Game 61: Speeding toward the light

I don't know where to begin. I am at a loss for words.

It's not just tonight's heart-pounding triumph in Montreal. It's not just the shrinking four-point gap that now separates this surging Leafs team from the word we dare not speak but can't stop thinking about. It's not even the climb back to .500 or the clutch performances we witnessed from so many in so many situations in a game they all refused to lose.

No, what's giving me pause – and it's an electrifying pause, to be sure – is a seismic perception that rumbled along the boards and floated above the neutral zone, that spilled along the bench and catapulted from the corners, that coated the defensive zone and powered the attack, wave after wave, line after line.

They believe in themselves. It's not just us anymore. They, too, believe.

And so on the night of February 24, inside a supercharged Bell Centre, this belief in what seemed improbable only yesterday, this faith in what lies ahead, ignited like a powder keg, flames licking at the black sky.

Make no mistake: The fire was everywhere.

It crackled in the first, as AC/DC’s "T.N.T." thundered to life and Mike Komisarek scrummed with Tomas Plekanec. It roared inside Ron Wilson's belly as his catatonic demeanor melted and he hollered at the officials with newfound urgency.

It raged inside Phil Kessel's narrow eyes as he battled for the puck like he's never battled before, working the boards, setting up behind the net, using his howitzer of a shot to score twice while assisting on two more.

You could even see the fire in Brett Lebda's outstretched arms as he pumped his fists after scoring his first goal since the discovery of insulin.

You could see it on Tyler Bozak's face when he converted those two Gretzky-like passes from Kessel or when he lined up for draws or when he made a lunging shorthanded play in the third that robbed the Canadiens of a sure goal.

And you could see the fire spread late in the game when the foot soldiers – Colby Armstrong, Fredrik Sjostrom, Joey Crabb – ragged the puck deep in the offensive zone with such red-hot tenacity, the Canadiens never had a chance to pull Carey Price for an extra attacker.

The magnificent bastards didn't just squeak out a 5-4 win, as a glance at the box score might wrongly suggest. They waged war for every inch of ice. They scored three goals on their first nine shots, chasing starter Alex Auld. They wove pretty offensive plays and defensive gems into a tapestry of relentless work, which was then wrapped tightly around Montreal's neck like a ligature.

Unlike earlier this season, when an opposition blitz caused them to collapse like a garden umbrella under a falling anvil, the Leafs never lost their focus or their composure or their belief in themselves.

Not when Montreal scored first. Not when Montreal scored two goals in 20 seconds early in the second. And not when Montreal sliced the score to 5-4 with 2:37 left in the third.

You know, as I sit here alone in my office as 2 a.m. approaches, I suddenly understand this feeling of speechlessness. I get it, which is to say, they get it. The race is on, there can be no doubt. 

But how the season now ends is the least of it. The important thing is they believe.

A toddler's laugh, a first kiss, warm sand on a beach at night – some things in life should not be scrutinized with the mind. Some things in life should just be enjoyed with the heart. Some things should be experienced rather than analyzed, accepted in all ephemeral beauty rather than questioned.

This game was one of those things. The darkness is fading because we are speeding toward the light.

There is nothing more to say.

BOTTOM PHOTO: CHRISTINNE MUSCHI/REUTERS

Comments

[KWood19]

couldn't agree more. they finally look like a team that seriously believes they can make they playoffs. they aren't just saying that they believe they can, they are finally playing like they believe they can. my only question... when the heck will joffrey lupul, if ever, start producing? just imagine how much more successful that line would be (lupul bozak kessel) if Lupul started potting a few snipes himself?

VM Replies: Why are you awake at this ungodly hour? Lupul will get on track. He's getting his chances. Besides, right now Kessel is producing enough for six linemates.

[Ashley]

I was pretty happy that the Canadiens fans decided to boo Komisarek and Phaneuf in the 1st. I think it fired up the boys, it sure got me feeling vengeful. Tonight's game was just so awesome. :)

VM Replies: Is everybody still awake? That was a very special game, for so many reasons.

[KWood19]

I guess kessel does make up for it.
and the sleep cycle of a university student keeps me awake! only good things happen after 2 am!

[Stanislav the Sad Bureaucrat]

Yaaaaaaaaaaaaawn...I was temporarily roused by this excellent piece of writing, which provided, in eloquent detail, an account of why certain statistical analyses - once ridiculed in these quarters - are suddenly worth believing in.

For now, it's time to retreat into my cave and resume hibernation. Did you know that the heart rate of black bears slows to as few as 8 beats per minute during hibernation? What a tremendous animal. I suspect that, even in slumber, my heart rate will maintain a 240 beat-per-minute pace from here on.

[Matt]

The way that Kessel hustled, battled, dug out pucks, and passed serves as a microcosm for everything the Leafs are doing right... 4 points from "P"aradise!!!

[the evness]

Really great game by the entire team. It was weird, for the first time in a long time, I still had confidence after squandering a 2 goal lead and then again after giving up a goal late. I don't know how anyone else felt, but that sense of nervousness and impending doom never did manifest itself tonight.

First time posting, but I have been following this blog for most of the season and am a big fan. I've noticed the occasional playlists, and as a dj in Whistler, BC, I offer this up to you. (sorry if it has already been posted, but it deserves to be posted again) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GsuVrUicqlU

Only thing I did not enjoy about this game is the bar I was watching it at turned all but one of the tv's along with the sound to the Canucks pregame with about 2 minutes left to play.

[Princess Mononoke]

The smurfs were careless, probably had too much all-you-can-eat sushi in Vancouver. Carey just must never, ever relinquish the net.

Well, at least my hubby was pleased, but unlike you guys, he's not allowing himself to be beckoned by the light, and won't even fathom the P-thing. He's had too many of these early spring crazy rescue operations that get going too late. His battered heart has been seduced--and then crushed--too often by this kind of March madness. His joy is still contained.

(The Canadiens scored two girls? Was this on Crescent Street?)

[Lewis McClain]

Don't you just love it....Yes...there really is a Santa Claus..I feel like Jimmy Stewart (for you older folks out there) in Frank Capra's "Its a wonderful life"

[the evness]

Really great game by the entire team. It was weird, for the first time in a long time, I still had confidence after squandering a 2 goal lead and then again after giving up a goal late. I don't know how anyone else felt, but that sense of nervousness and impending doom never did manifest itself tonight.

First time posting, but I have been following this blog for most of the season and am a big fan. I've noticed the occasional playlists, and as a dj in Whistler, BC, I offer this up to you. (sorry if it has already been posted, but it deserves to be posted again) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GsuVrUicqlU

Only thing I did not enjoy about this game is the bar I was watching it at turned all but one of the tv's along with the sound to the Canucks pregame with about 2 minutes left to play.

[palbo]

Phil Kessel showed me something. He showed me that he was willing to fight for pucks. He also went to the front of the net: his second goal was scored from the blue paint for cryin' out loud. He PASSED the puck and goals ensued. I have not been a huge Kessel fan, but he keeps playing like he did last night and that will change Make me a believer Phil.

[hoofheartz]

God it's hard to remain cautiously optimistic when euphoria is leaking from my pores. There really is no middle ground when the magnificent bastards are playing with heart and desire, the only thing we have asked of them all season.

[oakville_girl]

My first task this morning is to really watch the game that I recorded last night. I was at a colleagues house last night (who had the game on, but on mute!!!), so I only really saw the goal celebrations and the final score. I can't wait to watch the game completely.

You're right though Vinay, it is as if they truly believe.

And belief in yourself is an amazing thing....

Can't wait for the ride ahead!

[The 5th Line Centre]

Exactly what is needed now, streaks continue, major slumps busted, from personal droughts to team wide PP struggles.
On a night where Reimer may not have been unbeatable, the rest of the team responded with the artillery. Nice work boys.

[A True Leafs Fan]

That was a great game of hockey. Kessel is finally being Kessel. Bozak snapped his pointless streak. I was a little worried when they scored with 3 minutes left but our magnificent leaf bastards did something I haven't seen them do in a long time, and that was an all out assault to give Montreal no chance to even get price out of the net.
Good job you magnificent leaf bastards, 1 down 21 to go. this the first time I cried myself to sleep with tears of joy rather than just tears. No lemon squares for me today.

[Chuck Diesel]

Montreal scored 2 girls in 20 seconds? Haha that's awesome. I didn't know Wilt Chamberlain played for Montreal.

[Peter]

those magnificent Leafs basterds! :-) that was one sweet victory on enemy territory.

[TimB]

As I'm about to head out the door,I don't know,but I could swear my Leafs jacket is glowing a bit.Oh,there's something going on alright.

[pinot grigio]

You can beat any team at home or away but unless you beat the Habs in their own barn you are not yet a true winner. Now Reimer has proven to be just that; he's solid as a house and he's for real. I will think of him as Jimmy "Stonewall" Reimer. Not cute, not clever, but utterly descriptive.

[Peter]

pinot grigio, that's a very good nick for him! i like it a lot! he played like an MVP last night.

[Chad]

i'll be the first to remove the foot that i inserted in my mouth yesterday when i commented that the Leafs PP would bite the big one. i'm eating crow as i type this. what was it? 3 for 6 last night? and even Lebda scored?!?!?! i never thought i'd live to see the day. holy schnykies!!
and now there is a new stat the media can advertise: the Leafs are undefeated when Brett Lebda scores!

[gettingcozywithsarkozy]

So, I think the word (or better yet, the phrase) of the day should be: "guarded optimism" It's what we must maintain over the last 21 games. I must admitt, last night did feel pretty good, but we must keep it in perspective and not look past the next game. On Reimer's play last night, I don't believe he could be blamed for any of the first 3 goals (they were all long shots that were either screened or deflected, or for Cammy's goal, point blank, wide open).

[Simon]

It appears that these MLB (magnificent Leaf bastards) have woken up, with a vengeance. They had passion, and a sense of team. It really looks as though they jelled. And while Grabbo is slumping a bit in his forechecking--while still being one of our best backcheckers--Kessel has woken up and is showing how talented he truly can be.

Plus, he's going for a nice scruffiness. My bet is it will be a Mike Brown stache!

[Nik Culoman]

Kessel is a bum, trade him...Why did we go and get than Phanuef guy this team isn't playing any better with him....Fire the Coach and GM because they are Americans and they know nothing about hockey.....Just some comments to name a few that were posted throughout this season....

Yes, I will admit, I didn't think they had it to make the playoffs this season. They seem to overcome even the largest of tests and succeed. But I think that only furthers my point from the start of year and even during the slump...Let the kids play, have patience and there will be good times to come.

It is easy I know for most of you to join the group think group, I took my shots for defending this team, the GM especially and for asking for patience...No doom and gloom since Kaberle left either...Interesting, someone who you all said was the key to this team.....We should have thrown away that key a long time ago.

Now, I will enjoy the ride....No more pot shots...But I feel it is fitting to take one more shot because I stood with a few who said patience....Who never back down or away from this team....

Loving every win that much more..Because I accepted every loss...But I never lost hope....This is why MLSE signed BB to come in, and not any of you....

[We BeLeaf]

Isn't nice to go to bed (if at all), then wake up knowing you just witnessed another victory against the godless Habs?

Haters, cynics, and atheists are hereby forewarned...we are Leafs Nation and We BeLeaf!!!!

[Mambosun]

Bozak's game was even more impressive considering that it looked like he was playing whilst suffering from full-on pneumonia. See him coughing and sniffling on the bench after every shift? The guy's obviously sick and he just played out of his mind last night.

[LT73]

Pure Poetry Vinay.

[Al]

what a performance by Kessel... when he gets on a roll, man, is he good!!

wow 4 pts, and the other teams seem to be fading while the leafs are surging... can it be? Will the word we dare not speak be spoken once again in Toronto?

[Jon]

Vinay, u magnificent blog writing bastard !
I really believe Optimus Reim has provide a backbone for the team. I completely agree...they believe, we believe, the Leafs are going to make the ... nope, i wont say it out of respect to Vinay !

[Simon]

@Nik. Please. Calm. Down. Its a game. While the players are playing for money and fame, I am watching for pure entertainment. I am trying to have fun. If watching the Leafs on their rollercoaster wasn't some sort of perverse fun to me, I would stop being a fan. So take your fire and brimstone speeches and hyperboles and sarcasm somewhere else. Please. Just enjoy the ride with your brothers and sisters of Leafs Nation.

[Lil]

I'm new to reading Leafs fan, but I always enjoy it. The Leafs are becoming fun to watch again! Whether they reach the 'name we dare not use' this seaosn or not, if they keep playing for themselves and like they enjoy the game instead of playing for their paycheques, I think they'll be better still next year.

Though, it would be nice to meet up with Kaberle and his new friends in mid to late April, I miss him. ;)

[Ken Baumgartner]

Woe, woe woe woe there Nik, they haven't made anything yet. What they have done is put themselves in the race.
What I like about what is going is that Brian Burke is making them accountable. When he started to trade the underperformers he woke them up. I think the key trade was Chris Versteeg because he was supposed to be part of the future. Once everyone saw that they realized that the GM walks the walk and is not afraid to move anyone. It started with Beaucheman but really it was Versteeg that made the difference. Kaberle was always in the cards to move and everyone knew it, even if I was ok that he stayed, I knew it wasn't in the cards and I am just Ken Baumgartner the fan.

As far as I am concerned the ony real good all that losing did was make Burke realize this team needed real change and he took appropriate action. That win last night and last week against the 2 B's were the real charactor builders on this team. The next test is Pittsburgh and it is a big one even without the big guns. Even gutting out that crappy win against the Islanders was a charactor builder because they dug deep to ensure the victory.

Anyway you look at they lost a lot early and now they are winning a lot and have a chance to accelerate the character building by meeting expectations by getting to the post season. Any playoff experience it good for a young team.

[Alecia]

I wonder how Geoff's guest blog is coming along.

[Ken Baumgartner]

Vinay, I was the one who said to stop talking about the P-word until we have at least passed a couple of teams and that when they were behind Ottawa. You agreed. Now we have passed three teams and everyone is bursting at the seems like a child with his finger plugging the hole in the dyke with couple of new leaks today and yesterday.

Today is the first time since November, when I was dreaming of a white Christmas with the leafs still in the race, that I honestly believe that they are now in the race. My question is, is it time we allow ourselves to be open to it and speak the word?

[Carol905]

Oh, that's one game that I wish I had made the trip down 401 to see. I've watched games from the rafters of the Bell Centre and been abused by insane Habs fans, and I've watched games on the TV in the Peele Pub down the street and been heckled by Habs fans. It would have been so worth it to see them "fermer leur bouche"(?)... GO LEAFS!!!

[ValleyRed]

I don't know about everyone else, but here in Atlantic Canada we had to watch the TSN-M feed for the game, and listen to Dave Randorf and Mike Johnson lisp their way through the game. They weren't bad, really, but they were pretty blatant Montreal homers. Which surprised me a bit in Johnson's case, I figured him being a former Leaf he'd have some interest in seeing them do well.

One thing that did bug me was Randorf's constantly referring to Grabovski as a former Montreal draft pick. I bet if you check the records, he's still listed as a Montreal draft pick, that hasn't changed. He's either a Montreal draft pick, or a former Habs player, but not a former draft pick.

In any case, I hope this game finally puts to bed all those complaints about Kessel. He showed plenty of emotion after his goals, so I don't think he's itching to leave. And he showed plenty of hustle and guts, I think he's starting to understand what it take to win in this league, much like the whole team. I thought he was a pretty good passer last year, but this year tried to force passes too much, and they usually got picked off. Now he's creating space with his speed, and the space is opening up for clear passes.

Still, great game by the Leafs, I admit I was worried when it went to 5-4, but they played like champs the last 3 minutes, it was a joy to watch.

[Geoff Read]

The Leafs were full measure for the win. Kessel, in particular, looked great. Reimer looked human... but did what he had to do. The Habs were sloppy in their own end as they have often been for the past month - perhaps that's not surprising given their injury woes and the number of rookies in their lineup. That was particularly a factor on the Lebda goal. Last night's Phaneuf and Komisarek shenanigans reinforced for me that Montreal needs to pick up someone like Chris Neil to keep teams from roughing up their top players.

Enjoy it Leafs fans.

[Geoff Read]

BTW, regardless of which team you cheer for, wasn't that some of the worst officiating you've ever seen?

[Ken Baumgartner]

So looking ahead, if the stars align the Leafs can pass Buffalo and catch Carolina by Sunday. That is if the stars align. At the beginning of the year I took Thomas Vanek and Ryan Miller in my hockey pool, and I have to say, I don't want to win the hockey pool. I did take Kessel though, so if I am to win I wish it comes from his late season surge conituing for at least 21 more games..

[Ken Baumgartner]

Horrible Geoff, just horrible.

[Michael C. Nemirsky]

Awesome column, as usual, VM. It sure is great to be involved in a "P" drive. It seems so,so long ago. What a game by Kessel, that's the guy BB envisioned when he made the deal. Could not be happier for my pal, Bozak. Finally, he was rewarded with some points after playing so well for so long without being recognized for the effort he contributes defensively and crucial face-offs. His play on Kostitsen (spelling), was as important as his game winning goal. Another thing that was quite enjoyable, no scab fans singing and also Komisarek's gesture of crying to the Montreal bench. Priceless! Speaking of Price, was great to get a couple past him, it's been a while. I think a new rule should be instituted, when the glorious leaf bastards score like they did, the opposition should not be allowed to swap goalies. This rule should only apply to the leafs. We could have gotten 10 on Auld. This is a fun ride the leafs are taking us on, Keep it up boys, am proud of your intensity and drive. Git er done!

[We BeLeaf]

For all the posts I have read at other sites (and now here as well) regarding a Habs loss, the fans always are quick to blame it on the referees. Face it, don't use poor officiating as an excuse for your team losing!

[TPiddy]

Phil is a changed man after finally scoring against Boston last week... 6 goals, 4 assists in 5 games.... 3 of his goals were game tying goals... 2 were the first goal of the game, 1 was a game winner, and 4 were on the power play. He also assisted on the game winner last night. Not only is Kessel scoring, but he's scoring when it matters and he's playing solid defensively as well. He shuts up more and more haters with every shift.

[Lisa]

Have anyone noticed Mr. Wilson started praising his "Troops" recently ? If I were one of them, I certainly would keep on "Fighting" for him and for the entire Leafs Nation !

[Simon]

Its funny how the Leafs are starting to play like they did during the first four games of the season--with intensity and hard work--and all that's different from our mid-season slumps and now is we replaced Beauchie, Steeg, and Kaberle with Aulie, Lupul, Lebda, and a couple Marlie players. Not really any big changes on paper, but a huge difference on the ice!

[moe green]

You said it all Vinay. I can't remember the last time any team prevented another team from pulling their goalie. The score, as you said, does not tell the tale of that game.

[moe green]

You may not be allowed to blame officiating for wins and losses but my god the officiating is terrible in so many games. Too many times bad calls determine the outcome of games. That has to change.

[moe green]

@Geoff: You have a right to be upset at the officiating. So do the Leafs and the Canadians. Despicable.

[moe green]

Let's not forget that these bastards were discombobulated the last two games and were lucky they didn't lose them. This game was entirely different. They are adjusting to the Kaberle and Versteeg and Beauchemin losses I guess. I hope. I'll tell you what, since th "event" Phil has transformed into a hockey player as well as a sniper.

[TPiddy]

The officiating was bad on both sides... 8 seconds in an Komi gets a roughing call, but the very next shift the Habs do the same thing and get away with it? The bad calls went both ways though. Gionta's wasn't a hook... neither was Aulie's....

The only calls that were no brainers were Boyce's high stick and Wisniewski's interference call.

[moe green]

Wilson has pointed this out on more than one occasion this season: Missing a call is bad, but phantom calls are worse. Too many times officials call penalties that don't exist. Why do they err on the side of calling the penalty so many times? What's worse; executing an innocent man or setting a guilty man free? We know where the NHL and the American justice system stands on this question. I and most hockey fans disagree.

[hoofheartz]

ValleyRed, correct me if I'm wrong but you must have satellite service. Rogers, in their infinite capacity to gouge the crap out of everyone does not provide TSN (Montreal viewing area) to us Maritimers. So despite the fact I pay the bastards an extra 30 bucks a month plus tax for their stinking Sports Extra Pack, I still had to watch the game on RDS.

[Robert]

The light at the end of the tunnel. Yes, now we have to get through before the train arrives. On the other side, coming out of the darkness, Disneyland, Wizard of Oz, Camelot, all rolled into one. We can see in the distant hills the shining symbol of our journey. It looks like a cup, but, it could be a mirage. We shall have to wait and see.
Hockey is a game of pressure. Last night our forwards out skated the Montreal forwards. We pressed them in their own end. We back checked. We witnessed some of the chemistry of leaving the lines together. Players were looking for each other, the passes tape to tape. Best team game we played in some time.
Now for the caution. Phaneuf has to clean up his act. Picking on Cammaleri won't do it. He gets caught behind his own net trying to hit someone, and Canadiens are left uncovered out front.
I am happy that Schenn has more hits than any D in the league. But last night he wound up doing a face plant because he missed. Someone needs to tell him to take the guy out, but, only enough to ensure you wind up with the puck.
Many of his mistimed hits left his defensive partner out to dry. Plan the hit and get the puck Luke. Its the puck we need to start out the other way.
Colby Armstrong coming from a third liner, is playing his heart out. Tremendous upside.
A good team game. I suspect, more to come.

[Michael C. Nemirsky]

Agreed, the refereeing was brutal for both teams. Many upper echelon executives state that the inconsistency of the officials is the major reason the NHL can not land a lucrative TV contact. Too confusing for the average fan.

[Mambosun]

@ Geoff Read on the refs: You have got that right and it wasn't just last night. I was down at the Islander game earlier this week and it was hands-down the worst officiated game I've seen in years. It's becoming a league-wide problem.

You can chalk up the reffing to the diluted talent pool caused by the two-ref system and a bunch of old-guard vets retiring in recent years. You never used to see young, green refs paired with other newbies--now it happens all the time. What kills me is the linesmen. I don't know whether they've been told to let it go to boost league offence or what, but they're missing close offsides all over the place and they blew a number of icings/wave-offs last night. NHL linesmen used to be the most on-the-ball officials there were in any major pro sport.

[Robert]

Hoofheartz the game was on TSN M 2 whatever the hell that is - I suspect Rogers had the Leaf game and TSN had Montreal scheduled. But you are right in your assessment, Rogers is planning to move everything over to Sportsnet One which will be an additional charge to the regular Sportsnet channels. As you may be aware, with the Jays, the stadium (read Argos) and now the new Sportsnet crews, Rogers are trying to monopolize all major sporting events out of Toronto. Including HNIC. If they get their way, I pity all of us who enjoy watching on television. The CRTC doesn't seem to have the intestinal fortitude to take on the big boys when it comes to the best interests of the consumer.
One last thought on the game: some of us have said all along that between the Marlies and the Leafs we have the nucleus of a damn fine team. More games like last night should prove it to even the most jaded disbeliever.

[Geoff Read]

Yes, that was my point - the refereeing was bad and it cut both ways. The Habs lost because of poor play in their own end and Leaf opportunism not the refereeing - the referees just managed nearly to ruin what was a pretty entertaining game, or what was a pretty entertaining game when they weren't blowing the play dead to make some phantom penalty call.

[loyal he remains]

And then I saw his face,
now I'm a believer,
not a trace of doubt in my mind
I believe, I believe, I believe, I believe, I believe
(slightly edited, from The Monkees, via Smash Mouth)

I think that Optimus Reim is the reason (Reimer Reason). The team actually has solid goaltending, so the others don't have to spend all their time and effort compensating for failures in net.

[moe green]

@Michael: I am not surprised. So often the officiating could best be described as arbitrary. Am I don't buy that "it all evens out" nonsense. SOmetimes it does, and sometimes it doesn't. They have to find a way to be better.

[Alecia]

Glorious morning in Leafs Nation today. Feels good to be sooo soo close to the P word, huh?

I must admit, having given our low finish last year, I didn’t expect them to come so close this season. All I really wanted was to finish out of the lottery and I would have considered that an improvement….But look at them now...wow. It’s time for us Leaf fan to sit back and enjoy the ride. Bouncing back and coming so close to the unmentionable word we dare not speak has become an incredible reality. Who knows what is going to happen next? So far, the Leafs have gone 8-2-2 since the All-Star break. I’ve already pointed this out to vinay, but fans, do yourselves a favour and go look at the stats of the last 10 games for the teams that we are in competition with for the last 8th spot:

Carolina 3-4-3
Buffalo 5-4-1
Leafs 6-2-2
Atlanta 2-7-1
Florida 3-6-1

Buckle up fans, it’s going to be an interesting last 20 games. And you know what, even if we don’t make that final spot, well then so what? This has been a tremendous run and a sure sign that great things are coming for this Leafs team much sooner than we all realize. I will stand there and applaud this team even in a 9th place finish.

Go you magnificent bastards go.

[Billy]

Vinay - Guess you aren't that excited about the position we are in now. Haven't seen you respond to a comment since last night. You still sleeping? All of us can't sleep! (I didn't get to sleep until 4. Just kept going over the combination's and permutations of wins/losses of the teams we need to catch in my head. That, and my 3 year old wanted juice 3 times in the middle of the night)

VM Replies: I apologize for the radio silence. I'm a judge for the Ontario Newspaper Awards and have been tied up with related matters this morning.
I should be done by noon and will then be free to bask in the glory of last night.

[Deepak]

Giving credit when its due!

Yes, we have had a relatively easy schedule lately, but beating our divisional rivals in their own barn (last 3 of 4 I guess?!) is no fun task!

Nice to see team step up when Reimer was, what I'd say, a bit shaky!

Yes, Reimer has held the fort, but D too has responded well after departure of Beauchemin and Kaberle. Yes, Komisarek and Lebda have lifted their game a bit in the recent period.

So, for all the good time, Wilson deserves part of the credit too. It doesn't seem just right that when team loses, its just Wilson; and when it wins, its just Reimer! (With due respect to Optimus Reim of course)

It's been a while since we've won on Hockey Night In Canada (was it 1st Jan against Sens?) Bring on pens! and GO LEAFS GO!

[Katherine]

It was such a relief to see the whole team playing, not just Reimer. For too many years now, the Leafs have played a mediocre game, always relying on the goalie to save their bacon. So happy to see everyone step up for a change. Trying hard not to get my hopes up, but it just can't be helped!

[We BeLeaf]

During the post game discussions, I heard talk about Burke in discussions with the Avs about getting Liles. Granted he seems like he's a good offensive defenceman, but does he really fit the need of the future plans?

[Ken Baumgartner]

Alecia, don't accept anything less than 8th spot. Anything less is letting them off the hook. While the wins are fun, unexpected and welcome all they have done is put themselves back into the race. It is an accomplishment but still only a minor one. We are all happy now and justifiably so. If however they fall back by the end of the weekend we won't be too happy again.
Remember 8th place is still only mediocre. I will accept that this year but we are not there yet and at risk of putting a downer on things, the tide in the NHL can turn quickly.

Be happy yes, but do not be satisfied. For that is where the dreaded blue and white disease lurks.

GO LEAFS GO, KICK PITTSBURGH'S BUTT.

[Peter]

hoofheartz, at least you have RDS...
here in the Ottawa valley, the game was nowhere to be seen. (Rogers blacked it out on Sportsnet, althoug i pay extra for all the Sportsnet channels).

[moe green]

Agreed Ken. IMO this was the team all season they were just under-performing. They proved it in the first four games. We should be looking back and the pretenders now not fighting tooth and nail for a spot. This team is better than their record this year shows. Bad decisions, bad coaching, bad players, bad goaltending have all left their stain on this season. This is the real Maple Leafs. Now is the time to show some pride and bury the competition. We are due!

[moe green]

An aside. I think Wilson is becoming a more humble, decent coach. I think the survey gave him a kick in the ass. So did some players on the team. Maybe Burke even had a few words with him. At any rate, I think he is different. I like it.

[Gman]

Other than my wife's beautiful legs, there is nothing I like looking at more than the magnificent basterds' forechecking when it works like last nite. I'm not saying the word yet, but I'm holding off on psychologically gearing up for golf season.

[palbo]

@ Ken - I'm not in favour of speaking the p-word yet - it's better left unsaid

[Robert]

Let's get out of the tunnel first. Then not just the p-word, but, deep into the p -words.

[steve]

hmmm, better pump up those tires on the ol' bandwagon as it's getting heavier with the number of peeps jumping aboard again...what happened to all those naysayers who said bb is a bum, wilson is an a-hole and the team is made up of a bunch of stiffs??

i'm excited and enjoying the ride, but if the leafs fail to make the playoffs, i won't be upset at all...this playoff push is a bonus, as i never expected them to make it this year...i think bb has done a great job turning this franchise around and it's actually believable when they say the future looks bright. from a team composed of a bunch of overpaid, over-the-hill has-beens with no farm system, to a group of young, devoloping talents with depth in the system, it really is pretty amazing.

goaltending really is a big key in the success of a team, and when we lost rask and pogge bombed, that position looked really bleak...all of a sudden, it's a position of strength again with reimer, scrivens, rynnas, and even gustavsson.

mb nation, enjoy this ride, but remember that whatever happens, the team is still a work in progress and it'll only keep getting better.

[Phil]

Leafs are making their annual late season charge..as per usual..and will fail to qualify for the post season..as per usual..and fans will continue to drink Kool Aid that management feeds them that they are building a contender..as per usual. Toronto Maple Leaf fans are very much like Chicago Cubs fans...selling out Wrigley Field,buying team paraphenellia,being told by management that they're building a contender..Cubs' fans have been waiting for 103 years for a championship..so my advice to Leaf fans is..be patient..be VERY,VERY patient. After all,it's only been 44 years..........

[waffles2010]

Scary weekend in Leaf nation. Is MacArthur able to come to terms on a contract with Burkie?. What does Burke get back for him if he's traded? Does Burke panic and trade prospects and picks to make the playoffs and end the run of early summers in Leaf nation? Can the team of magnificent Leaf bastards continue the run of victories against a hard working fast skating Penguins team. I hope they don't take them lightly because there is no Malkin or Crosby. The Penguins play hard and are hard to play against. Interesting weekend to say the least. I havent even mentioned the unusual Suday nite game.

[TimB]

Moe.In response to your comment last night it felt great to type Kessel and working the boards in the same line.I've been hard on Phil but never questioned his talent.However,his physical play is a pleasant surprise.Also I'm kinda with you on Wilson.He looks more like a coach behind the bench and I love all the chatter going on at said bench. One,two,Leafs are coming for you...three,four....

[waffles2010]

Thanks for stopping by Phil. Please don't let the door hit you in the ass as you leave, A Leaf Fan blogs.

[TimB]

I think Alecia has the spirit.No matter how this turns out,I believe we are in for some fun times. Five,six loosen up on those sticks...seven,eight....

[Peter]

hey Phil, i guess you have to come by and try to stir the sh1t..as per usual. chanting the same lame comments: selling out the ACC evry night, no cup for 44 years bla bla bla...as per usual. however you forgot to metion the need to plan the parade, buddy.
Btw, if you try to bump on the Leafs, you are at the wrong place.

[Robert]

@ moe. Why should it even out? If one team is taking advantage of the other and breaking the rules, it isn't the officials job to even it out. On the other hand, I do agree, the officiating this season has been terrible. Folks getting high sticked, cut, and nobody sees it? And then, the tiniest of stick near the hand penalties!
Watched some of the games from the deep south, different rules down there.

[ValleyRed]

@ Hoofheartz:

I have Bell/Aliant, but I also have the Centre Ice package, which black out the Leafs game. I was lucky and relieved to find the game on TSN-M, or else someone at Aliant was going to get an earful about it.

Speaking of earful, it was a pleasant change to not have to listen to Joe "Hang on 'til I catch up with play" Bowen. He's a blowhard, I prefer Dennis Bayak from the Fan's radio play by play.

Does anyone have a link to that picture of Komisarek making the crying gesture to the Habs bench? There's a lot of Habs fans at work who need to see it!

Lastly, now that the Leafs seem to be going to the net with a lot more will and grit, do you think Wilson's saying to himself "Finally! It's only take 3 years for them to get it!"

VM Replies: A photo of the Komisarek taunt didn't move in the wire pictures last night. But here's a video link to it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GdqMi_fzUvA

[Sensi-Bill]

Vinay
.
As frequently noted, you set a consistently high standard with this Blog.
.
But today I would suggest that when the team is inspired and comes through with some of its best performances, so do you.
.
Not just well done, but especially well done this time out.

VM Replies: Thank you, William. I appreciate your kind words.

[TimB]

Wait a damn minute! There was Kool-aid?

VM Replies: What a revelation. Imagine how good a glass of that blue stuff would taste with our lemon squares.

[Vinay Menon]

@Bomber: Sorry for the delayed reply. I agree with palbo. It seems like not using the P-word is working so far. I'm irrational and superstitious about these things. But I defer to your final judgment.

[TheGo2Girl]

Another wonderful blog Vinay! It really looked like they wanted it bad yesterday. Being in Montreal for a few days, I had to watch the game in French. I was screaming and yelling at the wrong time according to the crowd but felt so proud of the leafs.

We BeLeafed, now I'm glad they do too.

VM Replies: Thanks, TheGo2Girl. Maybe your misplaced screams added to the good karma.

[gettingcozywithsarkozy]

Vinay,

I think you need to post a disclaimer at the top of every blog reading something like:

"-1967!
-Plan the parade!
-Harold Ballard lives on!
-How's that 'truculence' working for you?!?

...there that should about cover it, so haters, please come up with something else as the aforementioned have been officially dead and buried as slams on the Leafs!"

This way trolls like ol' Phil up above will be forewarned not to come on here with the same tired remarks.

VM Replies: Not a bad idea.

[TimB]

Sensi-Bill,I'm afraid you really need to go through the blog archives.During the Leafs losing streak Vinay and the Leafs were at their gut busting funniest.I was starting to think there was some kind of inverse mathematical connection where the worse the Leafs got,the funnier VM got.

[Peter]

Tonight we have to cheer for Ottawa, Washington and Pittsburg. It's painful, especially Ottawa, but it has to be done for the greater good of our team.

VM Replies: Not to look back when we're all finally looking forward but I'm also cheering for Tampa.

[Alecia]

Wait a min…44 years? 44 year since what? What now? Huh? No way. Surely it must not have been 44 years…wow, thanks Phil, I wasn’t aware it’s been that long. Thanks, thanks a lot. What would us, delusional fans of mediocrity, aka leaf fans, would do without the likes of you? Thank you, no really, thank you.

[43 and Counting]

Would it be wrong to start using a chant of "Thank you Phil" when Kessel plays like he did last night? I think it might even make him laugh about it in Boston, and take the pressure off. And how bad were the refs last night? On Bozak's 1st goal, the ref who was standing right behind the net, just stood there signalling nothing, and in fact, can be seen mouthing the words "was that in"?

[Alecia]

Wait a min, Vinay, does our driver TimB know it's been 44 years!?

VM Replies: Based on the music we're listening to, I think he might.

[Peter]

VM, yes, that's right, we have to cheer for Tampa as well. :-)

[moe green]

@43 and Counting: I recommend "thank you Boston" instead! Expecially when the Bruins come to town. But of course, nothing but heartfelt cheers for Kaberle!

[Alecia]

Atlanta and Florida are playing each other too so don’t forget to also cheer for Florida. With Atlanta below us by one point, we would rather have Florida win this one – and NO 3 point games!

[Boo Who?]

And thanks to that single gesture, I just became a (grudging) Komisarek fan. I feel a little shell-shocked and slightly out of sorts. I even have love for L_bda today! What is going on? MOE is saying nice things about Ron Wilson? Now I *know* things have taken a strange turn.

[Alecia]

@moe, I am going to the Leafs vs Boston game and I’ve said that we should start that cheer but I am afraid that “Thank You Boston” might send across the wrong message to Kaberle.

Nothing would be better than Toronto stealing Boston’s chant and making “Thank you Kessel” our own.

[othermark]

Those Magnificant Leaf Bastards! If they keep this up I will be shaving my back side in preparation for the tattoo I joked about last week. I will gladly follow through with my promise of a tatt emblazened on my right cheek should those Magnificant Leaf Bastards claw their way into the playoffs. Question is what to do? Leafs logo circa '11? Burke's face? A player? Which one? This is going to be tough. Maybe MLSE could hire some cheerleaders for the first round... that and a few beers would provide ample inspiration I'm sure. Go Leafs Go!

VM Replies: Okay, this needs to go to a vote. What should othermark get tattooed on his, ahem, backside?

[Farrukh I]

Phil is getting Philthy. I love it. I'd love to see lupul turn it on too. Some of the defensive errors worried me. But its like the newly reborn Vinay said, this team beleafs in itself. Usually pressure like that and they crumble faster than Charlie Sheen's career. Question are we hurtling towards the light or towards a seemingly real mirage. Going to enjoy either way.

[Farrukh I]

othermark should totally get Mike Brown's mug on there. or riemer. Or Vmans. No matter what anyones picture on his cheek will give us all nightmares

VM Replies: A backside tattoo of a Fu Manchu does not strike me as particularly wise in the long run.

[The J]

For those talking about blackouts, it's actually an NHL rule. They want you to watch your local team, even though your a Leafs fan. I work with Sens fans here in the GTA who complain they can never watch the Sens and can only watch the Leafs. So you can all feel better knowing Sens fans are getting screwed too.

VM Replies: You need to tell us where you work. No reason. But you should totally tell us.

[Ken Baumgartner]

Just saw the Komisarik video. Ok so he only played 10 minutes and change but if he is doing stuff like that to the other guys he is winning me over.

The victories mentioned above would be the begining of the aligning stars..

Wouldn't that be something if they were ahead of Buffalo and tied with Carolina on Sunday night?

You know something, that win was so much fun last night I want to sing some more
OLAAAY OLAY OLAY OLAAY
OLAAAAAAAY
OLAAAAAAAAAAY!
AGAIN
OLAAAY OLAY OLAY OLAAY
OLAAAAAAAY
OLAAAAAAAAAAY!

[Alecia]

othermark should definitely get the optimus prime logo tattoo.