though both are now tops in the league.

What I will say is this: If I had to place bets on which Leaf goalie could steal a game or three down the stretch if given a chance to play, my money would be on James Reimer.

Beyond his focus and technically-sound style, he also has a winning attitude. He never stops smiling. He's basically a human emoticon. And with a young, fragile team, you need someone in net who is not on tenterhooks. You need someone who is relaxed and upbeat and not churning on the inside, hoping for the best while expecting the worst.

No offense to Goose, honestly, but smashing your stick over the crossbar every time the other side scores is the absolute worst thing you can do for team morale. It also sends a message of despair to the opposition and to your fans.

So here is today's question: What should Ron Wilson do with his goaltending situation?

Comments

[Ken Baumgartner]

I will take the win every time but I don't want to get too excited about one win in a row. They played well and the Bozak goals were nice. I think Won Wilson will be a real fool if he did not go back to Reimer. Goose needs a break to get his mind back in order.

The playoffs are now out of sight in my opinion. The Last Calgary game was the tipping point for me. The only thing that would change my mind would be an 8 out of the next 10 game win record and even that probably won't be enough realstically. They probably need an 80% winning record right til the end now. As much as I would like it and welcome it, I can't see it.

So now what. I guess I need to wait until Burke makes his moves before throwing in the towel completely since that will be his direction I guess.

It is funny, I would not have been so hard on Nik Culoman if Burke came out at the beginning of the season and said we will not make the playoffs but that is not what happenned.

Alas we are left wanting yet again.

Looking for an entry song for the games, how about "Enter Sandman," by Iron Maiden?

VM Replies: Good morning, Bomber. "Enter Sandman" is by Metallica, no? Either way, I now have "we're off to never never-land" thundering inside my head.

[Pyramid Power]

Horrified at the prospect of Giggy coming back. Aaahhhhhhh I thought he was done for the year.

What should the Leafs do about their goaltending situation? Well, the plan at the beginning of the year was to have Allaire get Giggy working as Gustavsson's mentor. If Giggy was my mentor in any of my professions over the years I would be a very poor sad man now. He has not worked out at all, and the numbers and awful goals on video tell all fans all they need to know about Giggy.

Gustavsson. I can't call him Goose anymore Vinay, all apologies. His numbers and play also are a disappointment to say the least. He's been mediocre, but as I think you noted previously, his learning curve has been slower than a turtle's. The Goose has been slower than a turtle. And he is 26.

We are paying Giggy a lot of money do do his 'mentoring'. Sadly I suspect he will come back and it will be status quo: Giggy and Goose with Reimer back with the Marlies and Rynnas doing a job down there too. Giggy will be gone after this year. I still have a smidgen of faith in Goose, but it is waning very quickly.

If I was BB (this is for you Nik Culoman) I would break the awful news to Giggy that he is being Fingered as in buried with the Marlies. And bring up Reimer and let Goose and Reimer play out the year seeing who can do a job for us all the while letting our young Finnish star Juicy Jussi Rynnas continue to develop with the Marlboros. Will that happen? Of course not. One can only hope though.

We so desperately need to get our goaltending situation in order over the next three and change months of the year. Get this done at least please Brian, Ronnie and Frankie Allaire. For the love all that is holy let us begin next October with a clear number one goalkeeper than we can have some faith in.

VM Replies: A wise plan.

[leafland'r]

My answer to your question: let it roll.
I like the way Reimer choses to play in the blue. His cross-crease slides don't leave a frequent empty net situation long before the last minute of play.
He uses his stick to limited the size of a 5 hole., doesn't go into a butterfly as soon as the shooter drops a shoulder, and keeps it simple/solid with controlled rebounds.
Give him a chance and let Goose gander from the bench.

VM Replies: I worry about sitting Goose is all. The injury to Giguere was supposed to be his chance in the spotlight. But I'm with you on letting it roll.

[Ange]

Hey Vinay, great blog! (haven't had the chance to say that yet).
Last night's win was one of desperation for the buds (either because they are realizing that they are falling out of the universe that holds all the playoff spots, or just because they never want to be run through a killer practice like they were a couple of days ago), and it was against a bad team. Don't get me wrong, every win is worth 2 points - and 2 points against the Sens, or Habs always feel better for some reason - but we can't count on every team we play to play worse than the Leafs for us win. There has to be consistent effort - and although they won, the Leafs did disappear for some (short) stretches during the game last night both physically and mentally (2 2 man advantages for Sens? Really?).
Now, I like Reimer, but it may be too soon to anoint him the next goaltending saviour of the Leafs. Next year's projected tandom are Goose and Rynnas. Perhaps one or two goalies will be moved in the next couple of seasons to make room for Reimer, but there are few good young goalies in the system.
I have a question for you - last night the commentators reported that the Leafs had a solid offer for Versteeg from another team. Any insight on who that team was and how good of an offer it may have been for the Leafs to stop and consider it?
Cheers!

VM Replies: I have no idea about the Versteeg specifics. Everybody is very tight-lipped, as you can imagine.

[red5]

Exit light, enter night; take my hand off to never never land.

Thanks Bomber.

It sounds like Reimer has the right attitude; but this city can crush that, especially with goaltenders. Cujo survived it; Bester did, well, his best. But I think Belfour and Barrasso probably had the best attidudes of any goalie to play here in the past 30 years: aloof and uninterested in anything outside of the ice. They may not have been good for a quote, and they certainly weren't the friendliest, but they seemed to take most things (Belfour's back injury aside) in stride. Maybe that comes with experience (since they were both in the twilight of their careers), but the thick skin is what the Monster needs to learn.

Personally, I've become more pragmatic in recent years (i.e. since I've started paying for tickets myself). I want to be entertained (by the ON ICE product, to the trolls from MLSEL) when I go to the game. This becomes an even more important attitude by this point in the season. So if the Good Leafs show up more, I will be satisfied at the games I attend. That said, I have to agree with Bomber; I can't see playoffs at the end of this year (and I've never been to a "boring" playoff game).

For entry songs, I've always wanted to see an entrance timed so the starting goalie steps on the ice the first time you hear AC/DC say "You've been.... Thunderstruck!!".

VM Replies: What team plays Thunderstruck before a game? I thought someone did.

[Pyramid Power]

Enter Sandman indeed by Metallica gents. Great tune to get the crowd going.

Other tunes to get the ACC crowd pumped forthcoming. I do hope you are keeping a nice list of all the suggestions for the tunesmiths at our home barn Vinay.

Gotta have some Canadian content: Rockin' in the Free World by Neil Young. Pretty well any of the harder tunes by Mr. Young and Crazy Horse.

American Woman by The Guess Who. And I shudder to write this as I never liked Heart much, but that old tune Barracuda by the Wilson sisters has some punch with the guitar riff.

Any rocking tune by the Tragically Hip including of course 50 Mission Cap which I assume is already being played at the ACC. Any rocking tune by 54/40.

Rain and Love Removal Machine by The Cult. And so many more.

Loved the pic of Colton doing in Neil. Awesome! Great spectacle for the league in Pittsburgh last night. Good for hockey.

VM Replies: A slushy spectacle, indeed. Yes, I'm compiling a list of Songs For Leaf Fans.

[hoofheartz]

With all due respect to the Leaf goaltenders, I think any goaltender past or present (except Toskala) would be hard pressed to play well behind the current Leaf team. Yes they do let in some very soft goals but there are 5 other players on the ice and you have to admit on most nights they don't do their job very well either.

VM Replies: Yeah, the Bad Leafs don't make it easy on the goalies. Still, I'd like to see more of Reimer.

[Pyramid Power]

Just can't seem to shake my habit of calling Jonas Gustavsson Goose. Just looked at my comment above and I just couldn't do it. :) Must be giddy after opening up 2011 with a nice thrashing of the Hens.

[Account Deleted]

It seems like "The Cat" is the last time I had faith in a goalie.Entry song.How about sticking with Metallica and "Nothing Else Matters" By the way,thanks CBC for making me watch two periods streaming on my antique Sempron.If they just would not have covered the game at all, Centre Ice would have picked it up for me.Big news on Hockey Night in Canada?Crosby changes the way he gets his skates sharpened!Are you ******* kidding me?I live in Nova Scotia but if I hear one more commentator cooing over Crosby like a school girl I can't be held responsible for my actions.Thanks for listening.

VM Replies: We're always listening, Tim B. Happy happy to everybody in Nova Scotia.

[Ken Baumgartner]

Ange, Please, please, please no talk of annointing a savior after one game. Not even a passing thought. He played well enough to earn another game but that is it.

I would not want any goalies moved except Giggy. Payers on Defence I would want, Beaucheman, Komi, Lebda, maybe Gunnerson. I would take a first 1st and a quality player for Phaneauf. Forwards, Mitchell, Bozak, Brent, Brown, maybe Versteeg?

The good news about last night's win is I don't have to hear it in my office full of Sens fans.

Burke's song when thinking about a solution? Blowing in the Wind, Bob Dylan. You are right about Metalica, I always get those 2 bands mixed up, always.

[Pyramid Power]

What a bummer the rain would just not let up in Pittsburgh. It was so cold before that, but the weather just would not stay cold when the NHL needed it to the most. Too bad but they still got the game off so that is good. Kid Crosby sure took a heckuva hit. Hope to be able to find a way to watch that HBO special at some point over here across the pond.

I hope you are able to give our song suggestions to the guys running that show at the ACC Vinay. Have you found out why they play such dead music in general? Have you been in touch with them? Who are these guys, and why, pray tell, are they so utterly out of touch with the concept of crowd energizing music? Mystifies me to no end.

VM Replies: It's one of several posts I'll get up early in 2011.

[hoofheartz]

@Tim B. Who's your cable provider? The only time they showed the "Classic" were I live (NB) was in the 2nd intermission of the Leafs game and then when the Leaf game was over. Can't believe I'm glad I've got Rogers and now I need more therapy for having said it.

[morty "moe green" greenblatt]

Thrashing of the Hens yes but a Hens team that, as Vinay pointed out, had absolutely no interest in winning that game. Now THAT is a team that has quit on it's coach. And they somehow beat Pittsburgh? Wow.

Regarding the goaltending situation - I just don't know. I hate to crush Goose's spirit, but to be fair, he's just not getting it done. And you know that the stick across the crossbar is because it's "not okay" to slash Beauchemin or Komisarek across the back of the legs after every bonehead play. Imagine the bruises they'd have by now if the rules didn't offer them that protection.

I guess if pressed I'd vote for giving Giguere a good, long, long, LONG recovery time. At least another two weeks. I know Wilson likes to push his goalies to the point of injury, but what's the point of rushing him back now. I just hope Reimer gets another start before Giguere returns but I doubt it. Our best chance is if Wilson rides Gustavsson until his groin pops too. It's not unlikely.

So last night's was an adequate performance against a recently deceased team. It's fair to say that the Leafs have lost to similar teams this year so I guess the win means something. So not a great game but a solid effort that was enough to humiliate the Sens. When is Jersey in town next?

[Geoff Read]

Gustavsson's been disappointing but it's too soon to write him off.

Here's what should happen with the goaltending, and this will be unpopular but it's the best plan.

The Leafs should give the keys to the car back to Giguere. In competitive terms, it doesn't matter who plays because you could have Sawchuk and Bower back there and this team wouldn't make the playoffs. So you play Giguere and hope he plays well so that you can move him to a contender at the deadline for a draft pick or prospect.

In the meantime, Rynnas and Reimer get their playing time on the farm, and the Monster continues his apprenticeship (I'm sorry - I don't like "Goose"). After moving Giguere and next season you go with the two young guys who deserve it and keep the other on the farm as insurance.

As for the theme song, well, it's a bit of an oldie but I've always thought that the Stones' Gimmie Shelter has a good, menacing feel to it. Or if you want to be a bit more uptodate, Eminem's Lose Yourself has a similarly ominous and energizing tone.

VM Replies: You present a smart argument, as per usual.

[Alecia]

Whoa whoa whoa, let's not do to Reimer what we did to Kadri. I know that Kadri underperformed as a Leaf and needs more time in the Marlies to develop, but it worries me that after one game, everyone is hailing Reimer and calling for him to be our #1 goalie.

In all fairness, if Goose had been in net for that game, I bet he would have had the same performance, maybe even a shut out, but we will never know. True, Goose never stole a game for us, but at the same time, the goalie can only be as good as the team that's in front of him and a lot of the times, the team isn't that good, especially defence. Last night however, we saw a team that came out full speed, forechecked, backchecked, played good solid defence, capitalized on turnovers and created some great plays that resulted in goals. As a result, Reimer didn't see too many quality shots on net from those deadbeats Sens. We have yet to see what this kid can do.

I like Giggy, but in my opinion, if he is healthy, we should use him in a trade to a team in playoff contention that needs better goaltending for a power forward. He's a great goalie as well, but just like Goose, he is getting slack for losing games when the team that is supposed to protect him willingly hands the puck to the opposition on a silver platter. Last time the team came out like they did last night, was in Edmonton, and Giggy let in 1 goal.

All in all, I am not worried about our goaltending situation if Goose and Reimer become our 2 goalies. Both are young and should develop along with our young roster. They have what it takes to take this team far, as long as the team comes out and plays games like they did last night. I know it was just the Ottawa Sens, but as I stated before, the reason we won that game was because the Leafs put in a full solid 60 min effort including the goalie. They win as a team, and lose as a team.

On another positive note, it was great to see Bozak come out and get a couple in. I thought this kid was going to have a break out season next season, but hopefully maybe that will start now. Also, huge credit has to go to Kessel for creating that play that resulted in the 2nd goal of the game, Bozak's first. I don't care if Kessel doesn't score goals as long as he does more of what he did last night and create beautiful opportunities. Completely stole the puck, created a turnover and set up the play beautifully for Crabb and Bozak. Same goes for Versteeg in that 4th goal of the game. The kid has speed and won that chase to the puck that resulted in Boyce's goal.

Overall, it was a great solid effort by the team that was hungry for the win. I know a lot don't like him, but I hope Versteeg does not get traded. We need to keep more of our young talent to develop as a team and see what they can do next season and trade away valuable veterans who can fetch us something big. I truly believe that after a trade or two, and more games where the team click and plays together, we will be in playoff contention a year from now.

[ol]

One good thing if Reimer replaces Gus-tuf-son, no more nicknames that dont even make sense. "Gustufson" rhymes with "Bus-tufson", unless your'e one of the pretentious sods that pronounces "Paris" so it rhymes with "Terry." Im not sure of the correct pronounciation of Reimer, but I assume it rhymes with "Timer".......So how about his nickname is "Beamer"?

[Account Deleted]

@hoofheartz.We have Eastlink.We used to live in the sticks outside Bouctouche and as much as I did not like Bell Expressvu,I could get CBC feeds from coast to coast.Eastlink has just two.Halifax and Winnipeg,I believe.So I pay $30 extra to see every Leafs game through Centre Ice.But Centre Ice shows Sportsnet and Leafs TV.Only shows CBC when the Leafs are not covered locally.I'm pretty sure this is the first time I've heard anyone say they are glad they have Rogers.I will cut you some slack because the Leafs are involved.

[morty "moe green" greenblatt]

I know a turnaround and the playoffs are virtually impossible - but only virtually so. Unless there is some dissension in the dressing room that we are unaware of, Wilson has got to accept his share of the blame for the situation we are in. I say a coaching change could make a world of difference to this team right now and for the remainder of the season. Unless, as I said, something else is wrong.

Does anyone here have any insight into what might be the problem with the Leafs. Surely they are not this bad. Are their dressing room issues, big ones? Maybe Phaneuf is hated by the team. He certainly isn't playing up to his "captain" status or his massive salary. If I had to guess, I'd suggest he doesn't get along Grabovski, Kulemin or Bozak, Kessel and Versteeg. Just an unfounded guess. Any insights out there?

[Crippler]

I don't know if Giggy has a no movement clause but it would definitely be nice to see him do some "reconditioning" with the Marlies and Reimer get some more games in right now... I was excited to see Versteeg come to the Leafs and then once I heard there was interest in him I realized I wouldn't miss him too much if he goes... would love to see Crabb, Boyce, Zigomanis all get some time this year and somehow I feel that they would help us not give up a top 5 pick to Boston more than guys like Mitchell... I'm not expecting the playoffs but the higher up that first pick goes the happier I would be...

[We BeLeaf]

I say "Roll with Reimer!" OK, one game does not a goalie make, but this kid has done his time in the minors, so those of you who says 'this city can do you in', and 'he needs to grow a thick skin', best keep that in mind. Do I think he'll get more starts? I can't see it happening.
Looking at Reimer's demeanor, he looks as if he's on cloud 9 playing simply for the love of the game, doesn't he? Even the few minutes that he got at the end in the Carolina loss he looked as happy as kid at Christmas. I know there was mention giving this kid a nickname, but I'm seriously drawing a blank at anything that strikes fear into the hearts of would-be snipers. The Best that I could think of was 'Mr. Happy', or 'Guy Smiley' for that ear-to-ear smile. My second choice is James "Grim" Reimer. Sorry, but that's all I got...
Cheers!

[Pyramid Power]

Yeah, Ken the answer is indeed blowin' in the wind for Burkie. Could be a slow train coming up 'round the bend takin' him outta Toronto at some point if he can't find that answer or answers. I feel very sorry for him for the most part. A lot of people like to blame Burkie for the mistakes he has made, but Nonis, Poulin and his scouts have to take some of the heat too.

Who was watching tape of Komisarek in Montreal and decided this guy is worth millions and long term? Who decided on paying out millions for Beauchemin? Well, that was probably Burkie with his history in Anaheim, but I surely don't put this entire mess on him.

Looking forward to lots more great posts Vinay. Hope you solve the riddle that is the music scene at the ACC, and get to actually speak to the people involved. And why MLSE deems it OK to charge such outlandish concession prices? I am counting on you to find out these answers Supreme Leader. :)

[morty "moe green" greenblatt]

Just a final; cranky note on the "winter classic." It was painful watching Bettman talk about how it "precipitated" on the game. Who could possibly care about the "classic" except the brass at he NHL. I'm sure the players thinks it's okay, what do they care. I'm sure they'd like a game of pick-up basketball to break the monotony. And neither of these two teams actually needed the two points so it was a pretty meaningless game.

I really hate the TV series too. Pre-season or the all-star game is one thing, but regular season has to stop. It's makes a mockery of the game. Advantage or disadvantage, I think it's unfair for some teams to get outdoor games, games in Europe, whatever the gimmick while others don't. Would it be fair if Washington and Pittsburgh played all of the games between them in Europe for example. Or outdoors in front of huge crowds.If not, why not?

And all of this in the interest of "growing" a game I have no interest in growing. Why would I possible care if they grow the game in the US? Do I care about a viable franchise in Phoenix? Why would I? Boo to the Winter "classic." What exactly is so "classic" about a rain-soaked mockery of the sport in Pittsburgh? Screw Bettman's smug face and marketing gimmickry and give me back my game!

[morty "moe green" greenblatt]

I've never been to the ACC. What kind of music do they play? Is it just old or truly horrible?

[Alecia]

Moe - The opening song before the team comes out is always Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne, which I actually quite like.

[Pyramid Power]

So happy for Darryl Boyce. Good for you! All the adversity he has battled through to make it back and scored his first ever. Very nice. Cheers to this courageous man.

Colton laid a serious beating on Neil. My goodness, was he trying to kill him? Pretty funny to see Sens and Leafs fans just going wild behind them during that epic scrap. Decision clearly to The AnnihilatOrr.

The game in Pittsburgh and all outdoor games are just pure fun in my opinion Moe. And yes it helps the game in the States and here in Canada. Ratings go thru the roof for those games and that is always a good thing.

Don't you rememeber the first one in Edmonton? Lots of fun. Sabres vs. Pens? Beautiful. Fenway and Wrigley games were great too. Weather gods did not cooperate last night, but still good for the game of hockey. It's all about growing the game even in non-hockey markets like Phoenix, Atlanta, Miami etc... The more fans of the greatest sport on Earth the better.

Giggy basically can't be traded I would say to Alecia. Not gonna happen. He is not good enough, he is too old and he earns too much money at 7 mill a year until he goes UFA on Canada Day. No GM in their right mind would trade for him as much as I would like to see that happen. His career has been going downstairs for quite some time now, and he is very injury prone. Would you give up a power forward or anything valuable for JSG? Of course not.

Cheers to all here. Enjoy your weekend and We BeLeaf: let's go Thrashers! :)

[moe]

Thanks Alecia - I like it too. But why "always" Crazy Train I wonder. Mix it up a little. Geez, is it run by a robot?

[Bracken]

Pyramid Power is right - for the longest time, and even in spurts last year, the opening song that was played as the Leafs took the ice was "Enter Sandman" by Metallica. Each hair on my arm was always on end. While still a great song, "crazy Train" by Ozzy Osbourne lacks that certain 'panache'.

[Account Deleted]

What about that "Leafs Are The Best" song from the Passion Returns VHS?...................sound of crickets....................sorry.

VM Replies: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4rc-rmvEd8

[Account Deleted]

Great link!! Thanks VM. Cheesy song but man those guys had heart!

[Robert]

We have witnessed some of the 'newbies' playing, now, just bring up some of the other 'newbies' and you will have a team. Said earlier last year, Versteeg and Armstrong will be strong trade bait, pls, young prospects or draft pics, we got far too many 'veterans' hanging around now. Twas fun to watch. Passing and skating, brings back my youth.

[We BeLeaf]

I remember them playing 'Cochise' from Audioslave a few years back for the Leafs intro. It sounded great with their sound system.

[Alecia]

Moe - Well, to all 6 games I've been too, I've heard Crazy Train before the team comes out. I think it's a great song, it's much better when it's loud at the ACC.

[TG77]

I don't think Colby Armstrong is going anywhere but I am not sure if you were suggesting he should be traded Robert or that you suspect he will draw some attention. He seems like he is a) great in the room, b) never takes a shift off and c) was just signed this past summer to a pretty big contract. He is one of the only leafs that plays "Burke's" style. I am on the fence about Versteeg. The power play is much improved since he moved the point and he has won a cup and is just 2 years removed from a calder trophy nomination. He obviously couldn't have been thrilled initially with the thought of moving right after winning the cup but his play seems better lately. He also brings an edge and is an endless "talker" on the ice and along with Dave Bolland, he really got under the skin of the Canucks last year and scored some huge goals. If/when the Leafs are again in the playoffs mix, Armstrong and Versteeg will play a big part in my opinion.

Nice win by the juniors but good lord, second year in a row with some questionable goaltending. I think it's dumb of the fans to chant we want the USA because do they really want the US? They are a faster, bigger team with more competent goaltending and 8 returning players. The Slovaks took a few of their good players out with some dirty hits (and our boy D'Amigo especially took a nasty head shot) but I think the US is the clear favourite tomorrow. I hope I am wrong and can't wait to watch. It would be sweet redemption to beat the US and Swedes back-to-back.

Back to the ACC music, Sweet Emotion by Aerosmith would be decent. When I went to the continental airlines in NJ, they cued up Welcome to the Jungle before every power play and trust me, the mullets were flying in unison as the fans head banged and gave the devil horns (how a propos). One really great tradition and i realize much harder to do for hockey, but Pitt U fans chant "left, right, left right" when an opposing hoops player picks up the 5th foul and is out of the game and then yell "sit down" when they get to the bench. Also, when we lived in New Zealand, the fans chanted "you're so shi* it's unbelievable" whenever a goalie let one in. I think it's an EPL chant but it was so funny. Maybe not the best chant for the kid-friendly ACC.

[Robert]

TG77 I agree with your comments about Armstrong, I am not putting him or Versteeg down, but, realistically, he and Versteeg are probably the first ones clubs with a shot at the playoffs are going to come after. Giggy if possible, but I doubt there will be much action on Komisarek, Beauchemin and I am one of the few who would like to see a young Leaf defence keep Kaberle. We should keep all the young players on both teams - I think there is a reasonable young NHL roster there now. It will take them a year to get it together, but, they are fast and willing to learn. A couple of good picks or young players with potential could make a huge difference. And, Burkie could eat the rest of this year's salary for a player or two if it would make the deal.

[80s Leafs]

I think it was Leafland'r who made the "let the Goose gander" line above. That's golden!

VM Replies: It was definitely inspired.

[We BeLeaf]

Just out of curiosity, has it been announced in the media if Reimer has a nickname? I know some names were thrown out there on the last blog. Perhaps Vinay there could be something done like how the Monster was changed to Goose.

VM Replies: I'll ask about his "official" nickname.

[Pyramid Power]

"You're so sh*t it's unbelievable." LOL TG77 That is bloody hilarious. Freakin' Kiwis! Love 'em.

'Sweet Emotion' heard at the ACC this year. I do not know what is wrong with our Canadian junior goaltenders. Didn't see today's game, but obviously could not have been bad with a 4-1 win over the Swiss.

I guess we know we're gonna get the U.S. so better to dispose of them sooner than later. I think Canada will come up huge tomorrow and beat them. Gotta think that way. Shoulda won last year but wretched netminding got us. Not this year I hope. Hope D'Amigo will be OK. Have not seen any of the US games yet.

[TG77]

The goalie looked scared stiff today after letting in the first goal and Roy let in a few soft ones against the Swedes so I am not really sure who the ideal goalie is for tomorrow. Think Toskala-type goal today, about a minute in, didn't cover the post and it dribbled in; after that he mishandled a few easy shots and made adventures out of a few others. I agree about last year, Jake Allen looked pretty bad in the finals.

I haven't watched the US games myself this year but they beat Finland in OT in the first game and trailed the Swiss 1-0 before winning 2-1 so it's hard to say what will happen. I think the Canadian fans are doing their best to take away home-ice.

[Pyramid Power]

As a long-time sufferer of Post-Toskala-Stress-Disorder, or PTSD, I am prone to panic attacks, devastating depression and substance abuse when enemy forwards cross our blueline or any rubber is directed towards our net. I am working hard to overcome this disorder, but the play of Giggy and Gustavsson have not helped.

Hopefully Reimer can, but doubt that will be the case. I think Giggy is gonna be back sadly enough, and my illness will continue to degenerate. Jussi Rynnas gives me hope though, BUT he is Finnish too! The horror, the horror. Please pray for me my Leaf loving comrades. Thank you.

Seriously, I hope RW gives Reimer another start tonight against the Bruins. He was not really tested in Ottawa Sat. nite. Give him another shot against a good team and see what he can do.

And may the hockey gods be with our Canadian lads tonight against the States. Their goaltending situation also contributes to my PTSD, but hopefully Visentin gets the job done tonight. Just give your team a chance to win kid. That is all we ask and all we expect.

[Pyramid Power]

The Toronto Maple Schizophrenics. The good Leafs and the bad Leafs. Hhhmmmmm.

I am glad I only suffer from PTSD. Things could be a whole lot worse I suppose.

[Alecia]

Seems like Goose is getting the start tonight, unless Wilson pulls another bait and switch 15 mins before the game and announces Reimer like last time.

Boston is a very strong team, I'd be scared to put Reimer out there just for his lack of NHL experience. Plus I think that would be sending Goose the wrong message and putting too much on the shoulders of a rookie. Tim Thomas vs Reimer? I don't think so.

In my opinion, it should be Goose tonight and Reimer again on Thursday against the Blues.

VM Replies: Sigh.

[hoofheartz]

Anyone looked at the Leafs schedule this month? Yikes!!!

VM Replies: I was laughing about the schedule this morning. Well, half-laughing, half-trembling.

[Alecia]

Sorry Vinay.

[Alecia]

....apparently Goose isn't 100% yet for tonight. So it could still be Reimer.

[We BeLeaf]

Yeah Hoof, I checked it out earlier and it's going to be a tough month, probably the hardest of the whole season. The next 2 weeks have a few back-to-back games. Do you think Reimer will get a few more starts in, before Giggy comes back?

[Simon]

Don't know if people have already seen this (been out there for a few months now it seems), but it describes Canadian teams pretty well: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Zd5jTtzWx8

Of course, this was done before Grabo, Kuli, and Mac started playing big.

VM Replies: Funny stuff.

[leefan]

It was good to see the Leafs beat the Ottawa Rubber Wrappers. Nice to see some pretty goals scored on the rush, and by Bozack, no less. Might as well keep playing Reimer. Go Leafs, and Go, Canadian Juniors!

VM Replies: Ottawa Rubber Wrappers? There is now a coffee stain on the front of my shirt.

[Alecia]

Hey Simon, did that really air in the states?

HAHAHA hilarious!
Good reminder that no matter what the Leafs do, we always have Team Canada.

[Simon]

Alecia, I don't think it was real. The guy has some really funny videos, and a lot seem to be about the Leafs. There's also a great one featuring our old friend McCabe.

[Alecia]

Ottawa Rubber Wrappers, can we trademark that?

[hoofheartz]

Ottawa Rubber Wrappers? Best yet! Sensi-bill will be pissed.

[no moe green]

Rubber Wrappers? It's okay but I don't get the reference. Been monogamous for too long I guess. Anyway, how 'bout dem Leafs. Looking to stretch a one-game winning streak. Notice how one-gamers feel like three gamers for Leafs fans? Just me?

So Canada is going to try to upset (can't believe that "upset" is appropriate but I fear it will be so evermore) our continental rivals tonight. US Hockey has caught up to Canadian hockey I'm afraid. It's just a numbers game - they have a much larger player pool.

But more importantly, our Leafs are on the road to respectability. Can't you just feel it. Can't you see another unexpected victory against the under-performing Bruins? I can. Chara is so large that if someone can ever push him over, look out. Our luck he'd land on Grabovski and end his season.

So here's my prediction for tonight's game: 4-2 for the good guys. See Black Swan. Lebanese scene aside, it's an exciting film. And very unsettling. Not for kids. True Grit was overrated. Not enough character development. Didn't really care about Rooster or the girl. Ho hum effort from the usually fantastic Coens. On the positive side, It did have a very authentic feel to it.

K, enuf. Back to the Leafs. Speaking of Leafs, how horrible was "The Love Guru?" Wow, just wow.

VM Replies: Your comments complete me, sir. They really do.

[Vinay Menon]

The Star's Paul Hunter (one of the great guys in this business) has his game day story up: http://www.thestar.com/sports/hockey/nhl/mapleleafs/article/915211--marlies-joey-crabb-gives-hope-to-the-leafs

He says Goose likely to get the start, though Wilson is battling a "temptation" to go with Reimer. Come on, Ron! Let the kid play!

[moe green]

I got a suggestion on a nickname for Reimer. How about "six-hole" as in: If you wanna score on him you gotta make a new hole. What do you think?

VM Replies: I like it. Though if you say it quickly, it kind of sounds like "sinkhole."

[moe green]

True Vin, "sinkhole's" no good. Do they call you Vin? Should we? After all, we're nearly family. "Black Hole's" okay. How about "Singularity, Dark Matter." No, stupid. I say play Reimer if Goose isn't 100%. What can it hurt? They have to know what they have for next year. I think they really need to know what they have in Gustavsson too.

VM Replies: A number of family and friends do call me "Vin." I like "Dark Matter" -- ominous, foreboding, vaguely sinister. "The puck, it just vanished into... Dark Matter." Of course, Reimer would have to wear a cape. And that might screw with his game.

[Pyramid Power]

Hope Kessel, Crabb and Bozak continue the pace with good chemistry and production tonight. Won our last home game against Boston and looking for that to happen again tonight.

I think Wilson will go with Reimer again. Will see. Boston coming off a wild 7-6 loss in Buffalo and ending a five game road swing will want to clamp us down offensively. See if we can't fight thru it and get a W. Not ready to weigh in on a nickname for Reimer yet, but like Dark Matter. I like Sixhole too. Reimer sounds a bit like 'winner' too. I like Winner.

GO LEAFS GO! GO CANADA!

[Pyramid Power]

Watch out for Lucic. Leads Boston in scoring with 27 points. But Clarke MacArthur leads the Leafs in scoring with 29 points. Beautiful.

Let's win this for Grabbo's newborn. Again! Hope Crabb, Boyce and all our magnificent Marlboros do a job tonight. Great to see.

VM Replies: Big night. This is what picture-in-picture was invented for.

[Vinay Menon]

Taking predictions on what Bill Watters predicts the final score will be tonight. I predict Bill predicts a 3-1 win for Boston!

[We BeLeaf]

You had to bring Watters into this didn't ya? If the Leafs lose he'll be able to say I told you so. If they win, he'll come up with some excuse for negating his comments from before, but I rarely hear him offer compliments to the Leafs players.

Go Leafs Go!
Go Canadian Juniors Go!

[Pyramid Power]

@Moe Love Guru was indeed horrible by all accounts. STILL have not seen it despite multiple attempts over here.

How does a star and funny funny guy like Mike Myers who is such a Leafs fan blow that film? A complete disaster, but I still very much want to see it.

We BeLeaf was telling me he was watching it the other day with his family. I am envious. Stinks to be in the PRC sometimes, OK, it OFTEN stinks especially at this time of the year.

Where is Sarkozy? Where is Leaf fan in Oregon? So many have gone MIA. Downer.

Waiting for hockey action in the mornings here such a bummer. Time goes by soooooo slowly.

VM Replies: Reimer gets the start tonight. Thank you, God.

[Pyramid Power]

I predict Wilbur the nattering nabob of negativity predicts Boston wins 4-0.

Somehow I like Kypreos, guess it was because he actually played the game but Watters is just going senile. A very very poor man's version of The Don as in Cherry?

[Pyramid Power]

Reimer in? Outstanding!

Russia just beat the Swedes so if Canada can somehow beat the States tonight we go for the gold on Wednesday. Let's do this!

CANADA!

LEAFS!

[Pyramid Power]

Meant to say a Canada-Russia showdown for the gold on Wednesday would be so awesome! Horrible if we have to play the Swedes again for a paltry bronze.

Hope Little Schenn comes up big again tonight, and all our magnificent juniors.

[Pyramid Power]

Nice early chance by Grabovski. You can bet he will want to bag a goal or four for his newborn.

[moe]

Good old Komisarek - makes a nice hit then ruins it.

[Pyramid Power]

Thought that was a perfectly clean hit by Komisarek on Lucic. Oh well. Let's murder this penalty.

VM Replies: They showed this scrap between the two gents during pre-game: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjZbNtzsQFY

I present it without comment.

[moe]

I have a dream. That we chase Rask tonight. I say let's name every Leaf foalie "Goose" for obvious reasons.

[moe]

Gooose!

[moe]

Yeah, crap call PP.

[moe]

I got a good nickname for Rask: Assclown!

[Pyramid Power]

Nice kick save by Rask on Kessel. I like watching Smiley Reimer.

Leafs look good so far. Dead crowd. Too bad.

[Pyramid Power]

YouTube banned over here Vinay. Wish I could see that clip.

I share your dream Moe. Chase Rask quickly.

[moe]

I love that little guy!

[Pyramid Power]

Swimming upstream on my stream attempts this morning over here. Wish I had paid all my debts and had a credit card so I just could just tune in to all the games at nhl.com

Regrets? Yeah, I've got a few.........thousand!

GO LEAFS GO! Let's get the first one here.

VM Replies: Your steam is lagging. Grabbo baggo one a few minutes ago.

[Pyramid Power]

Happiness is fighting like crazy to get a stream and finally getting one and seeing the Leafs up 1-0. Have no idea who scored.

Who scored guys and girls? Description of goal please if you will?

VM Replies: Grabovski dekes on a breakaway after taking a beautiful alley-oop pass from Schenn.

[moe]

Nickname for Lucic: Assclown!

[moe]

good period.

VM Replies: Indeed. Though I think the three of us may be the only people not watching the juniors.

[Pyramid Power]

Grabbo baggo! LOL

YES! Do it for your baby girl and your girlfriend Mikhail. And would you make yourself an honest man and marry that girl for godness sic sakes! And score goals more because like you that do. :)

[Pyramid Power]

What a goal! Rainbow pass by Schenn and Grabbo baggoes one! Beautiful! Love it!

Time for Phil Kessel to score. Had some chances from what I am seeing now - take it easy Philthy. Relax. Score. Score.

GO LEAFS GO!

VM Replies: And across the border, it's now 1-0 Canada.

[Pyramid Power]

Watching an intermission interview with Seguin. Just thinking why couldn't Julien send him down the QEW for just one game? Why Claude why? Why Chiarelli why? Just a quick loan to our juniors. :)

We need him. And Hall. And.............

Hope you will keep us updated as to what is happening in Buffalo Vinay.

GO CANADA!

GO LEAFS GO!

[Pyramid Power]

Yes, yes, yes! Hamilton scores in Buffalo. 1-0 Canada.

Hope this will be a perfect tonight for all our magnificent bastards young and old.

[Pyramid Power]

Message for Leafs prospect Jerry D'Amigo on the U.S. squad: Please feel free to take the night off OK buddy? Thank you from a grateful Canadian nation, and dare I say, Leaf Nation?

CANADA!

LEAFS!

[Pyramid Power]

MacArthur with a good chance on the PP on Seidenberg. Let's go get another on Toronto.

Chase Rask. Chase Rask. Chase Rask.

[Pyramid Power]

Leafs fans just erupted at the news that Canada is up 2-0 now. Beautiful.

[TG77]

I cant type straight out of nerves and not because of the Leafs. That Canada game is pretty intense, tons of hits and ridiculous pace to it. I know it's the impossible dream but Phil Kessel, lay the body just once on Seguin.

VM Replies: Caught a few minutes during the intermission. Insane pace! D'Amigo nearly got knocked into Cheektowaga. Great energy.

[Pyramid Power]

No chance for Reimer on that snipe by Horton. Schenn did not look too good there. 1-1 here in Toronto. What is going on in Buffalo? Hope it is now 4-0.

CANADA!

LEAFS!

[Pyramid Power]

2-0 at the end of one in Buffalo. Excellent. Bring it home boys, and let's face the Big Russian Bear on Wednesday for all the hardware.

1-1 here in Toronto. Keep your focus on THIS game Luke and not on what is happening with little brother in Buffalo OK? Difficult to do I am sure. He wanted to watch the game between periods. Sheesh! Hope Wilson nixed that. Kinda. Understandable regardless.

CANADA!

LEAFS!

[TG77]

I am predicting a Clark "sparky" McArthur scrap before the end of the game. I have the NESN feed and these announcers are soo annoying and such brutal homers. The guy went bat shi* crazy when Horton scored and said "that will silence the critics, go right a column about that." He acted like he is his dad. Mute is needed.

[moe]

Phaneuf should take notes: When you hit the net you can score.

[moe]

C'mon Leafs - two in a row is a must.

[moe]

A one-timer and Kaberle scores there

[moe]

Gooose on Bergeron saved the game!

[Pyramid Power]

Bruins outplaying us this period. Savard ripped one home from the point and 2-1 Boston. Thought Reimer might have had a clear look at that shot from the point and might have been able to make the save.

Back to Buffalo!

CANADA!

LEAFS!

[moe]

Bruins announcers call him "Sagan." Is that right or is it Segeen?

VM Replies: I believe it's indeed "Sagan" with a long-A. Like Carl Sagan. Or Satan.

[moe]

3-0 Canada! But back to what matters: This IS a must win for the Leafs right? I mean, if they care anymore.

[Pyramid Power]

Really don't like the NESN Bruins announcers either Moe. Like their Bawston accents though. Pretty funny.

End of two and it is 2-1 Bawston. 'Boowins style of hockey that period.' Homers.

3-0 Canada now. We are rolling to Wednesday against Russia for the gold.

[Pyramid Power]

Replays showed Reimer had no chance on the Savard goal. Hope we come out hard in the third and find a way. 17-8 Booins SOG in the second.

[moe]

Wow, with any luck at all it'd be 5-0 Canada!

[Alecia]

Hmmm.... am I crazy to think the Leafs are still going to win this one? It's a crazy feeling I have.

VM Replies: Do you possess psychic abilities?

[moe]

Thanks for the info Vinay!