Game 41: The Leafs are reborn in the City of Angels

I probably shouldn't be writing at this ungodly hour. Not when I'm wired on Red Bull and adrenaline and bliss.

But screw it.

If Colby Armstrong can remove his visor after one period and hustle with a scratched cornea and face that looked like it was vandalized by toddlers brandishing Crayola markers, I can surely type a few words. If every single Leaf can avoid a negative plus-minus, the least I can do is be positive at 2:14 a.m.

You know how it seemed like we tumbled through a gap in the space-time continuum sometime after Game 5? You know how it felt like we were stuck in an abusive relationship, trying our best to remain faithful to a team that was cheating on us with a temptress named Mediocrity?

Well, let the healing begin. Let us trust these magnificent Leaf bastards once more. Maybe it won't last. Maybe we'll kick them out again. But for now, let us place our faith in a 2011 resurgence that is as inexplicable as it is increasingly spectacular.

Toward the end of tonight's rousing 3-2 victory over the Kings, this was the scene:

Less than two minutes remained. Dion Phaneuf was in the box for slashing. LA pulled goalie Jonathan Quick for an extra attacker. It was 6-on-4 as the crowd inside the Staples Center wobbled to its feet, preemptively clapping for the equalizer.

But our suddenly reliable Leafs refused to comply. They refused to disappoint us.

They swooped and dove after the puck like marine birds bobbing for fish. They jumped in front of shots with insane bravery. They won faceoffs and hammered opposition skaters along the boards. They set-up in box formation and stood their ground, fighting for every positional inch of ice as every second of time ticked down.

And when the buzzer sounded, when their fourth consecutive road win was relegated to history, they swarmed the mighty James Reimer who stopped 30 of 32 shots, including all 17 in the third.

Before Reimer skated off the ice, his ruddy cheeks drenched with rivulets of sweat that cascaded down his brow, Ron Wilson grinned – he smiled! – and pumped hands with his assistant coaches, including Tim Hunter who was celebrating his 1,000th game.

And who could begrudge any of this celebration? Yes, there's a lot we can still be mad about this season. But the Leafs begged our forgiveness with another impressive road game. Against a very good, very fast team that drives the net and takes no prisoners in the corners, the Leafs put on a clinic in grit, heart, poise and confidence.

If the game against Atlanta was a statistical aberration, this one felt like the New Normal. If Game 5 to, say, Game 36, felt like we were stumbling around inside a pitch-black labyrinthine maze – one step forward, three steps back – Game 41 felt like we turned a corner and ambled up a ladder toward the light.

It wasn't just the goals: the nifty create-a-screen snap shot by Darryl Boyce; the flawless one-timer by Phil Kessel; the never-say-die rebound hunger of Nikolai Kulemin. It wasn't just the puck-moving defence or the stellar goaltending.

No, the most impressive aspect of tonight's game was something that's not quantified in a box score: Even when they allowed the first goal, even when LA was pressing, even when the referees were paying homage to Kerry Fraser with a startling number of missed calls, the Leafs always looked like winning was the only logical outcome.

They believed in themselves. They are making it impossible for us to not do the same.

Apologies if this recap is freighted with maudlin overtones. I'm just really happy and hopeful. The good Leafs, they've come back to us.

PHOTO: LUCY NICHOLSON/REUTERS

Comments

[Karl Poulin]

Hi Vinay!

I love the blog! It's great to read the mostly positive side of things from the opposite side of the world, here in Shanghai. There are rumours of trades coming. Who do you think might be on the block? Do you think that the Goose could even be included? We all know that Giguere will be on his way out after this season, and Reimer has been awesome. Might be too soon to tell though.

VM Replies: Good morning and thanks for reading from Shanghai! Are you able to access this blog without any problems from there?
I have not heard anything new on the trade front, at least, not with respect to specific players/transactions.

[Grabbo]

I am happy. They are playing like they can and the results are coming. They finally have cought up to Ottawa and Florida and are 1 back of Calgary. They have keep this 2011 80% winning clip up. Here's hoping. The rally cap (hair hat) remains on for the next game.

VM Replies: Need a picture of you in this hair hat.

[Robert]

Nicely done boys. The youngsters are coming through! Keep reading about the captain, giving the puck away, being turned inside out, and a slashing penalty in the last two minutes of the game. (Tis not leadership me thinks!) I think there are two young defencemen in the Marlies who should be up here. And a couple of forwards who could contribute. But, I will take the win. I could not watch the game, and I see no mention of Tomas, did he play well? There seems to be chemistry developing which often happens when you leave your lines together.
Go for 600 Ron. Perhaps you should leave the lines alone and sit back a watch, this could be an exciting team before the season is out.

VM Replies: Kaberle was mostly a non-factor. A couple of nice outlet passes in the first 30 minutes, no defensive miscues (unlike the captain on the first LA goal). He logged just over 20 minutes but didn't factor into any real scoring chance and didn't manage to get a shot.

[Becky]

Unfortunately I ended up missing this game due to an early 6am wakeup call this morning, but I couldn't help but smile as I heard the score over my radio at 5:30am this morning.

We won - again! Even though I missed it, it's was great to hear. Actually I've sadly missed the past 3 games becuase of annoying other plans. But maybe thats why we're winning. I'd be willing to sacrifice not watching more games if it mean the Leafs win more.

Your blog helped me visualize the game though as if I had actually watched it and I look forward to reading it this morning so thanks for staying up at late/early hour to post it. Go Leafs Go!

VM Replies: You're welcome, Becky. And just to be safe, maybe you shouldn't watch until this winning streak ends!

[Account Deleted]

Welcome back Leafs!

VM Replies: And welcome back, TimB.

[Stephen Seymour]

Great game, great effort by both teams. The Leafs supplied offence when needed but stood four abreast on their blue line when the clock was winding down and frustrated the Kings with good defence and better goaltending. Well earned two points.

Am hoping that a trade of Giguère before be completed before Reimer is sent back down. If G.S. can be part of a package that brings a good young forward to the Leafs it will certainly enhance this teams chances.

VM Replies: If Giguere is part of a deal, he'll first need to waive his NTC.

[Simon]

This was almost a textbook game. The speedy Leafs vs a speedy and physical Kings. They took it to us, but we prevailed. Not much more can be said, except we got something we haven't seen in a while: all three lines got a goal!

VM Replies: Indeed, a textbook road victory.

[We BeLeaf]

Good morning Vinay, I just read the game recap by McGran here, and in particular this line....

"At 17-20-4, the Leafs are well out of a playoff spot, but have moved into a three-way tie for 11th with 38 points, tied with Ottawa and Florida."

Just out of curiosity, is this the general consensus around the water cooler at the Star? As positive about the team as I would like to be, I am not naive. I do not have delusions of grandeur that the Leafs will finish first place in the conference, but it seems like he (along with most) have already written them off for the season. No offense intended to you as I respect your work, but perhaps Wilson is right: the media not reporting, it's critiquing. I'm fairly certain that we aren't even mathematically eliminated as yet, so I don't understand what the intention of stating this would be. Nuff said, let's take the 2 points and get win number 600 for Wilson tonight against the Sharks tonight.
Cheers to all in Leafs Nation!

VM Replies: Good morning, We BeLeaf. I haven't seen Kevin for a while so won't speak on his behalf. But to me personally, as a reader, I didn't infer anything negative about that sentence.
The team is playing well. No question. But there are 11 points between them and the final playoff spot.
So, semantically, "well out of" seems fair to me. It doesn't mean they won't make the playoffs. Just that right now, at 17-20-4, they remain at an uncomfortable distance.
If they can close the gap to single-digits by the end of the week, I suspect game story language will reflect this upsurge.

[Alecia]

Why does every leafs game feel like a playoff do-or-die game?

This blog almost brought tears to my eyes. Or it could be the bright screen that I am forcing my tired eyes to stare at, I don’t know. Despite the unmotivated half-asleep look on my face, I am super giddy about last night’s win. God, they deserved to take the 2 points, if not for that fact that they played like mad and never gave up, but for the fact that the refs made a deal somewhere with someone to do everything in their power to ensure a Leafs loss.

VM Replies: The combination of do-or-die, Red Bull and an unwise decision to just not sleep at all is taking its toll this morning.

[Account Deleted]

Any doubt that Alecia is a true Leafs fan can now be put to rest.Yup,we don't have to make the playoffs.Every friggin' game feels like a playoff game.I'll be sitting with my specially brewed coffee looking at Ron Wilson's win #600.Go you "magnificent Leaf bastards"

VM Replies: Is "specially brewed" a euphemism of some sort?

[oakville_girl]

"even when the referees were paying homage to Kerry Fraser with a startling number of missed calls"

Were you in my brain last night? Totally what I was thinking as I was getting frustrated with the phantom and non-calls.

Great recap Vinay, thank you for your dedication in staying up late (early?) to write it.

Here's hoping that we're wishing Ron a happy 600th tonight! Go Leafs!

VM Replies: You see what's going on here? You're now watching again and they are winning. But Becky is not watching and they are winning. You've switched spots in the unseen universe.

[Lisa]

What a WIN last night ! May be it was due to B.B.stepping on the ice and he broke the curse a couple of days ago ? Or his loyalty to his coach paid off ? For the sake of Leafs, lets hope Wilson get his 600 win tonight ! Kudos to the effort of our "NEW" goalie J.R.

VM Replies: We were trying to come up with a nickname for Reimer in the comments last night during the game. Why didn't we think of J.R.? That's so perfect.

[Alecia]

TimB, was there ever a doubt?

[M Khatri]

Vinay must be on Red Bull. One win and he is ga ga all over the leafs! There is no consistency in leafs and GM Burke does not have a clue how to make a winning team.

[Alecia]

Hey Hey hey, it's THREE consecutive wins and four on the road. Us leaf fans deserve to celebrate any and all wins that these boys can manage and we will continue to do so, without or without redbull (and vodka).

[whatthe!]

11 points out of a play-off spot?? That would be if the teams they are chasing continue to play and win in the second half like they have so far.I see it like this 3-5 teams ahead of the leafs better beware if they tank in the least bit and we keep up our winning the play-offs are easily attainable! come on three teams to pass? we just past Ottawa who is next???
Vindaloo- absolutely loved your last blog I laughed all the way through it. Even had to watch the video and laughed as I saw myself yelling and high fiving with my young girls and wife after the game I WAS that guy! thanks for that

VM Replies: My only goal in life is to make people feel like stars in a Viagra commercial.

[Account Deleted]

In the "other paper" there was talk of a nickname for the Grabo line.Someone came up with "Mac n’ the USSR". I wish we did have lines stay together long enough to be nicknamed like the old "DEL Line"

VM Replies: Hang on. There's another paper?

[gOogl3pl3x]

First off what was with the missed calls. Even with the refs on LA payroll the leafs pulled it off.
Second great game by the leafs! This is not a game we normally win and I was holding my breath everytime the Kings wound up for a slapper. I am so glad we have turned a corner and don't break down with a minute to go to be scored on with seconds remaining (ie. Lightning, Sabres).
Lastly just wanted to give a quick whats up from East York Vinay! Coxwell and Danforth!

VM Replies: Wow. I'm at Pape and Danforth. For our first group meeting, we should pick a place somewhere in between.

[Geoff Read]

I have to admit I didn't watch the game. But then, I've got two kids with colds at the moment so sleep is a precious, precious commodity.

Regardless, I have to warn you Vinay, against what appears to be a scorching case of Leafsorrhea. This a disease that afflicts Leafs fans after their team wins 2-3 games and they lose their minds, get very excited, at times delirious, and start to make wild statements like calling their team "magnificent bastards."

The antidote for Leafsorrhea does not involve a flaming splint, you'll be glad to hear, but rather a healthy dose of perspective.

VM Replies: Always nice to hear from you, Mr. Read. I take your point. I do. But right now, I'm kind of liking the affliction. I'm ready to embrace Leafsorrhea and suffer the consequences to my mental vision.

[Ostrich Lover]

Hey I am just wondering, but why is it that every player and line needs a nickname? Personally, I find the whole nickname thing ridiculous - I like Ron Wilson's completley uninspired nick name philosiphy- Philly, Kabby, Kuly, Giggy, Reimy, Phaneufy, Grabovski-y etc....

Also, what is the deal with the intense crititisism that has crept into the game the last couple of years? Do you think it is a part of the blogging/internet/comments/increased coverage that has happened in the last decade? For example, there are usually 3 goals on avg scored against the Leafs every game and it seems that there now has to be fault awarded to a certain player on every goal. I mean, certain goals are clearly the result of bad plays, but sometimes a guy misses a check and the goalie blows it too. IT just doesnt seem productive to, for example, blame Phaneuf - which i have seen about six people mention in various posts and articles today- for the first goal. Yeah it probably was his fault, but this creates the impression that he didnt play a good game, since he also didnt score,but i was actually paying him unusual attention last night and he played the solid if unspectacular game that he usually does, even if it doesnt get noticed. He threw some huge hits, played solid and that penalty was total garbage. After Schenn, he was easily the best leaf defenceman.

VM Replies: Is the person who self-identifies as "Ostrich Lover" really inquiring about the use of nicknames?

[gOogl3pl3x]

Astoria!
Settled we are taking everyone for GREEK and then lemon squares back at my place. The people not down with greek can go to Magic Oven.

[gettingcozywithsarkozy]

Thumbs up to the "homage to Fraser" comment. Ha! How blatant some of those misses were last night! I just don't understand. Okay the "grab-a-grabo" in the corner happened so quickly (even though both officials were right there) I can somewhat cut them slack there, but the too-many-men call that almost seemed like it happnened in slow motion with the 6th player obviously touching the puck and then diving back into the bench was unexcusable! Nonetheless, I am happy with the win.

Ostrich: ain't it crazy we are starting to compare the rest of the d-men to Schenn?!??!?

[TPiddy]

I'm another one that can't watch the West Coast games due to work responsibilities but these magnificent bastards keep exceeding my expectations at every turn!

People love to criticize Ron Wilson, but he's got a proven track record of player development, and if you look at Schenn, Grabovski and Kulemin you can see he's doing it again here in Toronto. I may just have to get me a #41 jersey to go with my #2 jersey.

[TG77]

I caught most of the 2nd and 3rd last night at my parents home in Oakville and I was most impressed with the way they handled the 6 on 4 and no major sense of panic after the 2nd Kings goal went in. I was at Real Sports Bar with friends last night but they all wanted to leave before the Leafs game started to get home to their responsibilities. I love that bar and Vinay, you should hold a 1st annual meeting of the fans of this blog there! It's also a good thing the apparel store was closed because I was pretty close to dropping $200 on a Colby Armstrong jersey after a number of brown pops! Your crayola analogy was incredible!! His face is a mess.

VM Replies: Actually, that's not a bad idea. Real Sports is an impressive venue. We could project our itinerary on the two-floor screen. We could nibble on gourmet lemon squares and drink freakishly large brown pops...
Yeah, when I first saw an ISO-shot of Colby's face, I thought my HD feed was malfunctioning: You could actually see the streaks of yellow, orange and blue.

[Al]

So... is this all because Colby Armstrong is back?? They're playing like a different team now.

VM Replies: I don't want to sound like a broken record but to me Reimer is the difference right now. Confident, composed, technically brilliant and one hell of a traffic cop back there.

[TG77]

It would at the very least be interesting when 2 people try to register as Ostrich Lover at the sign-in desk at Real Sports. Predictions for tonight's game anyone? I will miss the game entirely so I can fly back to Vancouver. I am getting more "taunting" emails from my students when the Canucks got to 1st overall. One of them was asking for a reference letter for grad school. Interesting approach! Is the Pyramid one making any progress on getting back to being able to access this blog?

VM Replies: I'm not sure you should return to BC. Look how they play when you're in Ontario. No progress for PP, alas. I was copying and pasting his emails last night into the comments thread.

[KWood19]

I missed the game thanks a student budget's inability to afford leafs TV. you sure make it sound like one hell of a game. now the real question: can Reimer keep it up? I'd sure like to hope so. and if Reimer keeps up his solid play for say, the rest of the season or at least until the trade deadline, because they see no point in sending him back down, does that make Goose trade bait at the deadline?

VM Replies: The plan, as it stands right now, is to return Reimer to the AHL as soon as Jiggy is ready to go. But if he keeps winning, I just don't see how they can do this.
I don't think Goose is going anywhere. Jiggy, on the other hand...

[Tom]

Am I psychic, VM? IS MY DREAM COMING TO TRUE?!

D:

VM Replies: I scoffed at your crazy dream a few weeks ago. Now I'm starting to think you are actually controlling my little world.

[MikeMallon]

Thanks Vinay. There is still hope

[Alecia]

Reimer! Reimer and his unwavering composure in net is the difference in this team. His confidence reverberates through the team. Maybe Gusty can cash in on some of that confidence and find a way to become a more solid net minder.

Predictions? I say a one goal game. 4-3? 3-2? Leafs of course, I dare not predict any other way.

[Alecia]

Oh and for those who care or are interested, Phil Kessel has been voted in to play in the All-Star game.

So either there is a large number of pro-Kessel Leafs fans who voted (in which case, how come Schenn didn’t make it? Seems like he is a big favourite) or a lot of people think more of Kessel than most Leaf fans? Wonder which it is.

[Nik Culoman]

Congrats to the Leafs for a great game..I missed it but from what I have heard from friends is that they played another great game...Now that they are winning though....I think that the Leafs should fire Wilson, fire BB, reverse the Phanuef deal, fire the entire management staff, stick to plan that most of you had before this winning streak.....As that may help to reverse this team's fortunes (I say all this sarcastically).

What do you know...Patience, and time seems to have reversed this team's fortunes....They are creeping up the standings slowly....Watching teams like the Hens and others drop faster than I can type are poorly written comment on this blog hahahahaha

BB and staff look like they made some solid decisions, thank God they never buckled to the whims of an emotional fanbase.....For those of you who wish Phanuef wasn't on the team....Do you remember who we traded to get him??? Calgary can keep Stajan, Hagman....They have already lost White & Myers....So if you think this team is better with Stajan, White, Myers, Hagman than I don't know what more I can say......

I am happy with this team's performance.....I am seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, and I think my unwavering support and faith in this team is being rewarded.

By the looks of it as well...Some misunderstood the point I was trying to make yesterday, so I will make it clear.....I wasn't debating the rebuilding plans that the Kings/Leafs were on...I was only stating that the fanbase/media aren't as intense in L.A. as they are in Toronto...That a 5 year rebuild could be easily implemented in L.A. than in a market like Toronto.....

Toronto has the pressure of 43 years of loosing....Whereas if the Kings loose who truly cares in relation the intensity of hockey coverage that the Leafs receive in Toronto.....The Kings would just get shifted down the sports pages until they were good again because in L.A. there are more sports teams to write about.....and the rebuild would go realitively unnoticed. Unlike in Toronto where we have 24/7 media coverage, blogs, newspapers, major sports channels, so on all stationed in Toronto.

Now if anyone (waffles cough* cough*) would like to debate that simple point and tell me that hockey coverage in L.A. is similar to that in Toronto...That the media/fanbase alike would have accepted 5 years of loosing and not making the playoffs....Than where have you been since BB came into town?? Where have you been even before BB came to town and people were screaming bloody murder once this team stopped making the playoffs....

That is a simple point.....Not hard to grasp....But I would have to say that sports talk/media exposure here in Toronto is simply Hockey...L.A. with the Lakers and others the Kings sort of get a break if they aren't winning..That doesn't mean the fans don't care or they don't have faithful fans....I am arguing the fact that the kings just don't have the same pressure to win like here in Toronto.

[ostrich lover]

Does anyone else think it interesting that Phaneuf has gone from perhaps the most overrated player in the NHL to the most underraated? Also, I think the reason his scoring is down is because he has been justly accused of making crazy descisions for offense at the expense of defense in the past, and has tried -successfully I think - to take the risk factor out of his game. Once he realizes that he can do both he will be crazy good, lets remember he is only 24.
Also, if I had any line of communication to eithe Burke or Wilson or Dion himself, I would ask him if he has ever considered using a wood stick to help keep his shot low/ on target. Maybe he already uses one, I dont know, but I assume he uses a compasite and if so, why not experiment and see if you cant trade a few mph for more accuracy.

[Simon]

Honestly, that game was why I love to play and watch hockey. There are a lot of team sports out there, but hockey is completely different from them all: its completely inclusive, meaning you need a great game from everyone, and there are so many techniques to winning. You can be a speedy team, or you can be a checking team; an offensive team, or defensive; cycling team, or just put everything to the net.

Last night, we saw a team in LA that is better than the Leafs on paper. BUT, the Leafs won because they adapted to the flow of the game and played their hearts out. It was a pleasure to watch because it was tense, and the puck seemed to be trapped in our end a lot, but we kept our feet moving and made each of their mistakes pay.

Let's hope that the Leafs want to win one for Wilson tonight! It's going to be a tough one.

[Sensi-Bill]

Congratulations, AGAIN, guys & gals.
Starting to feel that this Congrats thing could become a habit.
And yes, as much as I feared, you've caught my sad sack Sens though those bastard/magnificent Sens (<---- intentional) recently played two of their strongest games of the season and still lost, narrowly.
Am I worried? Yes and no. This continued slide means we have to re-evaluate and no doubt make changes, perhaps even do an almost complete rebuild.
It's probably about time and may be a bit overdue.
(But then who would have thought our big-name UFA signing, Gonchar, would have such a horrendous season? Or that our younguns, like Foligno and Regin, would suddenly regress after showing signs of improved scoring in the playoffs last year? Or that our skilled top-six forwards would have such trouble bouncing back from off-season operations and injuries and advancing age?)
My consolation is that unlike with other NHL teams in Ontario (g), it shouldn't take us 43 years to get back to the upper echelons of this league, let alone this division. (wg)
(That dark enough for you, Vin?) (g)
And maybe now that your MLBs are winning, maybe I'll go back to playing devilish advocate. (devilish grin)
No Mr. Nice Guy?
Yes and no. Iffen I screw around witchuse a bit, I promise to still like and respect you in the morning, or whenever I get to post. (chuckle)

VM Replies: Yes, Sensi-Bill, that was plenty dark enough. And a touch menacing. I wonder if Psychic Tom or Psychic Alecia can tell me when the next Sensi-Bill/Nik Culoman scrap will take place.

[Alecia]

Sensi-Bill - is there ANY way that underneath it all you bleed blue like everyone else here (well, almost everyone)? You spend enough time on this blog among us, might as well come over to this side. Consider it, will you?

[Account Deleted]

I never have any interest in the all-star game but this year I want to see how Dr.Phil performs with an all-star center.

[On the blue and white journey]

Dude, you can write. You may be the second coming of Milt Dunnell.

VM Replies: You are very kind. Thanks. But Mr. Dunnell was consistently a Gretzky and on most days I'm not even a Semenko.

[Henry]

"Long-time-listener-first-time-caller" Vinay, *LOVE* your blog. It must be hard doing so much writing, but please keep it up. I follow the mainstream sports media coverage of the Leaf's, cause I'm a die-hard fan and can't get enough of 'em-- but most of it is dull and repetitive. This is why I've always followed Damien Cox's articles-- it's more opinion piece, though a bit too cynical at times (can we blame him?!)... I'm curious what your traffic stats are like-- I bet they're quite good. The Star will be forced to give you a raise and bring you back next year I'm thinking! You're a good alternative to the usual fare, and I've recommended you to other readers so don't go away just yet now... Henry

VM Replies: Thank you, Henry. Will you be my agent?

[hoofheartz]

So who here cheered for the Blue and Gold of EYCI? VM? gOogl3pl3x? Anyone else but me?

PS - the school and I parted ways in 1975 so maybe it isn't EYCI anymore.

VM Replies: I didn't grow up or go to school in EY. So can't say I have done any cheering.

[We BeLeaf]

I read that Bettman was in attendance for last night's game, possibly explaining why the refs were 'paying homage to Kerry Fraser'.

Coincidence?

[gOogl3pl3x]

Still EYCI and I still see the blue and gold around. I think that since you parted ways the uniforms have become a little more... Lets just say I don't think I would want my daughter going to the school if she was dressing the way the girls do there. I feel sorry for the parents of thos kids. I would be mortified.
Anyways back to hockey...
Go, you magnificent leaf bastards, go!

[Simmer]

@Alecia

Just a note about Phil the Thrill. Once the fan votes are tallied for the all-star game and the top vote-getters secure their spot, a selection commitee picks the remaining all-stars I believe, so it wouldn't have been fans voting him in. Its also worth noting that every team HAS to be represented at the all-star game which would explain why Kaberle has so many appearances.

On a side note, quite the Red Bull-infused writeup, very enjoyable read. Now off to swim with the Sharks and the always dangerous....Ryane Clowe?

[Marc Clement]

I just wanted to add that one additional point of note should have been to give commendation to the LA Kings organization for the respectful and tasteful pre-game ceremony and Canadian National Anthem involving Canadian troops. Pure class.

[hoofheartz]

Simmer, I think that whoever the 2 Captains are at the all-star game get to pick their respective teams after the starters have been voted on by the fans. Kinda like a good old-fashioned road hockey game.

[Sensi-Bill]

@Alecia
Come over to your side?
Sorry babe, not even if you married me and left all those other spellbound suitors standing at the door. (smile)
(And please take "babe" as a compliment since, as I can't see you, my admiration and affection are obviously based on your smarts, spirit, and yes, faith. In other words, I like the way you think and write girl. "Girl"? Well with our 37-year age difference (38 in a few days), I can't help thinking of you as a pretty young thing.) (kindly old coot smile)
No, as previously stated, though I have on occasion admired Leaf players, and pulled for the team in certain situations --- mostly back in the '60s --- they have never really been my team. And if they were, I wouldn't have stood for 43 years of mediocrity and wouldn't have considered demanding better to be a form of disloyalty. (Quite the opposite in fact.)
As also stated previously, "my" teams have been the Chicago Blackhawks in the Hull-Hall-Mikita era, the Edmonton Oilers in the Gretzky-Messier-Feuhr (sp?) era and the Ottawa Senators in the Return-of-the-Home-Team era. With, and you're probably not going to like this, the Montreal Canadiens my team by default between eras.
As for spending so much time here. Well having been off work on long-term disability for almost a decade now, time is something I have a lot of, if not always the energy to do all I would like with it.
And I obviously like it here. I like Vinay's posts and many of the comments and commentators inspired by those posts.
I do follow other blogs, and post elsewhere. But I think part of the appeal here is that it's certainly not Sens all the time and the silliness of some of my fellow Sens fans can drive me nuts.
That's not to say there aren't silly Leaf fans here ---Hi Nik (wg) --- but whenever someone is making outlandish statements here it's more funny than frustrating because most of the time they are NOT talking about my team. (g)
And I do like poking holes in the pompous --- still here Nik? (wg) --- but most of all I like playing devilish advocate.
And did I mention I pretty much like everyone here, even those who brand me "the enemy"? Which I've come to take as a bit of a compliment I should perhaps do more to merit. (g)
And if I do enter more of the dark side --- as requested by our intrepid Red Bull-guzzling, lemon-tart-eating leader --- to challenge Leaf fans here, remember the classic truism found in religion and art --- without the dark, there is no light.
Now, I've probably mentioned it before, but for fun, given the length of my posts, and my almost anal aversion to typos --- and occasional fondness for alliteration --- can you guess what profession I enjoyed more than 30+ years in before being forced to the sidelines by declining health?
One final note, this new iPad I got for Christmas --- OK I ended up using it before Christmas and only the empty box ended up symbolically wrapped and placed under the tree --- allows me to browse and post pretty much from anywhere at anytime. (The PC is too rooted to one spot and the laptop was too heavy, awkward and heat-prone to be truly mobile.) So watch out. (g) In addition to talking to the cats while my wife is at work or at sleep, I'll probably still be talking to you guys.
For now though, Chef-in-Bill is off to prepare dinner --- roast and mash and Yorkshire pudding and sautéd Brussels sprouts. Oh yeah, with sautéd scallops as an appetizer. Indeed I am a man of many skills.
(And the menu is not only true, but I hope it got mouths drooling here.) LOL

VM Replies: The menu does sound enchanting. Mind you, I'm about to eat a grilled cheese sandwich.
I can't believe you put the accent aigu atop the "sauted." Diacritical marks on a comment? That *is* anal.
P.S. Grant Fuhr.

[red5]

Wow, Sensi-Bill, you sound like an ol' time wagon-jumper.

Good to see the magnificent bastards are doing well; haven't been able to post much (new job), but have been trying to follow along. Loved the red-bull induced post (and comments from yesterday's blog).

Oh, and what's the current proposal count for Alecia? I've seen at least one; two if you count sugar-Sensi-Bill.

Anyone know if the Creemore stand is still at the ACC? Didn't see it last time I was down, but I could have gotten the location mixed up. I'm using the season's tix (*cough**cough*Alecia*cough**cough*) on Saturday, and would like a good beer for a change.

PP, keep the faith.

VM Replies: I was wondering where you had gone. Congrats on the new gig.

[Simmer]

Hoof, you're absolutely right, I was just trying to add some clarity to how the all-stars make it to that selection process, because I'm sure we're all still trying to get the hang of this new format.

I wouldn't want Bill to stray too far into the Darkside, someone has to balance the spectrum and bring us back memories from years of pounding the Sens in the playoffs.

[waffles2010]

Big game tonight everyone. Wilson going for win #600. Go Leafs Go.

[Alecia]

Predictions for tonight is everyone napping? As I mentioned before, I say one goal game. 4-3 Leafs.

[Grabbo]

Hello everyone!

Good news, Senators are down 5-0 at the end ofthe second.

[Fritz]

Oh man this waiting for the late games is ridiculous. So let me ask you a question. earlier tonight I had to fix something on the washer. As I was down there i looked up and noticed a TML sticker on the hot water tank. As I shined the flashlight on it, I realized that's been there for a long time. Then I thought about all the other odd places I have Leaf stickers.. my toolbox, inside the electrical panel, on my overhead at work, on a plastic Cup from a beer case that didn't come with the proper logo... ahhh, Good times. sink the sharks.. drop the puck - let's go!!

[Vinay Menon]

Here we go. In Reimer We Trust. If the Leafs can pull off a win tonight, they may decide to keep the kid around longer than initially planned. Fingers crossed.

[Tom]

are we ready to watch?! goooo leafs

VM Replies: Are you in the broadcast booth tonight? Awesome.

[Tom]

Wow. Have we really lost at San Jose for the past 13 years??

[Tom]

@VM as much as I can be. Though likely only for the first period. D:

[Tom]

solid few minutes of leafs battering san jose goalie. :D

[Tom]

and even more leaf defence :D

[Alecia]

Anyone else thing the camera angle of this game is horrendous?

Away games sure feel like away games. Come home already!

[Tom]

ah raspberries. SJ scores D:

VM Replies: 'Tis okay. Atlanta and LA also scored first in last two games. So this is... good!

[waffles2010]

Paul Hendrick reporting from the zamboni entrance. Heres to a Scott Oake moment, minus the Kevin Weekes save.

No chance for Reimer on that first goal, beauty set up by Big Joe.

[Alecia]

Pfffft... the Leafs didn't score first in their last two games. Apparently that elusive first goal means nothing to the leafs.

[Pyramid Power (via email to VM)]

Liked our energy level thru the first ten minutes. Marleau scores from a gorgeous feed by Thornton. Who let Thornton go like that is my question?

[Vinay Menon]

Is it my sleep-deprived imagination or did this period fly by?

[waffles2010]

Does anyone else see a big improvement in Bozak's skating and energy level in the last 10 games?. I think he is looking better game by game.

VM Replies: He's not getting knocked off the puck as much, that's for sure.

[Pyramid Power (via email to VM)]

This game starting a bit like last night's with L.A. taking it to us in the first and scoring. I look for much better results very shortly. Again, I like our energy.

GO LEAFS GO!

[gettingcozywithsarkozy]

It did fly by. Being south of the border I'm watching the only feed available (sharks feed) and the announcer keeps refering to Grabovski as "Gunnarsson". Geesh, their numbers don't even look alike, nor they play the same position. The only similarity is that their name starts with "G". Might as well be calling him Gilmour... I kid, I kid, don't go calling for my head!

VM Replies: That's hilarious.

[Alecia]

Opponent skating first goal? Check.

We are soooooooooo winning this game. That's our MO!

[waffles2010]

Yeah Vinay, it did fly by. We need to find a way to make the intermission fly by as well. Bill Watters is even harder to listen to when I'm tired and a little grumpy. Does anyone know what is up with his eyes?.

VM Replies: I'm not suggesting he reads our comments here. But he did seem a little chastened before the game when talking about Grabbo.

[Alecia]

Skating?!?... Vinay, have mercy and edit spelling please!

Tried form laet gaem strasts!

VM Replies: You just made me spit out my Red Bull. I don't edit comments, sister. You're on your own!

[waffles2010]

Alecia, if Vinay edited comments. He would spend his entire day correcting Nik Culomans' rants. Vinay would surely loose his mind.

VM Replies: *Begins slow applause*

[waffles2010]

Vinay, with respect to Bill Watters being more positive, especially about Grabbo, perhaps someone we know, no hints this time, works for Sportsnet and has laid down the law. Positive comments or else!!!!!!.

[waffles2010]

Looks like we will all get our wish. Colton Orr gets to sit out some games, what a brutal knee on knee hit. Suspension for that for sure.

VM Replies: I don't know. Will need to see that again. It looked accidental to me.

[waffles2010]

Thought Orr stuck his leg out. Couture definitely tried to avoid the hit. Not as bad as I originally thought. Orr just looked too slow to hit him in time. I hope Couture is ok, he was having a nice rookie year.

[moe green]

Two words: Rye mer!

VM Replies: There you are!

[waffles2010]

Vinay, looks like we are the only 2 dedicated enough or silly enough to still be awake. How impressed are you with Schenns' game right now?. He just threw Heatley away from the net like he was a small child.

VM Replies: We're giving it 110 per cent, Dr. Waffles. Schenn is a beast.

[Pyramid Power (via email to VM)]

Tough hockey game. We are putting up a helluva fight and will win this. Feel it Leaf Nation, feel it!

Tough knee on knee hit by Orr on Couture. That is hockey. I don't think Colton meant to harm the kid.


GO LEAFS GO!

[Pyramid Power (via email to VM)]

Jimmy Reimer smooth as silk again tonight. 1-0 Sharks late in the second period. Lots of truculence by the blue and white. FURIOUS!

GO LEAFS GO! Beauchemin to the box for crosschecking. Kill this boys. Sharks in the net and everywhere. Army drilled Thornton into our net. Good. Put a hurtin' on these Sharks and go guys.

[waffles2010]

Hello Moe

[Alecia]

Hmmm this isn't Leafs vs. Sharks, its Reimer vs. Refs.

First period seems to have flown by but this 2nd period feels awfully long. Make it en - oh thank god, there's the horn.

K Leafs, get it together.

[moe green]

Busy tonight. What a performance by Reimer tho. Wow. Later all.

[waffles2010]

Vinay, with Reimer again playing awesome, do the Leafs have any options to keep him with the big club?. Would they think of keeping Jiggy on IR? The Goose can't be sent to the marlies without clearing waivers, right? Hello PP.

[moe green]

The games looks like it's been a grind. How have the Leafs been? Looks like Reimer kept them in it in the second.

[Pyramid Power (via email to VM)]

Tense, tough, taut and truculent game. Sharks up 1-0 at the end of two. Leafs need to really show what they are made of in the third. I think they will.

No goals Jimmy. Please.

GO LEAFS GO!

[Account Deleted]

I love this kid! Go J.R. Good to hear from our chinese connection.

[Alecia]

I think Leafs will come out hungry for some revenge in the 3rd. Something is up with these west coast Referee's. Why did Beachemin get that penalty?

[waffles2010]

He has played great Moe. Looks every bit like the real deal. The Leafs have had their chances at the other end, Niemmi has made some big saves too. Not as much sustained pressure in the SJ zone, more chances for the Leafs on the rush, generally decent shots from the wings that he has made saves on.

[moe green]

Go-Go, Wordsworth, Nuke. Match the Leaf players to their proposed nicknames? Any guesses?

[moe green]

Phaneuf. Something tells me he's going to have a big impact on the result tonight.

[moe green]

What's with Kaberle. Is he afraid to get a boo-boo?

[waffles2010]

1. Grabovski
2. Armstrong
3. Phaneuf

[waffles2010]

KESSSSSSSSSEEEEEEEELLLLLLLLLLL THE LEAFS TIE THE GAME

[moe green]

What a phil-beauty!

[Vinay Menon]

Kessel, you magnificent bastard!

[Alecia]

WHAT a move by Kessel!

That's it. The trade was worth it. Exhibit F****g A.

Vinay, Can I swear? please. It's after midnight and Kessel just scored on an amazing play.

VM Replies: Sure! We should all be swearing tonight. Shouts of sweet, sweet profanity.

[moe green]

Man that Colby Armstrong is innocent huh. I love that guy cuz everyone hates him. He's like Tucker with a brain.

[waffles2010]

I don't have any idea what happened to our Maple Leafs at the ringing in of the New Year. I for one am very happy with the impostors who have decided that they could do a better job. Where the F**K has this team been for the last 32 games?

[moe green]

Oh wow.

[waffles2010]

The Leafs have the lead!!!!!! Clarkie you magnificent Leaf bastard, on the backhand.

[moe green]

Another night off by the refs!

VM Replies: Truly unbelievable.