Better Or Not?

Once again, proof that there's nothing like a two-game winning streak.

That's if you're the Maple Leafs, of course.

This, needless to say, is part of the problem Ron Wilson faces as coach of the team. The Leafs knocked off Boston and Ottawa in succession last week, two solid victories over divisional opponents, and already there's talk all around that the club is clearly either improved or improving.

Voices on Hockey Night in Canada worried on Saturday that the Leafs might be becoming too good too fast. Luke Schenn (8 games played, 0 points, minus-3) has apparently not only proven he must stay in the NHL, he's being listed as a candidate for the Calder Trophy by various media pundits. The team, some suggest, is burdened with nine "proven" NHL defencemen. It goes on and on.

Just two victories in a row, and a 3-2-3 record, has produced all this.

People do seem to like the way the Leafs are playing, and that's fair, although at this time last year they were the NHL's highest scoring club. This year's team is clearly faster and seems to be more consistently industrious. Against a slumping Ottawa team on Saturday, the Leafs were first to the puck all night and outskated a Senators team that used to outskate the Leafs with ease.

But was that more of a measure of the Sens or the Leafs?

The Boston victory was impressive because it was a comeback win, and in three games last week, the Leafs allowed just six goals, certainly evidence of enhanced defensive play.

But two games in an 82-game slate don't prove much, and Wilson's dilemma, just as it was for Pat Quinn and Paul Maurice and those that came before, is that the city is as easily satisfied as the players. The bar has been set so low by decades without a championship that minor accomplishments are viewed as major ones. HNIC, desperate for the Leafs to do well to enhance it's ratings and with a strong pro-Toronto lean, wildly exaggerates the most meagre positive notes and treats every single member of the team like a star. On last week's show, one analyst suggested Mike Van Ryn was a "great" NHL defenceman.

None of the other five Canadian teams are viewed through the same rose-colored prism as the Leafs by HNIC. That's how players like Darcy Tucker managed to become marquee names.

This is what Wilson is up against. To make this team successful over time, he will have to find a way to overcome the atmosphere surrounding his team that allows a couple of wins to be portrayed as sure signs of progress. Already, you can imagine that he's fearful that the wild praise being showered upon Schenn, who does look like a solid NHL prospect, is going to go to the kid's head.

Last year, Jiri Tlusty scored twice in his first NHL game and folks were projecting him to be a top six forward. A year later, he's in the minors, but there's this belief out there that Schenn is somehow exempt from all of the landmines that trip up young players.

That the team is willing to burn a year of his entry level contract, needless to say, just demonstrates that the Leaf organization still doesn't understand the managing the payroll in a salary cap era is crucial.

But as usual, the Leafs are selling hope, not excellence. Spirit (not winning) is everything, goes the team's slogan.

So what would be measures of team improvement?

Play consistently well for a month. Get the team's goals-against average, now 11th overall, into the top half-dozen. Realize improvement in the league's 24th best penalty killing outfit. Enhance the team's offence, now 28th in the NHL with the 23rd best power play, to at least the top 20.

Some won't like this blog posting, and will say its the usual negative, glass-half-empty approach. This team was not expected to do well, and some will suggest three wins in eight games to start the season is evidence of a team that is over-achieving.

But isn't it about time Leaf fans and local media started looking at their hockey team realistically, rather than believing in the latest two-game win streak?

Comments

[bruce]

if you read team blogs there is only one sort of fan who is deluded, and that is a leaf fan. however, reading leaf fan comments is quite amusing. keep it up....

[Scot Loucks]

11th in overall defense? Not if you take away the 6 goals against by Montreal... the "only" game so far where the team didn't compete. Since then they have been competitive in every game.

You suggest that the fans are looking at the results thru rose coloured glasses but go on to quote HNIC and the media with the over hype.... which is the true source of the BS.

You say that the Leafs haven't improved but go on to day they have improved defensively. Make up your mind sir.

I felt that Schenn should go back to junior as well.... still think it might be a good idea... but Schenn has certainly done nothing to play himself off the team... just the opposite.

Leaf fans are happy to see a hardworking team that comes to play every night... something not seen in this town for over 5 years. True hockey fans in this town know the Leafs are not Stanley Cup material... but an improved work ethic that puts their team in a position to win every night is a vast improvement.

Cheers

[mark]

Wow, another Damien comment about Leafs futility and fan stupidity. What a surprise. And yet another contradition. Damien, you write about the problem of Leafs fans being happy about the team 'competing hard' but not 'winning', yet it is you who seems to be the largest proponent of being patient, building the team through the draft and not expecting immediate results. So, what would you have fans do? Be ticked off for the next 3 years never acknowledging any positives as they sporadically appear while at the same time expecting to win it all 4 years from now? Who's really being unrealistic here?

[Michael Nestlehut]

I think Damien's assessment is fair the plaudits are a little premature, but I like the speed of this year's team and anytime you can win games within your division is a plus. Wilson has been a refreshing kick in the pants to a young team, however, I worry that in year four of his contact the message will get stale.

[Cory]

Looks like Damien is being taken to task, and rightfully so.
While I agree that three wins in eight games is nothing to write home about, many of the Leaf fans I know (and judging by their responses, those posting on here) are, for the most part, realists when it comes to this season and beyond.
Yes, this Leaf team has trouble scoring and its offensive depth will catch up to it. And yes, the power play is usually awful, and the penalty kill has struggled so far. We get it. But to suggest we're all a bunch of lemmings caught up in the kudos for a team that isn't getting blown out is insulting.
I hope the Leafs improve, but still get a top-five pick next year. And maybe the year after that. You have to hit the bottom before you bounce back to the top, but can't we enjoy some success early in the year?
The Leafs have knocked off Detroit and Ottawa and Boston. There are fans of every sports team who are outrageous and unrealistic about their team's chances, and moreso for organizations with huge fan bases like Toronto. But for once, Cox, pull your head out of the sand and quit painting every fan with the same ignorant brush.

[Ryan]

Not a bad post, and I do agree with you on certain points. There are fans and media out there that need to keep their expectations in check. The leafs are 8 games into and 82 game season. And its amazing too see the up and down seesaw manner that so many people react to every win and loss. I think the other night in Ottawa was definitely more a measure of the Sens. They have a better group of individuals that seem to be having trouble adapting to a new coach/system. In fact, to see how well Toronto has adapted to their new coach/system is encouraging when compared to the Sens. And under any circumstance all wins over Ottawa are always welcome.

I do see this team as being improved from last year. Not that I expect them to make the playoffs or even finish as high as last year. But in reforming the team's work ethic and and sense of entitlement. I was a little concerned I would be bored watching the leafs play a defensive trap coming into the season, but I have really enjoyed watching the uptempo forecheck and consistent effort dictated by the coaching staff and the system they have put in place.

I don't believe you can determine Schenn's true progression through points or +/-, the same way you can't determine the Leafs progression by wins and losses through 8 games. Statistics don't show this rookie's poise, vision, ability to take the man, and willingness to stand up for teammates at a moment's notice. Just so everyone knows, Schenn is not and has never been a big point getter. Maybe he has some offensive upside, but right now he looks like a Chris Pronger type minus the offense, and I'm OK with that.

Whoever touted Van Ryn as a "great" NHL d-man should give himself a shake. But I have been pleasantly surprised by his game so far and although McCabe hasn't had much of a chance to right his ship in Florida, I would take Van Ryn over B. McCabe any day of the week. He's a Defenseman who can actually play D and his 5 pts so far don't hurt.

I think most people see Tlusty as a top 6 forward in the league...eventually. The kid is 20 yo and the only reason he's in the minors right now is because he doesn't have to clear waivers. He has had a slow start and maybe some time in the AHL will help him. But he has proven that he can put up points there and an extended visit likely won't be that benificial. He needs to find his way in the NHL, and everyone needs to take a deep breath and be patient.

Lastly, give up on the whole Tucker thing. Really, if I read his name once more in your column it would be a million times too many.

[Norman]

As usual Damien is right as rain.
And as usual the Leaf fanatics are out with their torches and pitchforks.

[S. Storey]

Damien, couldn't agree more. But the play of this team at the moment, or whether or not Luke Schenn stays or not, is not the concern for me.

What worries me, especially after the Ducks came to town, was the continued discussion about Brian Burke as the new Leaf GM.

Despite your opposition to the decision to retain Schenn for the rest of the season, I believe the Leafs actually have the right guy at GM...Cliff Fletcher. It's a shame he is not staying, because he appears to have a plan that could see real success for this team in 2 or 3 years. If Burke was to come in, that could be destroyed very quickly.

Just a thought...

[Lewis McClain]

Damian: I think we are only a Matts Sundin away from a good team. Possibly another game changer like Vinnie, or Joe Thornton,or the big guy from Colombus,but these players are hard to find,and expensive.

[John]

Surprise! Another negative article from Mr. Cox. Nobody is saying the Leafs will win the cup or even be a good team - all anybody is excited about is that they are playing better hockey than last year with a bunch of young and exciting players. Are we not allowed to get excited about our team? It is clear that you are just trying to stir the pot but come on. They probably won't win 2 games in a row for the rest of the year. Let us enjoy this for now.

[Drew]

Hey Roy Anderson,
That's it aim for the peak!! I guess you do indeed support the right team if winning is not important to you!! I guess if "not winning" is your goal, you will always be successful!! why even keep score!! ... standings and championships are overrated!! I'll bet you tell you kids to also aim for mediocrity!!
so ... "Go Leafs ... I mean, "try Leaf's, and don't worry if you don't "win" the game!!!" ... not important at all ...
So, don’t let people like Damien who always are looking for winning result ruin another loosing season!!! I’ll bet he watches the World Series to see if anyone will win ... what a looser!

[Brian]

Damien I do read your rants and some of them are right on but it seems you have some hatred towards to the Leafs.
Look all wise one we know the Leafs are not going to win the cup and they will have ups and downs. That being said they are playing hard and Ron Wilson is placing a new work ethic on this team.
As for Schen give me a break look at the minutes he has been playing and the situations he has been placed in. Schenn is -3 not bad for a first year rookie, he has it all size toughness and smarts.
It will be a long tough season but the Leafs are on the right track give them a break Cox.

[paul]

Ahh Mr Cox, when you yourself note that your blog is "negative and glass half empty", then it speaks volumes about your perception of the Leafs... and when your media collegues refer to you as the "devils advocate" before a television interview then it speaks volumes about your reputation in Toronto... however your admission regarding your negativity is perhaps the first step towards recovery... you can do it... we believe in you!

[Scott]

The only thing that was correct in that blog was the fact that you knew it would be met with criticism. I know you have about 80 blog per hockey season but you're saying the same things in each one. Regarding the Schenn issue, what does the one year lost really mean? It's not the end of the world and they have plenty of time to plan for that. Schenn cannot get the same experience he is getting if he was sent back to junior. He's playing against the world's best. And he's going toe to toe with the likes of Chris Neil. I know you can't recant on your previous point of how Luke should be sent down but at least stop writing about it, espcially since it's no longer an issue and he is staying.

[Chris Belanger]

I want to talk about Schenn. You want him to be some superstar in Junior. But the kid's good enough to play in the NHL. IMHO, you get better by playing better competition. Goalies get better by playing in better leagues. So do other players. If you want him to truly develop, give him 20+ minutes a night in the NHL, not 24+ in Junior. Oh, is that what Ron is doing? Oh, yes it is. We aren't talking about making a kid ride the pine, "learning" from the bench.
Luke is good enough to play in the NHL. He's big enough, too. He's only going to get bigger and stronger and smarter. Leave him alone.

[Geoff Read]

"Reality":

I feel for you and other Islanders fans. Mike Milbury was the worst GM in NHL history, bar none. How he has the nerve to posture as an expert on TV and radio now is beyond me.

[Jim G]

It's confusing to read these comments. Damien mentions how overly glee-full Leaf fans can be after a couple wins, and then to prove him wrong you slam him, complain about anti-Leaf bias, and express joy and optimism by pointing out all the great things the Leafs did over the two-game win streak?

You just proved him right.

Keep up the good work, Damien.
Some of us still have our heads firmly attached to our torso.

[nugentmania]

I think Damien's point for making note of Schenns stats is the promised assertion from Fletcher that he'd have to "blow us away" to make the team. He's been steady, for sure. But as I've written here before, you don't blow a contract year on someone who won't make a difference in where you finish. And if I'm wrong? Well, that's another issue then. The quickest way to rebuild is to finish at the bottom. Maurice "coached" the Leafs out of the Stamkos Cup because once JFJ got canned, the only miracle that would keep him coaching in Toronto was the playoffs. But the suits can't do the math.

[R COutts]

I have one simple comment - for once the great preponderance of the comments on your article are balanced and realistic. The Leafs are showing spirit, speed and an improving defensive game. That said, very few fans are thinking the Leafs are now contenders or that this may not change. However, it is clear to knowlegeable fans that they have demonstrated a refreshingly competitive brand of hockey that is a testament to their coaching and perhaps a slightly higher talent level than many pundants may have suggested. It's only eight games, but its a start.

Regarding Luke Schen, the question is and has always been what is best for Luke Schen, which I believe you stated several weeks ago, rather than a question of cap management. If he continues to play 20+ minutes a game and enjoy some success in key situation, staying with the Leafs is likely the best option for his development. Personally, I'm torn on this and would be more comfortable with his staying if I knew what other d-man might get moved for what asset(s). Regardless, his maturity and game are completely different from previous 18 year olds that played for the Leafs.

[Mark]

Damien,

While I generally agree on most of your opinions, it seems that lately things are just getting to be negative for negative's sake in your blog. Leaf fans are not stupid, yes we like seeing the team win and yes we like talking about future hope. However, it is mainly the media who puts this team on a pedastal year after year, with networks like CBC trying to boost their ratings and protect their own agenda. The exciting thing about this team for the fans is that they are young, put in a great effort, and have a coach who will actually hold them accountable. Pat Quinn was a good coach, but too loyal to his veterans, Paul Maurice seemed too busy trying to be best friends with everyone in Toronto rather than coach, but Ron Wilson is actually implementing defensive systems and simple hockey and is most importantly holding his players to those systems (and if they don't like it, they ride the pine ex:Jason Blake)

Point being, nobody is planning a parade or saying the team is saved, but we are all just enjoying watching a Leaf team compete for every inch of ice for the first time in four years. That to me is something to celebrate, maybe its time you re-evaluated your perspective on these issues, and direct your criticisms at the right people, the media.

[Conn Smythe]

'As usual Damien is right as rain.
And as usual the Leaf fanatics are out with their torches and pitchforks.'

Sure thing Norman - how is Damian right again? No one is planning the parade - but fans are excited. As they should be - this team plays hard and gives a solid effort every night.

And what's wrong with being excited when your team wins 2 games in a row?

[Ray Brewer]

Nice article..I think you are just writing this stuff to get people to read your columns and gather attention to yourself..I watch you on the reporters and I read your blog and you always point out that you couldn't care less if the Leafs win or loose..I honestly think you wouldn't have much to write about if they played like the Red Wings..I compare the Leafs to the Red Sox of baseball..The media in Boston didn't know what to do with themselves when they won the world series..You can't put too much negativity in an article about a team that won..

Luke Schenn has already played 3 years of junior hockey..Why send him down to junior for a 4th season?..I don't think he looks out of place at all..Nobody is saying he is the next Scott Stevens but lets see how he develops..Is it so bad that the fans are holding out optimism for the future?

If the Leafs do well this season people like you will be disapointed that they didn't finish dead last..If they blow chunks all season you will have plenty of fodder for your articles...

Maybe you should start covering the Canadian Lawn Bowling team..Now thats a team you can make fun of..

[Conn Smythe]

'It's confusing to read these comments. Damien mentions how overly glee-full Leaf fans can be after a couple wins, and then to prove him wrong you slam him, complain about anti-Leaf bias, and express joy and optimism by pointing out all the great things the Leafs did over the two-game win streak?'

Right Jim G - another apologist for Cox. How did we (Leaf fans) prove him right? Leaf fans are happy with the way the team is playing - a marked contrast from the teams of the past 3 years, and this proves Cox right how?

I don't think I've read one post here proclaiming the Leafs as cup contenders...If there is such a post, it is incorrect.

Again, when your favourite team wins 2 games in a row, how should we react, Cox? Indifferent? Bored? Angry?

[o_nolan1]

Damien, you are missing the point entirely. This team is improved compared to what is expected of them, which is very little. You can't match them up with last year's team because they are almost entirely new. We as Leaf fans have to get excited by small victories. Forty one years will do that.

[Happy Gilmour]

First of all comparing Luke Schenn to Jiri Tlusty is like comparing Dion Phaneuf to Alex Steen. Compare apples with apples please. You're right about the Toronto's media overvaluing guys like Tlusty and Van Ryn but you are merely restating Ron Wilson quotes. As for the club, the improvement is measured on the ice and in the team identity. The stats you keep quoting are a sad attempt to quantify your argument that they haven't improved. Compare the team this year ( a quick, hard working smart team) to last year's (a team that spent most of the night scrambling around slowly in their own end) and there is a vast difference between the two. Most of the Leafs goals against came in 3 games (Pitt, Mtl and StL) wheras the last week has shown a big improvement. Lastly, there's a reason why Fletcher and Wilson have been in this game at this level for so long and you have not: They know more than you do about hockey at the professional level. What they have done with this team in the past six months IS a great achievement: More youth, less salary and a more competitive team. They are not contenders but they haven't been considered that since 2004. At least with the changes they have a chance to become contenders as opposed to running on a treadmill as they have been since the lockout.