Game 80: The End

So that's it. This uneven, teeter-totter of a season has come to an unofficial end.

It happened at precisely 9:26 p.m.

Toronto and Washington were tied 2-2 at the ACC. But the fate of Leafs Nation was settled across the border when Buffalo scored into an empty net, giving them a 4-2 win over Tampa and, more important, giving Leaf fans a sixth consecutive year without postseason action.

To be honest, I'm surprised by how hard it hit me. Even this morning, as I wheeled out the recycling and fed the cats, the feeling of disappointment was wildly out of proportion with reality.

I mean, we knew "mathematical elimination" was all but inevitable. It may have been written in invisible ink but it was in our calendars some time ago. This race was always the longest of long shots. The odds never moved beyond grim. The surge was doomed, likely to run out of space and time.

No matter.

Over the last few weeks, as this young team clawed their way out from the crater they dug during a disastrous first half, it was hard not to admire their own fierce determination, their own faith in the impossible.

At 9:31, as regulation time ended and the cameras showed the bench, I actually winced. The silhouette of those slouched bodies – every face etched with crushed disappointment – showed just how much they believed.

They cared.

The pundits are now free to wag their fingers and conduct armchair postmortems on 2010-2011. The self-appointed experts can make sense of what happened, what should happen and what might possibly happen.

Me, I just want to say thank you to this young team.

Am I delusional? Crazy? A glutton for punishment? Has years of on-ice mediocrity dulled my critical faculties and lowered my expectations to zero? Am I suffering from a godforsaken mix of Stockholm Syndrome and Blind Faith?

Maybe.

All I really know is this: For the first time in a long time, I am bidding farewell to a season with no regrets and no residual anger. History may deem 2010-2011 to be another failure but it sure as hell doesn't feel that way at 8:53 a.m. this morning.

So, thank you.

Having watched every minute of every game this season, I believe my beloved team is finally, at long last, on the right track. The pieces are coming together. The future looks brighter than it has for quite some time.

In my opinion, my proudly biased opinion, this is not The End. It is The Beginning and I can't wait until the fall.

PHOTOS: STEVE RUSSELL/TORONTO STAR

Comments

[Geoff Read]

In keeping with Sarko's comments... Carey Price was sensational last night and the Habs played with that swarming tenacity they showed last year in the playoffs. It did remind me of Halak's run last year. Keep yo' fingers crossed Mo' Green. At the very least, it seems the weird slump they went through there after that 7-0 ass-whupping from Boston seems to be over.

[A True Leafs Fan]

AllNorbertBolly Syndrome

Sypmtoms Include:

- Being Delusional about thinking that Leaf fans will not find them.
- probably supporting teams like the Scabs and Hens ( Not yet Confirmed)
- irrational belef that a hot goalie can't transform a
mediocre team into a playoff contendor
- eating corn flakes every morning that someone obvioulsy has poured a potent yellowish liquid in.
- Being sad and Lonely
- lack of friends
- Is in desperate need of a hug. (or a kick in the pants)
- extremely Delusional thinking people actually give a rats ass about what they have to say

[moe green]

Maybe you could come back with a few fewer posts next season. Something manageable with your other duties at The Star. Maybe just post on game days. Maybe skip one or two when you are out of juice (though I've yet to see you juiceless) or let us pitch in. Whatever you do please don't abandon this blog next season. We need IT back but above all we need YOU back. Even if it becomes a twice a week or weekly post with commenting in between. And remember all of us in here "got your back."

VM Replies: Thanks, dude. I'm certain it will all work out.

[Boo Who?]

I just need to state for the record that there is no way I can bring myself to cheer for the Habs.
And so I must part ways with Geoff and moe.

Geoff - in some alternate Habs-free universe we are perhaps enjoying LOTR and Monty Python marathons together. But if such a place existed, I'd be there already, so I guess we're S.O.L.

moe - I...I can't even look at you right now.
You will find your smoking jacket and all your things in a box on the driveway. But I'm keeping the Leafs flag!

(Go Canucks Go!)

[hoofheartz]

I'd like to pay tribute to all the hobbits and trolls who have been here since the beginning and even the newbies who have crawled out from under their bridges:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqUa_G1h3pw

[gettingcozywithsarkozy]

I echo Boo's sentiments, except for her last comment. Call it a little bit of envy or the "if I can't have it, nobody else should" syndrome, but I can't bring myself to cheer for any other Canadian team. It may be a little selfish, heck, VERY selfish, but in my mind, the Leafs should be the team that brings the cup back to Canada. If they're not gonna do it, I don't want any other team north of the border winning it! So here's my GO PENS GO cheer!

[LaineyTML2012]

Well, it appears I am not alone with respect to:
- enjoying the ride we've had on the terrific roller coaster of the last few months of the season with almost each and every one of you terrific deranged, obsessed, delusional magnificent Leaf loving bastards
- cheering and applauding our Magnificent Leader, Vinay
- being thankful to be a part of the Leafettes for 2010
- getting our last digs on the trolls, even though there are a few days left of this present-day blog
- eagerly anticipating the announcement of the First Official ALF B Toronto Chapter Summer Conference

It's not over until we kick Les Habitant ASSES one last time in 2010. GO LEAFS GO!!

p.s. Vinay, I hope you email everyone on the results from the meeting you have Friday AM. Leafettes are available on a moments notice if you need us, right gals?!

VM Replies: Lainey! I'll provide an update in the comments sometime on Friday. It is so comforting to be on the same side as the Leafettes.

[TimB]

Don't worry everyone.Even if VM leaves us,I intend to start up my A Leafs Flan Blog where I will share various suitable recipes and we will discuss them.

[enJoy hockey]

Vinay, before ALFB started, there were two Star columnists whose names always drew me to their pieces: you and Rosie. That's how I discovered the breath of sports-writing fresh air that is AFLB. I sometimes bypass Rosie now --mainly because it takes so much time to keep up with ALFB. That is my only complaint: you are interfering with my life. I should be out playing hockey and other stuff instead of watching it and reading about it and reading what others write about it. Except you are all worth reading and too much fun. So my exercise program was shot. Good thing there weren't too many lemon squares lately or they'd be calling me Kyle.
For what it's worth, Gustavsson has had a rough go since coming to Toronto what with the medical problems and the sloppiness-in-front-of-him problems. Maybe it would be better for him to get a fresh start elsewhere.

[Peter]

I'd like to join Boo in that there is no way in hell i will cheer for the Habs in the PO.
i will pick some underdogs. :-) maybe Anaheim or Tampa or maybe Philly just for what they have done last year.

[Rooney]

Trolls, you illiterate monkeys, learn to read please, nobody here is accepting failure or losing. They’re talking about the fun that was had on ALF B, offering positive feedback for the aspects of the Leafs game that deserve it and critical feedback for aspects that still need improvement for next season. Read comments from a couple of our leaders (Moe and TimB) and you can see some intelligent criticisms. Now put down your keyboards and step away from the computer and stop proving the theory that if you give a monkey a keyboard they might eventually type out a few coherent, albeit moronic and idiotic, words.

[Rooney]

Hoofheartz, Lunatic Fringe is one my favourite songs of all time! Cheers!

[TimB]

How have we ignored Red Rider? Avenue "A" and Victory Day are two of my all times.

VM Replies: Tom Cochrane is one of the greatest songwriters this country has ever produced. Years ago, I did the occasional appearance on MOJO Radio and "Human Race" was the song that would kick-off those chats:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QDbxKJv-ok
If there's a more wistful and poignant song from that era than Avenue A, I have yet to hear it.

[We BeLeaf]

I thought I'd post this to all Leafs fans here as it seemed fitting.
.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FymMLieKaYw
.
If anyone knows of a more modern version please post it on the blog.
.
Remember the Maple Leafs Forever!

[Nick Verbaeys]

Hallelujah VM.

The Beginning of a new era.

Greetz
Nick from Belgium

VM Replies: Best wishes to you, Nick. Thanks for reading from Belgium this season.

[TimB]

Had just moved out of Edmonton in the 80's or would have seen Tom Cochrane & Red Rider at the Jubilee with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra.Was recorded for the Symphony Sessions album.

[TimB]

Good link,We BeLeaf. Disappointed Eddy Shack wasn't there.Ya know,watching that video,maybe Becky was right today.We are not Die Hard fans,we are Die Never fans.

[hoofheartz]

When I lived in Victoria, my wife and I and my Brother-in-law and his wife and about 400 other people slept outside the Juan de Fuca arena just for the privilege of registering our kids in minor hockey. Halfway through the night I phoned the local radio station and had them play Big League. So I guess it's only fitting.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoDDnOUKDQI

VM Replies: What a great story, hoof.

[KD]

On Gus's heart, I've said it before and I'll say it again. In the end, this is just a game, even if the players make salaries most of us could only dream about earning. The Monster should realize that life is more important, and hang up the skates before this game kills him. I don't think the size of the market is a factor - he'd play just as hard in Phoenix or Nashville, and stress his ticker just as much.

[Al Cleverdon]

I've changed my mind about adding Brad Richards at the deadline.There seems to a chemistry developing finally on this team and part of it , I believe, is the elevation of several Marlies to the NHL roster due to effort at the AHL level.Players will maybe start to believe that they have a chance if they work hard in the AHL.The younger players now in the overall organization of which "some" will undoubtedly make the Leafs one day is in stark contrast to recent aging Leafs teams with few , if any , legitimate young prospects in the minors/junior ranks.I say stay the course, hang on to your draft picks and develop...develop...develop.When this team has developed anough to be close to being a contender , then and only then, do you spend the money to bring in a few high end players via trade and/or free agency to put us over the hump.Blowing the 15 mil in cap space this summer and giving up draft picks will just set us back to where we were."If" the Leafs surprise and look even close to contending earlier then they can make trades at the deadline because you have the money and a stable of young prospects to utilize.Very much enjoyed the second half of this year and I hope management stays the course and doesnt overvalue this team and go all gungho by overpaying over-thirty year old free agents.

[Alecia]

So who are we cheering for in the playoffs? We're allowed to say that word now right?

I say Boston, but only for Kaberle's sake. The guy deserves to hoist the cup already.

[Lewis McClain]

It has been an exciting season. I for one have been looking forward to every game. This team should only get better. But i say the season could not have been any more exciting. Win or not they really gave it all in the end. You cannot ask more than that. I would rather see these guys than Rangers, Capitals, Redwings, Canucks. All boring in my estimation. But i am biased. Go Leafs... Wait till next fall.....Just bet they will not want to see us coming..

[Rooney]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RaSdeM-zK2k

[Rooney]

IMHO, no team in the East deserves anything more than a serious a$$ whooping, they especially have not earned any of our support. I will wait to see how the West pans out before picking a dark horse from that conference to cheer on. I am not interested in cheering for any odds favourites either, what fun would that be?

[moe green]

@Alecia: For me it's all Canadian teams. Even though I live in the US and have a fondness for several US cities I guess I will always be a Canadian at heart. I vote for the Habs in the East and the Nuckleheads in the West. Here's hoping one of those two bring home the cup to Canada where it belongs. Then, beginning next season, our Leafs can make sure it stays in Canada for a while.

[moe green]

Just imagine this Leafs team if we had just a first line centre, nothing more. Maybe Colborne can fill that role? If Reimer is for real and MacKulebovski can have another year approaching the one they had, I say this team is a contender. Why not. I expect great things from Lupul next season. I even see signs that Komisarek is coming around.

[Michael C. Nemirsky]

With total respect to those patriotic Canadians (notice the spelling), no true blue leaf fan should never, ever cheer for the Scabs of Montreal. Just my humble opinion!

[pinot grigio]

It would be nice if Gus got a last game in net but then he should be packaged off in a trade. I feel sorry for him, he lost both his parents, came to Canada and needed three heart operations. After having been a very good goalie in Sweden he then found out he was no great shakes in the NHL, at least not yet. He deserves a new start and I think he'll do well in a less pressure saturated market. Here in the DC area, with the Caps definitely in the mix for the Cup, they have trouble getting a couple of inches press in the Washington Post. The players are popular when they go to certain watering holes but the point is In Toronto they couldn't go to these places without a security detail. Gus will have a much better opportunity to develop in a US market.
I don't think Giguerre needs another game, we know what he looks like and I personally have seen quite enough of him. Let Gus play tomorrow and Reimer on Saturday, I'd say.

[Wandering Penguin]

Thanks for the links, but especially @ We BeLeaf.

I had the enormous privilege of being a member of the 48th Highlanders for a time - about 7 years - and I joined them fresh out of University in 1982 at my friend's behest. I played the clarinet - which put me in the "military band" though not in the military proper - and we practised separately from the pipes at the Moss Park Armory...but we could still hear them. And when we played concerts or events we were a "massed band" about 99% of the time.

I joined in September of '82 and was with them fewer than 3 weeks before I had to play my first big "gig" with them: October 9, 1982 I was on the ice at the Gardens as the Leafs opened the season against the New Jersey Devils. Being a newbie and not a piper (they surrounded the military band) I was stuck in the dead centre of the entire formation, which meant that the Devils skated right up between me and another clarinet player as they came onto the ice. Chico Resch, being the guy he was, ran his stick along the ice on his left side and whacked every one of us in the foot, trying to take out however many bandspeople he could (none, as it turned out, but it was pretty close). We all wore ice "creepers" so we wouldn't slip in our spats and dress shoes and thank goodness we did, although it was always a challenge to keep them from freezing to the ice during the time we were standing still.

But all that aside: the very first moment we marched onto the ice playing "The Maple Leaf Forever" I almost lost it. If you think it's stirring from the seats you really should hear it from within a pipe band. And I was lucky enough to do 7 of them - not quite sticking with it long enough to be at the ACC for the first season there.

"The thistle, shamrock, rose entwined, the Maple Leaf Forever!"

[moe green]

Here's a question: Who, like me, thinks the Leafs are one or two players away from Cup contention next season? Am I alone in this. If not, where are the weaknesses in this team? Besides coaching and besides a top line centre what holes do we need to fill?

[TimB]

Nothing more than a first line centre,Moe? And we are going to what? buy a power play at a garage sale?

[Rooney]

Hey Boo, a buddy just pointed to me (assume it is true) that the Olympics were held in Quebec in 1976 and the Habs won the Cup in '76 and '77. The Olympics were held in Alberta in 1988 and the Oilers won the Cup in '88 and the Flames in '89. Wonder if the trend will continue...

[TimB]

@Rooney. We did pot some sweet goals did we not?

[Wandering Penguin]

The only other Canadian team I would root for in these playoffs is Calgary should they pull off a miracle and make it in. I am pathologically not allowed to root for the Habs and I wouldn't wish for a championship team in Vancouver in ANY sport even if it was in my financial best interests to do so. Just the way I feel about things; not for a second telling moe or boo or anyone else how to root. I just can't do it - like I cannot cheer for the Bruins even for Kaberle's sake. Well, maybe for one round I can.

I am going to back the Pens if Crosby rejoins them. If not, I think I'd like to see the Caps in the finals if only because it would be some new blood and not the same old same old. In the west I'm getting on the Shark train. I have to pull for the one team I think can stand toe-to-toe with the Canucks ... and I couldn't pull for the Wings, so... doesn't leave much. I was really hoping it would be the Kings' season, but with the concussion to Doughty early on and the loss of Kopitar at the end, that ain't gonna happen.

But until Saturday, that's not a choice I have to make.

[Wandering Penguin]

...and when I say "back to the Pens" do not for a second confuse that with some sort of "back-up" bandwagon allegiance in case the Leafs bomb. I am 100% dyed-in-the-wool Blue and White and always will be. I meant that 2 and 3 years ago I was fully behind the Pens in the playoffs because they played wide-open, exciting hockey and it's always better for the game when a team that doesn't play like a wet blanket wins the Cup. Last year, for the same reason, I was pulling for the Hawks from the first puck-drop of the playoffs. It's been nice rooting for the Cup winners for a couple of years, let me tell you, but I look at it as practice for when the Leafs get there before mid-decade and nothing more.

[Robert]

@Alecia: You are true blue! The announcers the other day were saying Tomas has stablilized the Boston defence and permitted them to move their forwards earlier out of their own zone. I too, have always like Tomas' style of play. He uses skill rather than brute force. Something rare today and misunderstood by many. So for that reason, I hope he gets some recognition.
I don't think there is a team in the east right now, that can touch the west. There are several excellent teams in the west, fast and well coached that won't get a sniff at the semi finals.
We should see some good games in the east, but the west is going to be vicious.

[Robert]

@moe: Man you are beautiful. I read all your posts and continually, I am amazed at your passion for this team. I think most of the people on this blog agree with your ability to define what we need to bring us close to a contender. A couple of first line forwards and maybe another take charge defenceman.
I said early this year, between the NHL and AHL teams we have the makings of a dynamite team. I think Burkie has added to that through the season. He has added to his scouting staff and I believe he and Dave Nonnis know who they want to flesh out this fledgling cup contender for 2012 -13. (I know 11-12 we will be close)
Yes, we have to wait another season, so, I can watch, hopefully some good playoff hockey - but it won't be great until it includes the blue and white.

[moe green]

Some of favourite Leafs-defining moments this season: A couple "what it takes to win" moments.

1. Tim Brent
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHn_XET11tk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCaCpLxOfv4

2. The Team
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noGkc1D6h_Q

A couple pretty ones.
3. Kessel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psocFED1hpU

4. Grabovski
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdcshpIKcuU

[moe green]

Right back at you Robert. But a couple of first line forwards? Where will they play? Who will we trade? Is Colborne far away? Kadri? Man I just don't see it. A stud d-man would be nice but how many teams have a Phaneuf, Aulie, Schenn top three? Especially factoring in likely improvement next season. And what about Gunnarson and Komisarek? Do we dump Lupul? I think we are one player and maybe a coach away. Okay, probably a coach away. I like your style Robert!

[moe green]

@Robert:

Kadri, Colborne, Kessel, Lupul, First line center?

Grabovski, MacArthur, Kulemin

Bozak, Armstrong, Boyce or Crabb or Sjostrom or Your pick

Brent, Your pick, Your pick but not Colton Orr.

Phaneuf, Aulie
Schenn, Gunnarson
Komisarek, Lashoff

I just don't see where we fit more than a single forward addition. I mean we could add a couple character players to the bottom six, but the top six? Am I delusional? I mean regarding the hockey thing.

[Green Tank Top]

Canada rejoices as the hated Leafs go down, yet again, a rite of Spring. Sweet fresh air now that the stench of the Leafs has left the hockey season. Birds are chirping, grass is growing, sun is smiling and Leaf fan is grieving. It doesn't get better than this. Tee off!

[Boo Who?]

@ Rooney - I saw that on twitter the other day, one of the TSN guys posted it. Interesting factoid indeed!
If the Canucks don't win the Cup, I will eat my hat. They are the only other team I really truly follow and actually like, so my bandwagoning is not without a grain of true feeling. I may eventually pick some other horses once the playoffs start, but my eyes will be focussed on the West for sure.

And someone needs to get on the horn with the IOC about hosting the Games in Toronto!

[LaineyTML2012]

don't see it here so far, but another link is saying JR is getting the start tonight in NJ. Why not give the kid a rest now that there's nothing on the line... another reason we question Wilson's thinking

[Boo Who?]

If the DVAS is still with me here, one of my missions this summer is to find Kessel's mojo and ensure he doesn't keep misplacing it in future. Because it won't matter who's centering that streaky bastard if he doesn't play up to his potential on a regular basis.

Maybe knit him a nice mojo holder? Or get him one of those elastic stringy things you use to attach a kid's mittens to their clothing?

[Princess Mononoke]

Well folks, you have been a wise and loyal and forebearing bunch of hockey lovers.
VM, you are the great mind, and great pen who brought us all together.
I'm not sure I would have cared much about the Leafs, had it not been for the fact that I live in the GTA now, and I got to read your fantastic blog after every game.
I cannot thank you enough.
I know I never would have attempted blogging about hockey on my own, if you had not inspired me by your (much superior) skills and thoughtful analysis.

My Leafs-loving students ( a few of them) were suitably philosophical today. Most of the young minds I mold have already found their way to the greatness of the bleu-blanc-rounge (hey, report me to the OTC if you must!), so there was much celebratory anticipation in the air as we replayed PK's fantastic one-timer at lunchtime.

If I were a Leafs fan, you know what would really stick in my craw? The night Wilson didn't dress Reimer against Florida. I still don't get that.
Wilson needs to go.
His friendship with BB is obscuring the fact that the team made great strides in spite of him. He is just plain wrong for this young team.
Please, rejoice in the fantastic character and heart that the players have shown, but find some way to express your displeasure with this very mediocre coach.

VM Replies: You have infiltrated the Ontario school system and are indoctrinating our young hearts and minds? This is an outrage!
Thank you, Princess, for your kind words and for your thoughtful comments week after week. Looking forward to meeting you at our summer event.

[Judith Fitzgerald]

As your occasional HABiTant commentarian and NonHabITroll-Op, Oh, Wondrous Leaf Nation incarnate and epitomised in these beautiful, wistful, and hopeful comments, I am near tears reading your thoughts and hearing your pride in a team I, too, believe finally got its groove back (and, I do remember the last time you won The Cup, argh :)).

Congrats and felicitats to each and all of you for this great and good and gorgeous and wonderful and perplexing and enthralling and enchanting experience.

I mostly read from the sidelines through this first year, always impressed with the quality of Mr. Menon's writing and his ability to almost automagically transform every game's analysis into something both personal and universal, timely and timeless, spirited and spirtual (since your team is, as the Caps' man said, THE Vatican of Hockeydom) altogetheratonce and atthesametime with such splash and panache deux, I salute each of you).

You know, of course, it takes two components to make a successful blog from scratch; the attraction of its star and the starring of the attracted. IOW, I have seen the transformation in your truly astonishing young team and I have similarly and equally seen it in the way this blog came together (ooooh, sowwy).

If I were a Leaf fan (and not just channelling my Grandpa who is smiling *out there* somewhere, content he will see another celebration comme the one he saw the year his wife, My Swedish Grandma Edit/h, witnessed because, that was all my Quebecois Robert Norman Grandpa had after she died the same year they found Bill Barilko and I beLeaf your amazing team saved his life for the next 15 years until he joined her *out there* forever), Man, this is where I would be tappy-tipping to beat the bland (laughing all the way to the brink, er, rink :)).

What a magnificent blog, thanks to both parts, posters and commentarians, working in such sparkling and sensationally counter-intuitive consort.

Thank you for allowing me to tell you how great thou art (and, I do mean ART, short for HEART), y'all.

Kudo (as Alanis sings) et merci a vous, each and all of you; and, don't stop BeLeafing :). Adieu.

Erm . . . um . . . ah . . . . . .

GO HABS GO!!1!™

KEEP THE MOMENTUM GOING, LEAFS!!1!™

p.s. Wanna know a secret? When I got to touch The Cup? I didn't look for any of my HABS's names; nope, just Bill Barilko's . . . Go figurate :) . . .

p.p.s. ViM, I agree with you concerning Tom C. Amazing singer-songwriter and performer . . . but, his *best* song, IMNSHO, hands down, heads held high? "Sinking Like A Sunset." I have only ever commented on one tune @ YouBoob, on that exquisite to-the-top-notch tuniversal tier . . . DameLucky's the name. Joy's the game . . . Thank you all for allowing me to share in your magicality (and, I vote for the blog next year plus I think it time ViM inked A Leaf Fan's Guide to the Kardiac Kidz which would most assuredly include so many of the writerly gems each of you has contributed to this rather insane game, too et again aussi, merci)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUXl_MQvKJY

VM Replies: Back-to-back comments from my two favourite Habettes? How strange is that?
Judith, ALF B's first and only poet laureate, I thank you for reading and for jumping into the comments with such lyrical style and panache.
Your familial Leafs/Canadiens split is endlessly fascinating to me. I hope we'll see more of you in the fall.

[Robert]

My point moe is that these centres you have are not first liners. I don't think Kadri in spite of good hands, would be a first line centre. I am really disappointed in Bozak. He can skate, all NCAA players can. That's all they do. But he has an awful time handling the puck. Colborne will come up I expect. You are suggesting that the Leafs will keep all the present players. I don't think so. There are some gems in the group and some grinders. But, if you want to play Detroit, Van, Chicago and some others in a seven game series, these guys won't get it done.
You need a line that the other team has to adjust to defend. Then Grabbo, Mac and Kulemin and the others can take centre stage. We don't have that yet. We need a take charge front line guy that will make everything else start to work.

[Rooney]

Troll Monkey Alert!

@TimB, watching Grabbo or Kessel weave magic with the puck (when they choose to) cannot be described by words, at least not by me. Some sweet goals for sure.

Moe, on forward, just my opinion, I think you keep Lupul and Kessel together but add an experienced first line centre. Keep the Grabbo, Kuli and Mac together. On the remaining six, I think you assume Brent and Armstrong have earned spots but I think the 3rd and 4th lines have be played for and earned in camp. Either by the players you mentioned or other prospects or by trade. I think depending if you have to trade for a first line centre and give something of value, there might be spots on the top two lines that need to be filled.

On defence, I think the Captain and Aulie, Schenn and Gunnarson (unless any are traded) should have the top four locked up. Unless they can unload Komi (highly unlikely), he is your number 5. I would think number 6 and any spot opened up due to a trade in the top 5 have to be earned at camp.

Regardless of the coach, the PP needed only about 13 more goals to be at 20%. I still think a top line offensive centre gets you there. 5 to 19 additional PK kills gets the team to 80-85%. I have to believe, JR playing a full year will get us in that range (if not we have bigger problems).

Long story short, Moe, I agree with you. I do not think it will take a lot to set expectations extremely high, without any excuses in the fall. GO LEAFS GO!!!

[Robert]

@Green tank top, whatever the hell that is - just dropping by? Mommy lets you out for a few hours and you go wild. Probaby time for your bed. Nite.

[Boo Who?]

I want to be like Judith when I grow up. (Minus the Habs fan part, of course.)

:)

[Boo Who?]

Oooh oooh! Colborne might play with the big boys this weekend according to Paul Hendrick. (And Greg McKegg, owner of the Greatest Name Ever, might be heading to the Marlies.)
My tired, dust-filled peepers would love to check out Colborne before the year is done.

I guess no one is bothering to watch the game. I'll just sit here with the crickets and wait for my phone to update me.

VM Replies: I'm here, Ms. Boo. But I suspect we might be the only two.

[Boo Who?]

WIMPS!! QUITTERS!!

So how's it going so far? I'm stuck at my desk with only a duck for company.
And now you. *bats eyelashes*

VM Replies: Kovalchuk just scored on the PP, his 30th of the season. I'm fine, thanks.
How's the duck?

[Nick]

I guess it's really easy to be Debbie Downer when it comes to the Leafs. They have stunk for so long, that optimism is as much a concept as is the theory of relativity. But if you become a squirrel and break the nut into pieces, you'd be completely obtuse not to see the positives. For one, this is a young team that really was cobbled together at the beginning of the year, then changed in January. On that young team, you have a goalie that's been lights out, two 30 goal scorers, a 29 goal scorer, a points leader the team got for 1.1 bucks, a couple of good developing defencemen and a chock full of young players that work hard, and have a load of potential. On top of that, they played arguably the best stretch of hockey in the second half this city has seen since 93. So i'm with Vinay on this one. Even though the result was the same as last year, the process is drastically different and I'm buying into it.

VM Replies: Great analysis, Nick.

[peduval]

Vinny great as always!! Sorry folks, but the hate for Wilson is not the right attitude ,He has only had half this team for two yrs and the other half for 1 yr .These Young men are playing for him.The improvement has been over the top this team is probably the most improved in the league.Burke will have to swing his wand a few more times but he's a Magician. GO LEAFS GO!!!

VM Replies: Great to hear from you, peduval.

[KD]

Can cheer for Boston, unless they play the Habs. Then I'd love to see the Habs put the Bruins out of Max Pac's misery.

[Boo Who?]

My how quaint! Goodie for him. What's that goal worth then? Just over $3 million?
I just said something that rhymes with 'duck'. Luckily my office is almost deserted.
The duck is bone-chillingly evil, as usual.

I feel like I'm totally bugging you. Sorry dude. Have a small hockey addiction I'm still trying to kick. Can I bum a playoff team off you?

VM Replies: Sure. But take it outside and stay clear of the entrance.

[LaineyTML2012]

@ Boo & VM: I'm here, game's on, but it's only for background noise as I've brought work home UGHHHH. I'm keeping tabs on everyone here too.

VM Replies: Lainey! Lots of empty seats. Make yourself comfortable.

[missideb]

I'm here too, Guys

@ Moe

Lupul, Statsny, Kessel
Kulie, Grabo, Mac
Kadri, Bozak, Army
Brown, Brent, Boyce

Phaneuf, Aulie
Schenn, Gunnerson
Komi, TBD at camp

Reimer

I'd like them to go younger than Richards. If not Statsny maybe Weiss?
I think your PP improves if you have that #1 centre.

VM Replies: missideb! Just me and three Leafettes tonight? This is pretty intimidating.

[missideb]

GO LEAFS GO!!!!!

[missideb]

Apparently Allaire said, earlier today, that Reimer to play last two games - as per Henny. I think at this point, if Reimer wants to play, you play him. He deserves to finish off the year.

[Boo Who?]

Leafettes!! My heart is full of Leafette pride.

VM - sorry to bug you again, but uhhhh, it looks like I forgot my first line centre at home.
You don't mind if I...?? Right?? I'll bring it back!
Unless, um, you want me to try and sell it and then we can use it for draft picks? I know this guy...the draft picks he has man, they are out of this WORLD.

[Robert]

Would someone explain to Pierre Mc that it is a stanchion not a turnbuckle. Pete a turnbuckle is used to tighten the ropes in a wrestling ring. A stanchion, you stand between two, is used to hold the glass in place. Pete you break down the game and cant discribe the mechanics of a rink?
By the way, what was wrong with that hit?????

[Pyramid Power]

Nice snipe by Kovalchuk to put the Devils up 1-0 after one.
Very surprised Reimer is in nets. Am perplexed why Gustavsson would not
be starting tonight.
Wonder what the full story is with Jonas?

[missideb]

Hello.......is there anybody out there?

[Pyramid Power]

Going over the comments am very surprised more people are not worried just a little about our goaltending situation next year.

By no means is it solved with Jimmy Reimer in my opinion although I love the guy.

And who is going to back him up if he wins the #1 position in camp next autumn IF Burke and Nonis don't get get a proven goalie?

[maxwelledison]

Evening to you, Sir Vinay! (And ladies as well)

Uh... there's no whining being trapped by three Leafettes. At anytime!
Especially since their fine quality of comments excel!

Life could be a lot worse.
Yikes... what if you were entangled with three torturously dopey Leafs haters?

VM Replies: Top of the evening to you, maxwelledison. Oh, I wasn't whining. I was pinching myself to make sure it wasn't a late-season hallucination.

[missideb]

I would like to see a veteran brought in to back up Reimer, Scrivens and Rynnas to Marlies

[Leaf Fan in Lotusland]

@pyramid: I agree with you, but I think there are enough affordable UFA goalies out there (Roloson or Conklin come to mind first) for Burke to provide a veteran backup to Reimer who can play 20-25 games.

[Leaf Fan in Lotusland]

Greetings, all. Howdy VM. I figured that since my "schedule a meeting" mojo was kaput, I'd join you for some play-by-play. Hope you're all well.

VM Replies: Welcome to the broadcast booth, LFiL.
BTW, I don't think I commended you for scheduling those meetings so strategically. Now that's dedication.

[Pyramid Power]

Jersey announcers funny saying Rosehill is just not the right kind of name for this guy.
They suggest Rockhill. Melikes. I approve. Rockhill it is for this fan of his.

VM Replies: Rockhill is so perfect it's a shame we never thought of it first.

[hoofheartz]

ho hum, 2-0 Jersey. time for a full body waxing.

VM Replies: Uh oh.

[Sue]

I AM HERE! Late as always, but that should not shock you by now. Would not miss the last two games of the season with my buddies (however few there are on here tonight.

@TimB - will be having a garage sale very soon. Perhaps there is a spare PP in my garage somewhere. Will let you know if I find one.

Vm - are there lemon squares on the baked goods table this evening? Just checking. Why not!

VM Replies: No more baked goods, Sue. Trying to get healthy for preseason.

[pinot grigio]

Oops, made a mistake. Didn't realize the game was tonight as I sit here surfing the web. Thank god you'all set me right. Off I go....
(I am disappointed the ladies are all fully dressed tonight though, when I finally have a chance to take a peek)

VM Replies: Good evening, sir.

[Leaf Fan in Lotusland]

Crap. 2-0.

VM - Thanks for the commendation, but I'm secretly releived that it didn't work in the end. Next year I'll just have to schedule my meetings for non-game days.

@Pyramid: Rockhill is hilarious. Sounds like he plays for the Flinstone Flyers.

VM Replies: 3-0 now.

[Pyramid Power]

@missideb and LFiL Agreed in full. Have twisted in the wind about this for awhile, but I think we have to sign a vet.
I loved the idea of bringing Bryzgalov in, but that is apparently not going to happen according to Vinay.
Vokoun? Too expensive? Conklin and Roloson? Sure. Is Roloson a little TOO old, and is he planning on playing again next year? I think he will be 42 by the time next season rolls around.
Going to be a fascinating off-season no doubt as noted by our fearless leader.

Ouch! Jersey just scored again.
Beautiful setup by Kovalchuk for the one time blast by Tennenby.
One thing I would hope all our Leafs do a lot more of next year and practice on this summer and in camp next autumn: work on our one timers especially Philthy and Lupul.

[80s Leafs]

I just flipped on Leafs-Devils in the middle of the 2nd period, watched for about 5 mins while taping my new stick (I have a game tomorrow), and then flipped it off. Gonna make my lunch for tomorrow and then watch the Republic of Doyle finale. Whatever excitement they built the last couple of months is completely gone. See ya next year, boys. Be ready comin outta the gate, too, and not just for the first 4 games this time!

VM Replies: Godspeed with your game, 80s Leafs. Many thanks for contributions this season.

[Leaf Fan in Lotusland]

yowch. 3 zip.
.
If NJ makes it 4-0, they've gotta pull Reimer. He's getting no defensive protection out front. Looks like our boys are already on holidays.

[Pyramid Power]

Very poor coverage on that rip by Tallinder. Looked to be Nasty's man as in Kadri.
Rockhill bags a natural hattie to tie this one up. Come on you magnificent Flintstone Flyer. Just score.

Question for the few here: what is the story with Jonas and Colton? Why is Jonas not playing, and is Colton still out with a concussion that does not allow him to play? Is Orr signed thru next year? I know Jonas is, but not sure about Orr.

VM Replies: They have not given up on Goose. Had this playoff drive not gone until the third last game, he may have seen some action.
As it stands now, he'll be in the mix this fall, as a possible candidate for the backup spot.
Colton Orr has cleared his medical tests. He's been working out like a beast. But this late in the season, there was a feeling no more neurological risk should be incurred.
What else did you ask? Oh, right. Goose is signed until 2012 and Orr is signed until 2013.

[Sue]

@hoof - need any help with the waxing?

@pinot - it is always nekkid cheerleading night warching the Leafs. Just close your eyes and imagine ..... pompoms ..

[Leaf Fan in Lotusland]

It's turning into a shooting gallery. Hope they make it to the end of the period down only 3.
.
Giggy to start the 3rd?

[maxwelledison]

@PP Good One!

Well, I may be somewhat.
King James is a helluva talent. Cool under duress is my tag on him. Great lateral movement. Very hot glove hand.

Towit: I cannot fathom him in second position this Fall. To anyone.

Burke/Wilson must acquire a young talented net-minder-- even if he hasn't shown it, oddly enough. The key forward, he must be tutored by a more-than decent goalie coach. Preferably, the net-candidate emanates from Juniors/AHL, or thereabouts. Perhaps US/Canada colleges. Really, the days of high-mileage goalkeeps is arcane.

As example, Buffalo's Jhonas Enroth is even better than he's shown. Watch his moves. Is he under control, or flip like a sailfish on a wire
.

Bottom line, PP... is the front office.

Life's a chess move.
And it takes brains, research and guts.

[missideb]

I'm really looking forward to seeing what Lupul can do playing a full season healthy, next year. To think that some people thought he was just a salary dump pick up.

[Sue]

What the heck ... just let them put the whole team on the ice if they want to!

[hoofheartz]

I'm all for throwing Wilson in net for the 3rd.

[Leaf Fan in Lotusland]

@Pyramid: Conklin may not be the right fit, and Roloson may be too old (and I don't know whether he's coming back next year or not, but he's played well this season), but that's got to be the $$ range Burke is shopping in. Can't go blowing $5 or $6 mil on a goalie when you've got Reimer, Scrivens, Gustavsson and Rynnas on the way up.

[missideb]

Back to back game, after officially eliminated night before, unfortunately I kind of expected something like this.

I do, however, think they will play a great game for the home crowd on Saturday.

[Pyramid Power]

LFiL Yup. Heads and hearts not in this game at all. Too many men penalty at the end there with eight guys on the ice just embarrassing.

I say leave Reimer in if Giggy is on the bench. I don't want to see Giggy play another minute for us. Collected some serious coin this year, but delivered so little for us.

Maybe I am being too hard on him, but a vet like that with the injury history he had coming to Toronto should have been able to get a better handle on what he was or was not capable of doctors be damned. These guys know their bodies.

Still horrified at that 4-0 Miami loss when he proclaimed himself fit and ready to go as far as I know. Dude had trouble getting up after a shot during that critical game. Clearly very very hurting, and likely in need of hernia surgery imo. But I am no doctor. Who knows? Sorry for rambling.

[Leaf Fan in Lotusland]

@Pyramid: Ramble on, my friend. This ain't twitter.
.
I agree with your assessment of Giggy's performance this year, but I'd also hate to leave Reimer in for a shellacking when he's clearly earned so much more than what he's getting from his teammates tonight.
.
Best to pull him now and let him rest up for what promises to be a barnburner of a curtain call on Saturday (totally agree with @missideb)

VM Replies: Jiggy in for the third.

[hoofheartz]

@ Sue - I will gladly accept any and all help with the waxing. It's especially difficult with those hard to reach spots in the the middle of the back.

[missideb]

@ Pyramid - I agree with you. One of my kids was a goalie, growing up. Any athlete, especially a goalie, knows their body and what they are capable of as far as being healthy. ......and as I type, Giggy in.

[Leaf Fan in Lotusland]

So that's what Reimer looks like in a ballcap.

[Pyramid Power]

Thanks for the update Vinay.

Maxwell Yup. Would not want to be in Burke and Nonis' shoes. Difficult decisions ahead. Do we really need another young goalie in the mix? Have four now vying to do the job next year.

LFiL I would not mind spending 4-5 mill on a proven goalie like Bryz especially since we apparently will have about $15 mill in cap space approx. after we get most of our UFA's and RFA;s signed according to Damien Cox. BUT like you say, we have the four you mentioned.

One of them should be ready, have faith in Jimmy to get it done and one of the others should be able to step up and be a servicable backup. But what if they ALL freak up? Reimer is far from established as a front line goalie in this league as in a bona fide #1. And neither are the other three. Are we prepared to roll the dice that of those four, two will emerge as quality netminders?

Do we want to save our cap money to try to sign a Richards or a Laich and possibly others? I guess obviously this is why the front office gets the big bucks and the big stress eh Maxwell?

Poor Burkie. I don't envy him. First time he has ever really rebuilt a team. I hope for his sake, his mental and physical health's sake, we have a great year next year and easily make the playoffs. He did not look like a well man at the end of the game last night I thought.

[LaineyTML2012]

Ha! Let's see if Jiggy's jennies hold up for this 20 minute curtain call LOL!!!

[Leaf Fan in Lotusland]

Love Mike Brown. Only guy out there in white who's competing tonight.

[missideb]

@ Leaf fan in Lotusland - Shermanator!!!!

[hoofheartz]

Maybe I'm hypercritical of Wilson but I'm tired of that smirk that always seems to be glued to his puss as if he knows something that we don't.

[Leaf Fan in Lotusland]

31 for Kessel! Right on. Great pass by Loopy.

[missideb]

#31 by Philthy from my man, Lupul!!!!

[Pyramid Power]

Giggy's jennies sure took a beating on that net crash Lainey. Looked like such an old man "springing" back up to his feet after that.

Jennies. Hilarious.

Gooooaaaaaaaaaaaaaal. Great one timer by Philthy. Beautiful setup by Lupul. Man, if Philthy had not gone thru some tough slumps, had Bozak as his centreman for much of the year, taken more advantage of the chances he has had, he would have scored at least 40.

[Sue]

@hoof - ok will be over to assist soon.

Good for Kessel getting number 31. Now it is Grabo's turn!