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All over, bar the shouting

TIM WHARNSBY

From Wednesday's Globe and Mail

Latest comment posted at 8:48 AM EDT 26/03/08

Toronto comes out flat against team it was trying to catch for the final playoff spot ...Read the full article

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  1. Shafty One from Canada writes: Finally, the charade ends
  2. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Nice picture of a Halifax boy, Glen Murray, scoring a goal there, G&M...

    It's not over 'till it's over, Leaf fans... However, if it is, I think the thing to remember for next year is that the NHL season officially begins in September...

    And consumers who don't demand better will be constantly disappointed...

    Cheers...
  3. Emmanuel Chan from Toronto, Canada writes: Good riddance. Now we can focus on the real hockey teams rather than these sad-sack wannabes. GO HABS!
  4. steve allan from Canada writes: Nice to see Murray still playing top notch hockey.

    As far as the Leafs go, like I said last week - not enough to make the playoffs and too much to win a spot in the draft lottery. What a team!
  5. Montgomery C. Burns from Springfield, Canada writes: Don't despair yet, Leaf Nation. I predicted the Bruins would win one of the games. Look for the Buds to storm back and win Thursday. Mind you, it's likely that Washington will win that evening as well.

    All should be clearer by the weekend.
  6. Pat Billings from CDN, Canada writes: na na na na hey hey hey goodbye!!!!

    The overachieving 12th place team with their 30 yr old career backup goaltender crumbled when the pressure was on.

    Shoalts and Wharnsby are going to need some consoling here. Let's all be nice. They'll get up tomorrow and realize the Habs are first in the conference.
  7. jake and pete from Canada writes: We hard nail hockey fans know what needs to be done. But will the Leafs find a Czar to run this franchise?
  8. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: 'All over bar the shouting???'

    It cannot be -- What will Leafs haters/fanatics do with themselves now?

    Fortunately, there is always room for one more on the Habs' bandwagon...

    And remember that the Habs will be on HNIC nationally this weekend... :)
  9. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Any poster on these boards with an ounce of sense knew this team was toast in November. That they were in the playoff mix this late in the season speaks more to the colours than reason.

    Can this organization make the changes needed to make the hockey club competetive for Stanley. I don't think so.

    My solution - the board fires Maurice, the board resigns, Fletcher hands the reigns to MB who resigns Mats as a Player-Coach and draws the team from the Marlies after buying out all the contracts eligible for a buy out.

    5 years later ( a heartbeat in Leaf terms) - the team is guaranteed to be in the finals. I can take this on for a minimal salary of a half-million a year plus free title to exclusive Muskoka property.
  10. Montgomery C. Burns from Springfield, Canada writes: Mariposa, sounds like a plan! Just remember to lock Peddie in a local Loblaws store.
  11. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Robert - please take all the Leafs fans onto the Habs bandwagon. The backbiting, negative comments and blindness to any shortcomings will cause the wheels to fall off quickly.

    Disappointed in your comment tonight - heavy fog must have come between you and your keyboard.
  12. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Oh boy... I get to be the first Leaf fan to post..... lucky me.

    We get to interrupt this regularly scheduled leaf bashing for someone who cares....

    Thought McCabe proved tonight why Kubina is a keeper and he is toast as a leaf.

    McCabe, Bell and Tucker all took stupid penalties.

    Some brutal calls from the referees....

    Missed opportunities and missed assignments.... Leaf season in a nutshell.

    We now return you to your regularly scheduled comedy hour.
  13. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada:

    Actually, there are surprisingly no Leaf fans here... They seem to all be down in Cabbagetown drowning their sorrows tonight... Lucky stiffs!

    Oddly, it seems to be just Habs and Sens fans on this thread so far...

    BTW Sorry to have disappointed you two nights in a row, but that's hockey, eh?
  14. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada:

    Atta' boy, Scott...

    You have been exemplary in your continual support of this team in the last few weeks...

    If only some of the foreign born millionaires on the Leafs gave even half the effort that you do as a fan...

    BTW Shouldn't the Leafs give you a medal or something?
  15. j q from Canada writes: Can the Leaf haters, trolls and wanna be trolls now focus on their own teams. Too much delight in watching a train wreck when you guys have so much for which to cheer. I guess whatever turns your crank. Good luck to the other Canadian teams. l'll be watching like always but not necessarily cheering for a specific team.

    As for the Leafs, at least Fletcher (or whoever takes over) will have free reign without the inconvenience of a playoff appearance to cloud the issue of reshaping this group. First move is to tell Maurice to give Toskala a rest! Next is advise those injured not to hurry back, and give as many minutes to the marlie call ups as possible for the final 5 games.
  16. George Lucas from Canada writes: It is over, time to throw in the towel. The way the veteran core of the team played tonight, shows why the team needs to be blown up
    real good.
    Pavel has played well enough that he might attract a decent package in a trade.
    I still think that McCabe is untradeable with his contract, not that the contract is his fault.
    Tucker should be bought out as well as Bell and Raycroft.
    By the end of next year, perhaps at the trade deadline, if they start working on him early enough, Kaberle should be dealt. He has a high value but he will be 30 and by the time the team will be good again he will be too old. They would be better off maximizing his value while they can.
  17. gabriel oak from Canada writes: As Fletcher said a couple of weeks ago, this team plays better when there's no pressure. When it's 'do or die' they opt for the latter. Been that way for 3 decades. The fear of winning is a certifiable trait among many so-called top achievers, teams or individuals - and the Leafs have it in spades. No amount of whingeing about 'winning in September/October/November' will change that psychology. It has to come from other sources.
  18. j q from Canada writes: Scot,

    Both teams appeared tentative right from the face off. The difference was Bell's overly aggressive elbows up on Hnidy that led to the first power play and then Stralman missing his check in front of Toskala. The rest of the evening was reminescent of the games early in the season when the goaltenders were left on their own. Awful!!

    At least they might now have a chance at a pick in the top 8. Maybe a dim hope, but we'll find it any where we can, right!
  19. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Scot - as you know, I do not support the Leafs.

    The improbable string has ended, as we knew it would back in November.

    Now what - continue to hope that the ghosts of Stanley past lift this team (as most of the fanatics believe) or build for the present and furture. If it is the former - I can supply the spiritual channel to my great-gran to infuse the goaltending of Johnny Bower to the current holder of the position.

    For a modest fee.
  20. j wilson from vancouver, Canada writes: Yep. Thats that. Nice talking to you guys this year.
  21. Pat Billings from CDN, Canada writes: j q from Canada take it easy on Bell, the kid just realized he's heading to California in a few weeks...and it won't be to enjoy the beaches....
  22. j q from Canada writes: Belle,

    Enjoy the ride with your Sens!

    As for what you gotta sell, there ain't nothing you got that can't be had a dollar store.
  23. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: j q - sorry I pre-emptive your offer.
  24. j q from Canada writes: Billings,

    Your energy and effort is better directed at cheering for your Habs rather than this last nail. Move along there ain't nothing to see here. Here's hoping the tricolour make some major noise in the postseason.
  25. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Totally agree with all you say j q.

    Was it just me or were the kids (especially Newbury) the best ones out their during their 4 minutes (Newbury) and 8 minutes (Williams).

    Total cheap shot Billings on Bell... I expect that from the Troll..... not many others. (I don't like Bell but turning around a bad drinking habit is something to be proud of).

    I'm not sure about playing too many of the kids over the final games.... I'd rather see them playing for the Marlies and going for the Calder..... they have a good chance with that and they need to be in a winning atmosphere. (I expect the leaf dressing room to be like a morgue for the rest of the year).

    McCabe Blake and Tucker all managed to be minus 2 tonight... please please please get rid of all three.

    Sundin into the surgical ward so he can start his rehab just like Colaiacovo.

    Poni made a case for himself over the last few games.... including tonight. As did Steen Stajan and Moore.

    Certainly time to play Raycroft.... but it's not going to happen until the math says otherwise.

    Cheers
  26. j q from Canada writes: Scot,

    I was pleasantly surprised at their refusal to lay down in the home and home set with Philadelphia, and then winning all three games last week. But, they've had problems with the Bruins defence all year and without the line of Sundin, Antropov, & Poni, I figured they were toast. The Habs have shown that the way to beat a large and relatively immobile defense is with three lines loaded with speed and scoring first. Tonight, the Leafs did neither.

    As for changes. You've got to expect that Raycroft will be bought out of his last year at $2 mil or assigned to the Marlies. No one knows if Sundin will be back. If not, I'd really look at a new blue print for this team based on a lot more grit and toughness.
  27. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Again... you and I are on the same page j q.

    If you look at the UFA's available this summer (nhlnumbers.com) the only ones that jump right out at me are Ryder and Avery.

    I just hope they don't try pulling an Edmonton stunt and put out big offer sheets to RFA's.

    Toughness is definitely required. (Softest leaf team in my memory played this year). One tough D-man and some forwards.

    I want Sundin back... if only because I don't see a replacement on the UFA list... and the fact that he loves playing with young players.
    I also want to see Antropov playing on a different line than Sundin..... I believe he is more effective when he isn't looking for Sundin to pass to.

    Cheers
  28. j q from Canada writes: Scot,

    Btw, there is no point in admonishing Leaf haters, trolls and wannabe trolls. They don't get it. With freedom comes responsibility. Civility comes from within and no one can dictate it to some one else.
  29. j q from Canada writes: Scot,

    If there is nothing out there in the UFA market this summer, then all the more reason to focus on extricating themselves from the current core and those contracts. Kaberle is the only contract of good value. Kubina may have played himself onto the team next year. So, Tucker, Blake and McCabe need to be resolved. It will be a tough if not impossible.

    If anything can be done, I would like to see the Leafs hold off on signing anymore pricey free agents for at least a year and keeping the cap space while playing as many marlies next year as possible. In a cap world,
    that space can be valuable in leveraging more draft picks. And there is also the Tavares sweepstakes next summer.

    Cheers and goodnight.
  30. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: j q;

    While I don't disagree with your statement vis a vis trolls and haters... I have found over the last season and the playoffs last year that you can at least cause some of them to give their collective heads a shake.

    For some (PC/Claude) it was all about attacking their teams. For quite a few others I have found that they really would like to talk about hockey and their teams.... they just didn't get a response unless they were talking shite.

    If we could access last years threads and compare them to this years I think you would find that they have grown into a significantly higher percentage of intelligent comment rather than trash talk.

    Almost six months ago I stopped talking about global warming, Liberals and Conservatives.... War in Iraq.... our situation in Afghanistan.... because the threads didn't involve conversation... it was all partisan BS.

    The Sports threads have improved (IMHO) ... while the rest stay the same (some are worse).

    Cheers to good conversation.
  31. Patrick Matheson from Canada writes: As I have said it before...

    I will say it again...

    The Leafs Suck (tm)

    Circa August 29, 2003
  32. george simko from Canada writes: NOTICE:
    To all former passionate Torontonians, who have any aspirations
    supporting the 24 time Cup winners,the Montreal Canadians.
    It is strongly suggested you brush up on your French. There will
    be a short test for qualifying purposes.Upon successful completion
    you will receive a fleur de lis to wave at your discretion. The flag
    should be prominently displayed in your front window,to signify
    your support.
  33. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Agree again j q.

    Just imagine... the Leafs with cap space to burn.

    Not holding my breathe though.

    Cheers and good night.
  34. Proud Canadian from Canada writes: Scotty Loucks. I agree with everything you said or tried to say. Whatever it was. But one thing. (And I know I can make a statement to you without getting a punch in the head). U keep pummeling ol Blake. Gd. I think that guy gives his 110% every night. He does hog the puck, he sometimes passes when the other is not anticipating, but geez, that guy gives 110% every shift. Not? I didnt see the game tonite, ur idea that McCabe, Tucker and Bell should go, I can not argue. Raycroft too. I feel sorry for guys like yourself, die hard fans, live and die, blood flows for the team. During the off season, I hope, for your sake and many others that they may find a blend to put on the ice, behind the bench, and up in the front office that for starters will afford you guys a playoff position next year. Start from there, even if its 4 and ur gone, at least its a start. Not??? Gotta start somewhere, and somewhere is not at the top. In hockey, in golf, in truck driving, (with that one, Im nowhere near the top, after 5 yrs on the road and admit it) its NOT AT THE TOP. So lets move slowly, tediously, with common sense and do it.
  35. George S from Toronto, Canada writes: I agree with the different posters I read that hope that Sundin stays around for another year. Also wish that the Leafs wouldn't look for some unrestricted free agent or off season block buster trade to solve their problems. Wish the Leafs would do what my other favorite team has done and invest heavily in its youth. The Habs were also a fairly average team not too long ago and they didn't go out and sign some expensive urf to get them out of being close to the basement. They developed some of their youth and stuck with them, now, they have a relatively young team that is battling it out for first place. I know that Toronto has a large scouting team out their and they have a good farm club for developing this talent, I just wish that they would use this good resource because, as the Habs are showing, it pays off.
  36. Henry Allen from East Bank, Don River, Canada writes:
    Scott Loucks, your chauvinistic love of the Leafs remains steadfast. By chauvinistic, I mean the pure sense of the word, which is derived from one Nicolas Chauvin. Chauvin, despite being wounded some 17 times in battles the service of Napoleon Bonaparte, remained fiercely loyal, never wavered.

    For repeatedly taking shots on behalf of the Leafs and never flinching even a millimetre in your love of the Leafs, you are hereby awarded the highest medal of honour bestowed by MLSE. It is a blue and white ribbon from which is suspended a puck with a hole in its centre.
  37. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Hi Scot Loucks- You are not alone. Very dissapointing game. McCabe never fails to amaze me with one knucklehead move (or lack of movement) game after game. I really need to see Toskala with a real 'D' in front of him. As I said before, the safest workplace in Ontario is in front of the Leaf net. I fail to see any positives from any of them- Kaberle wasting time on power plays by not shooting, Kubina can be counted on for one or two major gaffes per game and McCabe is the worst example of a defenceman I have ever seen. Blow up the entire defence corps and give Toskala a fighting chance.

    Cheers, I guess
  38. Verona Raven from United States writes: The Leafs will no doubt go on a buy-OUT spree with much of this team. I think its tragic that they would tease their fans like this...improving to not make the playoffs and move up in the standings to place themselves
    for a lower draft pick.

    Dysfunctional...
  39. Dave Morris from Ottawa, writes: Leafs run out of gas...hard to see how they will beat Boston when the Bruins will be clawing for that playoff spot they have. Hard to see how they will beat Montreal twice, and Ottawa. Sabres maybe. But then again, they have nothing to lose now. Toronto may get five points at best in the last five games...not enough to squeak in. As a final note...the trend over the next few years will be to younger, faster, bigger players. Pens, Habs, Caps, Flyers are well positioned for the future. Leafs have some big decisions ahead.
  40. DT . from Canada writes: Can we now expect an end to all this G&M effort being dedicated to Canada's national source of shame -- the Leafs? Come on, they've been a below average team for over 40 years. The last 15 have been terrible, and during the last three, they've looked like an overweight OHL team.

    All you leafs fans should now focus on the Jays. You can afford the tickets, and from what I can see on tv, there are usually a few empty seats.

    Nice to see those mighty Sens strom back last night. I was hoping for an overtime win myself, so as to give the Sabres an extra point, but I'll take 5 goals in less than 8 minutes.
  41. sam themacman from Waterloo, Canada writes: 'remember the Habs will be on nationally this weekend' :)
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------There is only one reason the Habs, or the Sens are on nationally on HNIC, and it is either, they are playing the Laughs, or the Laughs are eliminated. That is the way this Toronto centric CBC runs things! Too bad it is not more even handed.

    Finally now, reality sinks in. The Laughs have not been good enough for a long time. Now, can we please move on.

    The world of hockey does not revolve around Toronto. Look around and see. The Habs alone have a huge following in Canada, and yes, right here in Southern Ontario, as well as the west and the east, and even more so outside N. America. The Toronto media and the Laughs Nation needs to get real. Toronto is not the hockey capital of Canada. Never was, and never will be.
  42. Bruuks Brew from Canada writes: As was predicted months ago, (by me and others) they played just well enough to not make the playoffs, but not poorly enough to secure a good draft pick. I laugh at their ineptness.

    Go Habs Go!
  43. Simon Croswell from Toronto, Canada writes: Where is that gutless Swede when you need him? Pretending to be injured? Polishing his golf clubs? Is he already negotiating a new contract with the New York Rangers?
  44. Al MacDonald from Cathedral of Hockey, Canada writes: Do ya think maybe now we'll get some Habs games on HNIC?
    Or will CBC air the Sens games until they're eliminated as well!
  45. Proud Canadian from Canada writes: Paul I from Rochester and Scotty Loucks, personally, and as stated above by other posters, the youth movement must start to evolve. Has to. Paul, blowing up the defence. Remember, if you buy guys out, for instance McCabe and Kubina, it goes against the cap for a bit. Not sure of the math, doesnt matter, but it does affect the cap at the end of the day. UFA's, if you can get players for a 'modest' salary, fine, but the big bomber contracts, you need some coin to pay the 22nd and 23rd guy on the bench also. Right??? I am no hockey expert, nor am I at the tube night after night watching to form an educated opinion on whats available, but my thinking, no matter how stupid, I think you guys have to start a youth movement, eg Corey Perry, Getzlaf in Anaheim, the Philly group, etc. Gotta get those good solid young players who are at entry level money for a couple years........ Am I on the right path????
  46. George E. Porgie from Canada writes: Scot and j q .....great input re Leafs. Have really enjoyed your analysis and viewpoints re 'the troubles' this season.

    Leafs play in a huge fishbowl. Everyone and his/her dog has an opinion!

    The math indicates an improbable chance at making a playoff spot...but with so many structural weaknesses in the current team no hope forseen.

    Wait til next year......or the year after...or...????
  47. Tubers Boomer from Whosville, Canada writes: Pat Billings from CDN, Canada wrote: na na na na hey hey hey goodbye!!!!

    Pat, get it right.....na na na, na na na, hey hey, goodbye! ;-)
  48. Fred Heff from cowtownCalgary, Canada writes: Flames and Canadians for the Stanley Cup !

    Again.
  49. Lane Myers from Canada writes: GOlf Leafs GOlf
  50. garlick toast from Canada writes: c'mon the leafs were a huge success at the box office.they made a ton of money for the teachers.if you want a real team,try staying home from the games.
  51. Flinton Rice from Toronto, Canada writes: The Leafs are finally out and all the Sens fans loved watching what happened last night.

    You'll now find the Leafs fans on the Sens boards just waiting for them to make their early exit from the Playoffs - like we know the perennial chokers can. At least the Leafs gave a bit of hope over the past month which is a lot more than can be said about the Senaturds. Go Gerber Go!

    I'm cheering for the the Flames and Iginla from here on out. They're the only real Canadian team left.
  52. Pat Billings from CDN, Canada writes: Tubers Boomer from Whosville, Canada writes: na na na na hey hey goodbye!!!!

    Imagine the Bell centre on April 5th, they can start to sing the song from the drop of the puck...

    Then chant...1967! 1967!

    Ole, Ole, Ole...
  53. R A from Canada writes: Pat Billings...yes the Hab fans will be signing lots before they get smoked by just about any other playoff team in the East - you boys better be hoping Boston is the 1st round match up and then you at least have a chance to see the 2nd round....maybe.
  54. Carl Baldin from Canada writes: Yeeeeee Haaaaaaw!
    Now The Globe & other media can focus on the Canadian teams that matter - that are in a playoff race.

    The most over rated team in hockey should consider:

    - joining the AHL (where they will be competative), or
    - trading the entire team, including management, to Atlanta, or
    - putting a blckout on all TV, Newspapers etc. etc. outside of the 'centre of the universe',

    so other Canadians don't have to listen to hopeless fans (including Bob Cole) that make this team to be so great when they in fact are an absolute joke!

    Amen!
  55. Pat Billings from CDN, Canada writes: R A from Canada

    What you would you know about playoff hockey, the leaf haven't been in a playoff game since 2004 back in the day where they were able to desperately outspend the rest of the league in buying a cup?

    Unlike your overachieving 12th place team, the Habs are 1st in the conference and have shown an ability to compete and win against every single team in the East.

    Ole, Ole, Ole, Ole!!!!
  56. Robert McKenzie from Ottawa, writes: ...
    Hey Leaf Nation!

    What does Heather Mills and some of the Leafs have in common?

    Heather Mills = an under-acheiving, overpaid contract with an obvious impediment.
    McCabe, Sundin, Tucker, Bell etc = all under-acheiving, overpaid contracts with obvious impediments.

    The only difference is that Mills execised her 'no-trade clause' and cashed out.

    This just in:

    MLSE has just announced that for the last game of the regular season, the first 5,000 fans into the ACC will receive a free inflatable copy of Heather Mills prosthetic leg to wave their team goodbye for the season. No doubt that these will become collector items.
  57. NotASpoiledAthelete Athelete from Canada writes: I have yet to figure out why so many people complain about not being able to watch any of the other Canadian teams play when cable providers offer the NHL channels! Sure you have to pay - but is the loyalty to your respective club so shallow that an extra $10-$20 a month for a few months is too much money? I guess it's cheaper to moan than actually do something about it.

    Discuss...lol
  58. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Proud Canadian- You are absolutely on the right path. Youth, youth and more youth is what this team needs in a big way. I enjoyed watching the Blackhawks this season with Kane and the other kid whose name I can't spell ('Don't tase me bro!') The results will be the same, but who cares. This is an entertainment business- so effing entertain me! The Leafs will always make money, the building will always be full, and the replica jerseys will be sold no matter who is playing. Let the youth campaign start now. McCabe-Gone!, Kubina-See 'Ya!, Kaberle- Hasta La Vista baby!, Mats- we love you, but, Tucker- Bye-Bye Sideshow!, Raycroft-No, Thank You! Average age of the team next year should be 23 years old.
  59. R A from Canada writes: Pat Billings writes 'the Habs are 1st in the conference and have shown an ability to compete and win against every single team in the East. '

    Youre kidding right??? How have they competed against the 5th place sens or even the 12th place Leafs? Ole ole alright, right out of the playoffs....lol.
  60. J K GALBRAITH from Canada writes: Most of us diehard Leaf fans knew that it would take a minor miracle for the Leafs to make the playoffs, paharticularly when they would have to do something they never did all year which is win five or six games in a row. In spite of all the comments about the defense, the reality is that the Leafs did not make the playoffs this year due to the really sub-par years of Jason Blake, Darcy Tucker, and Kyle Wellwood. If these three players had even average years, then the Leafs would not be leading the league in overtime losses and would have won several more games. In fact they might have been been able to finish as high as six place given the small difference between the top 4 playoff teams and bottom four teams in the playoffs in the Eastern Conference. The question then becomes do you buy them out or take the approach that they were so far below their regular performances that they should rebound next year. At the same time these three didn't perform, Steen, Stajan and Ponikarovsky did perform to their regular levels. This means they dissappear for significant portions of the season and cannot step up when other players are injured. Since the Leafs are not going to be a Stanley Cup contender for at least three years (Leaf bashers don't laugh but in the new NHL any team can become a contender in three year), I would take the chance on three subperformers being better next year and not buy them out but let Steen, Stajan, and Ponikarovsky move on and let Tlusty and some of the other young players get tested to see if they can play as well or better next year.
  61. Allan Martel from Canada writes: I waited until this afternoon to post further analysis of the games last night.

    The Sens comeback was nothing short of Sensational thanks first to the shorthanded goal and then to Alfie, a true team leader. This game might, just might, get them all back on track.

    As for the Leafs, it's all been said above and we all knew that the latest efforts were too little too late didn't we?

    It's time to cue the brooms for a clean sweep of the Leafs' locker room and a fresh start. I would gut this team completely and start afresh with a caseload of Fabreeze at the ready in case it doesn't work.

    As for Robert Mckenzie's comments about Heather Mills, I find them offensive and unfair. The poor girl barely has a leg to stand on and clearly requires support, not criticism.

    As to the inflatable legs idea, it won't be allowed to happen because Tucker has an exclusive MLSE blowhard franchise. Also, there won't be 5,000 fans who even show up for the game.

    Go Jays Go.
  62. SY GIL from Canada writes: That's great they are finally out of it. We can now all look forward to the moving trucks/planes to move guys like Kubina out. Hopefully Mccabe will be swept out too. As well as Stajan and Steen have played recently, it 's no guarantee that they can sustain that over a whole season. This team needs to be torn apart. Everyone is expendable if the price is right. The only good thing coming out of this 'run' is that Cliff Fletcher can demand more in return when he unloads players like Kubina, Pony, Antropov. This team is too soft, too slow, too old, and too mediocre. TPP should invest in having the best scouting staff in hockey to ensure they don't draft stiffs that never make it to the big team!!
  63. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: SY GIL- are you suggesting that the Leafs should stop scouting by reading old copies of The Hockey News? Blasphemy! That could easily double the scouting budget. No way! Any extra funds will be spent designing a new chicken sandwich that will retail for $25.00. That's Leaf Hockey. Pass the Mustard! Don't worry about passing the puck.
  64. Proud Canadian from Canada writes: Paul I from Rochester. Agree. Get rid of some of the cracked cement. Im not saying this in jest, Im saying it because of the previous record of this team. Watch next fall. Mark my word, I hope Im dead wrong, I mean dead wrong, but watch my word, when training camp opens, there will be some new faces. Not many, maybe 2-3. The scary thing, the people you mentioned as being gone, will still be there. Again, I hope Im wrong, but I can see either McCabe or Kubina being there, and I can see Tucker still there. And way back in my head, I can see Blake still there. Again, not trying to entice you into an argument, Im only stating what has happened before will haunt you, Scotty Loucks and the rest of Leaf Nation again. I hope, for all your sake Im wrong but I got a gutt feeling I wont be. Comments !!!!!!!
  65. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: PC- I know you are right. I would like to think otherwise, but since the trade for Gilmour and the hiring of Pat Burns about 100 years ago, I can't think of a single thing the Leafs have done to demonstrate any commitment to winning. I await corrections from my fellow inhabitants of LN. Pass the mustard!
  66. DT . from Canada writes: The beauty of the Leafs' predicament is that they are showing everyone that if they want to win, they can. Just not all that often over the entire season. Like the last two years, they've made this spectacular push near season's end, and management thinks this is what the start of the next season bring. Now, those of us not looking through blue-coloured glasses know the reality will be quite different from expectations, but at least the Leafs provide the rest of the Eastern conference fans with something to laugh at.

    Imagine if the Leafs were actually as good as their fans believe? That would be annoying, wouldn't it. Here's to another 41 years of uselessness! It looks good on them.
  67. Bobby S from Toronto, Canada writes: Finally!!!! Let's hope this OFFICIALLY kills all the playoff talk in these parts. The fact is, the Leafs have not been a playoff team all year irrelevant of the annual late season surge. What bothers me most about this team is there seems to be no accountability. I blame Maurice and the rest of management for that. If McCabe, Tucker or Blake make a mistake or a series of mistakes, no one does anything to reprimaned them. Even last night's game proved that Maurice is not willing to do anything. If Tucker takes a stupid penalty, sit him. I would much rather see Tlutsy. If McCabe makes another bonehead play, sit him. I would much rather see Strallman. Throughout the entire season no one has been sent to the press box, no gets sent to the minors, nothing happens to anyone unless it's injury related. It seems, no one is willing to make a tough decision. Contrast that to Montreal who have a coach and GM willing to make those types of decisions. If Carbonneau doesn't think Ryder is playing to his capabilities he bench's him. If Gainey thinks he's not going to get anymore for Huet, he trades him. That's what great leaders do, they make decisions that are not easy. As the Leafs have demonstrated time and time again, they typically are behind the 'eight' ball when big decisions are needed to be made, cue the Ferguson firing and maybe just as surprising the fact Maurice hasn't been fired. I have stopped watching this team for the better part of the last 2 months and can't wait until the playoffs start so that I can actually see some 'real' hockey.
  68. Alberto Bayo from Canada writes: Carl Baldin from Canada writes: Yeeeeee Haaaaaaw!
    Now The Globe & other media can focus on the Canadian teams that matter - that are in a playoff race.
    Don't count on it...there's plenty of "What went wrong"... "Building for the future", and "If Only the Leafs ......." stories to come.
  69. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: DT- Harsh, very harsh. But thank you for the revealing insight that alot of people don't like the Leafs. Thanks too, for the biggest news flash of the season- the Leafs aren't all that good. Leaf Nation!, DT has unmasked us all, the jig is up! We like a bad team! Heavens to Betsy- all this time I thought the Leafs could lower my cholesteral. Thanks DT. Maybe I'll switch to the Florida Panthers or Atlanta Thrashers.
  70. j q from Canada writes: Bayo,

    After every Habs game, there is a story and ample opportunity to comment and exchange views with other like minded Habs supporters. So rather than constantly lamenting on a Leafs thread, and depriving yourself of time spent cheering for your team, just go and do it. Leave the rest of us Leaf fans to do likewise. The fact that more of us post should be inconsequential to fans of the Habs or the Sens. Best of luck with your playoff run!
  71. Howard Young from Canada writes: Paul I, speaking of expensive sandwiches. The Platinum Club at the ACC has a tasty gourmet hamburger made of Wagyu beef topped with fois grois, portabello shrooms, truffle flavoured cheese and bacon. A nice distraction for when the on-ice entertainment isn't good. :)
  72. Kevin Cochrane from Clear Lake, Manitoba, Canada writes: Now, finally, you can all beach and whine to your hearts content, stick a fork in them, they're done. We shall now await the David Shoalts 'They are done, I told you so' which was to quickly follow last night's loss although such profoundness isn't cranked out in a matter of minutes. Thankfully, the 'They might make it' column managed to make an appearence just before yesterday's game. Official Maple Leaf t-shirts with the slogan 'Blow up this team' will be on sale this weekend, pre-order at the MLSE website. Hopefully, we will have just enough time to evaluate and trade every Leaf player living or dead from the past 40 years however there will be a second nightshift of Toronto scribes necessary for the task. If you have any interest in commenting on just where exactly the Leafs went wrong and who needs to be traded please print a list and send it to any place I will have no chance of reading said list. Thank you all for coming and we will see you in the fall.
  73. j q from Canada writes: Bobby S, Your view on Maurice is bang on! While the coach is farily good with PR, I agree that he has not managed the players well in terms of accountability. The coach and the players appeared to be in mutual admiration mode when all signs pointed to the ship running aground. As an example, when they allowed Carolina to score in the last minute of regulation and then lost in OT, Poni should've been benched or sent to the press box for a couple of games for having that "out of body experience" which prevented him from putting the puck in the empty net. Even if he missed, the puck was in no danger of coming back on a mid ice turnover. That game was one of the major turning points in the season as it halted the positive momentum from a good string, and finding ways to lose in the final minutes became a pattern for for the next 10 -15 games. Those 2 points, plus the 1 point lost to Tampa (when they lost to Tampa in the final minute of regulation on a Lecavalier goal), and 1 point lost to New Jersey a couple of weeks ago when it appear they were headed to overtime represents the tie they could have had with the Bruins this morning. While disappointed since mid November, I'm hoping the playoff absence 3 yrs in a row will force MLSE to hire a truely experienced hockey executive to give this franchise the makeover it needs. As I said before, they need to establish a blue print outlining the style of play, get a coach that implements a system which fits the style of play, and then draft or acquire the personnel with the necessary attributes to play that way. The best teams in the league each have a style of play and perpetuates it over many iterations. The players and coaches may come and go, but the team's style and character are constant and delivers the best opportunity for success over time. (See New Jersey, Detroit, and Habs until the the early 80's)
  74. DT . from Canada writes: My pleasure Paul. I know you are a little slower south of the border.
  75. j q from Canada writes: Cochrane,

    That rant reflects more yourself than anyone else. According to you and other like minded leaf haters, trolls and wannabees, us Leaf fans have a pathological reason for our unwavering committment to the team and therefore, these blogs. So, what's your excuse for wasting your time reading and posting to this blog when there is absolutely nothing of worth?
  76. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Much slower. I'm weighed down with all that good food from the ACC and it's hot south of the border. Thanks again. That's all for today. I have to hurry back to my trailer and brush my tooth. My wife (1st cousin,of course) wants me to watch The Price Is Right with her. Ya'll come back now. We'll put some grits on for 'ya. After all DT, you sound like you might be kin.
  77. Howard Young from Canada writes: Paul I. Nice.
  78. Kevin Cochrane from Clear Lake, Manitoba, Canada writes: jq if you had some iq you would realize that I am tired of the Toronto media picking this team apart from October through to April, oh and a few so called Leaf fans that bore us to no end about who should be traded. They are just another NHL team, ultimately, and the microscopic is getting a little tired.
  79. Jorly fuster from Canada writes: As this was a must win game for the Leafs it was natural for them to lose. You cannot count on this hockey team to come through in the clutch, you never can.
  80. j q from Canada writes: Cochrane,

    Agreed. My apologies.
  81. DT . from Canada writes: Oh Paul! Did I strike a nerve? I hope I've provided a little outlet for you to vent your frsutrations with life.

    I'm glad you're married. To be honest, I figured you weren't into chicks, and can only assume you chose your cousin because your pops married your sister.
  82. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: DT- We are a little slower south of the border. What are "frsutrations" ? I'd ask dad but he's busy putting the cars up on the cee-ment blocks. Are you sure you're not kin? You remind me a lot of my cousin Luddy. He's a good old boy.
  83. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Howard Young- Thanks for the ACC menu info. I thought the burgers were made from Screw-yu beef.
  84. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: I see the vultures have landed and are even mouthier than usual.

    Expected I guess.

    My favourites are the ones who choose to whine about the CBC and other media coverage of the Leafs..... yet they show up... watch the games, read the media coverage and comment in their comment sections.... thus perpetuating the very thing they complain about.

    Keep it up tools..... you're doing a great job.
  85. King 99 from Canada writes: Proud Canadian. I notice from your previous postings that you are an Ottawa fan that seems to enjoy poking fun at the Leaf posters. Are you here for concrete talks or rubbing salt? I would hope it's the former and not the latter. be that as it may it's fairly easy to surmize that Tucker and Blake could be back being that they just signed. Specially Blake. Nobody will take him. Kubina will be gone. Thanks to his stellar play of late, and moreso because of the socalled mixup at the deadline. McCabe will be gone to the Island but for the Islanders to eat that contract the Leafs won't get much in return. If you can get Sutton(that's possible) that would be an upgrade in my books. He's more of a stay at homer but lite years ahead in the tuff dept. They'll keep Nikky because he's a good starting point(so said Cliff). Now they're not in the Stamkos Cup BUT that doesn't mean that they can't package a deal for L.A.'s pick IF they do win the lottery. Maybe Toskala would be part of that package. I could see that happening.
  86. Jude Hannaford from Canada writes: Condolences Leaf fans, It would have been quite nice to see them make the show, a Habs-Leafs first rounder would have been great. Sadly the next two Sats will have to do. Just a note to my fellow Habs fans, it's one thing to kick a guy when he is on the way down, but once he's there....

    Vive Les Canadiens
  87. brian turner from scarborough, Canada writes: You know; I've seen this in other sports as well. A team is ( in essence) facing elimination and they come out " flat"! They lose and they're gone and they are flat? That is not the attitude that any winning team will have.
    Bye the bye-intersting scouting- last trophy winner for the Leafs ( I think it was either 64 or 66 - Britt Selby top rookie. Norris?-none;scoring?-nada.
    If they have plans- scouting ( and keeping their choices) would be a good place to start.

    Hope springs eternal ( It's all we've got :-)
  88. Hap Stokes from Canada writes: Henry Allen from East Bank, Don River, Canada writes:
    Scott Loucks, your chauvinistic love of the Leafs remains steadfast. By chauvinistic, I mean the pure sense of the word, which is derived from one Nicolas Chauvin. Chauvin, despite being wounded some 17 times in battles the service of Napoleon Bonaparte, remained fiercely loyal, never wavered.
    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Henry you forgot to mention to Scott that Chauvin was detested by his fellow noblemen for treating his wife and daughters so chivalrously. He set a bad example for all us husbands to follow ever since. He even held the chairs and coats/doors for his ladies. Now why ohh why would the Feminists Femi-nazis denigrate males by calling us chauvinistic? Could that be a compliment or an insult?

    Anyway Scott, put me in your camp of admirers also.
    You are truly a FAN buddy.
    A true chauvinistic Maple Leaf follower. Do or Die
    Keep it up Scott, it's good for your team.
  89. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: King99.... Proud Canadian is being sincere... his wife is a diehard Leaf fan.

    PC... You asked me way back why I am so hard on Blake... you feel he give 100 percent all the time.

    What I see in Blake is a puck hog who is selfish.... he is embarrassed because he isn't scoring 30 goals... so he throws lame wrist shots at the goalies ... he rarely passes... he loses the puck when entering the zone instead of getting it deep. He is very weak in his own end and gives the puck away way too much to ever be on the ice when the game is on the line... Other than that? I love him.

    The only way King99 to get rid of Blake is to waive him. Then may then have a chance at finding another team that wants him.... recalling him and the other team claims him for half his salary (2m).

    I don't think they will get rid of both Kubina and McCabe... based on last nights game I'd be really happy if it was McCabe.

    Cheers.
  90. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Kevin Cochrane from Clear Lake, Manitoba, Canada writes: jq if you had some iq you would realize that I am tired of the Toronto media picking this team apart from October through to April, oh and a few so called Leaf fans that bore us to no end about who should be traded. They are just another NHL team, ultimately, and the microscopic is getting a little tired.

    ------------------------------------------

    So what are you really saying Kevin? Leaf fans all over Canada want to read stories about their team. Leaf fans love to discuss their team... that is somehow wrong? What oh mighty Kevin are we supposed to discuss on a LEAF thread? They may well be just another NHL team to you.... but there are people all over the world that disagree with you.

    btw.... glad to hear that our converstions about trades and the team in general bore you.... So howcome you keep coming back and reading them?
  91. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Hap Stokes;

    I'm pretty sure that Henry Allen was taking the mickey out of me.... hence the fact that I ignored the original comment.

    Not quite sure ... but I don't think you meant it the same way.

    Chauvinism; excessive and unreasonable patriotism, similar to jingoism.

    So therefore I will say thank you Hap Stokes.... and FU Henry.... just because my Leafs season has now reached its inevitable conclusion...I won't be "going away"... I will watch all the playoffs... and watch the Cup being presented for the 44th time since I started watching..... oh and comment on all the Playoff threads to my hearts content.

    Cheers

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