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Leafs stay alive in playoff race

DAVID SHOALTS

Globe and Mail Update

Latest comment posted at 10:43 PM EST 22/03/08

Toronto fought back from a two-goal deficit against Ottawa to win 5-4 on Saturday night ...Read the full article

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  1. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Great game to watch... unfortunately... Boston and Montreal are in a 3 pointer.
  2. Jake ---- from Canada writes: And Ottawa fans think they have a chance at a cup.

    The most disgusting part of this game was watching Heatly flop around on the ice trying to get a call. It sickens me to think that this is what our game is coming to. Ottawa should be ashamed.

    Also was this game at the ACC because it seems like there were more Leaf fans then Sens fans. I guess that is what happens when you are canadas team.
  3. G MACK from Toronto, Canada writes: Hey Scot,
    I posted this earlier as I couldn't wait and love to see the Sens lose (arrogance).

    OK...where to begin?
    Currently the Leafs (sorry the Marlies) are winning 5-4 and are embarassing the SENS!!! I don't care if the Leafs even end up losing, as they've proved how much the Sens have tanked since November.
    ALFIE is getting Booooooed AT HOME, but you guys will never admit you have poor fan support...what does it take?
    HEATLEY was called for diving (what a joke!) and also got his bell rung by Tlusty (remember him sens fans - the GAY GUY you'll made fun of?). Tlusty scored a PRETTY goal as well!
    Fischer just skates like a guy on a sugar high and can't finish a play if his life depended on it. He's great, but not when he's frustrated.
    Spezza - whining 'he dropped his gloves first man?', while Coach 'Spits' just looks like his head's about to pop off! God stop now...I can't stop smiling!!!!!!!! :)
    Does anyone know why Gerber was so upset? Couldn't see anything?

    That's all for now...just had to get that out! How does it go?
    BAWAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!!!
  4. Shane DeMerchant from Canada writes: Had to laugh at Alfie flailing at the end. He may have more of a scoring touch but I would take Sundin over Alfie anyday purely based on his class. You will never see Sundin windmilling at the defense after a tight loss.
  5. j wilson from vancouver, Canada writes: Maybe the Sens are looking for a shot at Stamkos.
  6. Montgomery C. Burns from Springfield, Canada writes: Two good games by the Leafs, games I believed they would lose.

    Florida wins and Boston loses in SO, so Bruins are ahead by 4 points with a game in hand. It should be a good home and home with the Bs and I'm predicting a split.
  7. G MACK from Toronto, Canada writes: Spezza looked like JEFFREY BUTTLE out there!!!
  8. G MACK from Toronto, Canada writes: Montgomery...you're probably right which sucks, but I'll hold my breath for now!
  9. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Good playoff hockey tonight - although livid that my team lost.

    Goaltending is not the problem with this team, team defence is. Too many give aways and not enough simple plays to move it forward.

    Most used phrase by Bob Cole tonight 'McCabe/Redden gives the puck away at the blue line'.

    The two of them could be a great pairing of Wal-Mart greeters.
  10. lost ontarian from Canada writes: Ok...time to act...Sens management should get off their butts and fire the coach, shake things up, make a statement...Whoops....my bad..did that already...now what? Beaten by the Marlies?
  11. Natalie R from Canada writes: What an amazing game! I don't think anyone can say that the Leafs don't have determination, edged on by desperation of course. But Stajan, Kubina, Wellwood, and BLAKE...who actually passed the puck which resulted in a GOAL! Good for them, I hope they rest well for Tuesday, Toskala looked a little drained beginning.

    The Sens are sore losers, jumping on the Leafs at the end.
  12. Doktor David from London, Canada writes: Wow, what a hockey game... and I said it last night and I'll say it again: the better team, at least for tonight, won.

    Mind you, there has been many comments in the past about the Sens needing to wear skirts; I have to tell you Toronto is one soft team - hopefully they'll find some players with grit come the draft/free agent season. Then again, little Jason Blake smoked a few guys tonight and Kronvall's one hit was a beauty. Unfortunately just not enough of them doing it.

    It also a mystery to me with what is up with the Sens big line - they virtually disappeared after the first period. There was some commentary a month or so back that the Senators big three have poor work ethic - well, they do appear to coast through much of the game.

    Regardless... the Leafs win!

    Cheers!
  13. Montgomery C. Burns from Springfield, Canada writes: I still like Washington and Buffalo's chances of grabbing the last spots over Philly and Boston (while the Leafs have played well as of late, it's simply too late in the season to jump over the teams ahead of them).

    The picture should be clearer by the end of next weekend.
  14. Jake ---- from Canada writes: Where are all the sens fans....

    Gotta tip my hat off to the marlies, they played one hell of a game.
  15. lost ontarian from Canada writes: It was so darned clear again tonight that the Sens lack that intangible emotional grit. That Gary Roberts determination, a composed physical presence. Toughness isn't jumping a kid for a legal bodycheck. It isn't waiting til after the final whistle to get physical. It's bearing down and taking the hit, the blocked shot when it counts and the Sens do not have that presence and really (Zdeno aside) have never had it. Murray might as well go on E-bay and see if he can buy those pink sticks the leafs were auctioning off. Where the heck was the big line? the return of Neil?
  16. Archibald Leach from Canada writes: The Leafs keep winning but they never will make the playoffs, there are just too many teams in front of them. All the teams are not going to tank, and that is what is required. Hence they are just wasting their draft position, but what else is new. In the last 15 years they have had 2 top 5 picks, Roberto Loungo and Scott Niedermayer, opps, sorry they traded away those picks.
    Toronto is on a good run, but they are playing over there heads and the organization needs a huge talent infusion to be successful long term.

    Ottawa on the hand, reminds of Philly a couple years back when Philly had a talented team but a huge goaltending problem. What a mess. Ottawa has loads of talent from the net out but they have got some real head cases. One of the worse decisions they ever made was to let Chara go ( of course Toronto perferred to sign Brian McCabe).
  17. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: The Senators are a good team when they keep it simple (this helps Wade understand things). That was the game plan for the first two periods. Then they try to put on a show (another poster mentioned Buttle's performance). This is where their game collapses.

    Spare me the highlight reel stuf - I want to see basic, well executed hockey.

    Which the Leafs have been doing for their past 15 games or so, shame about the first 60.
  18. Natalie R from Canada writes: Everyone was anticipating and dreading the return of Neil and the big three line. What happened? Did I miss them, I hardly saw Neil out there.
  19. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: I thought the Leafs were headed for big trouble during the first 10 minutes, but they come out down by one. Sens let up at start of the 2nd. Gerber serving up massive rebounds, but he did make some outstanding saves. Both Toskala and Gerber should take their fancy composite, 14-piece goalie sticks and plant them right between their 'D''s eyes. The Ontario Workers Safety Board has determined the safest workplace in the province is in front of a Leaf or Sens net.Kubina makes one play at the end of the game and gets a star. unbelievable! He and McCabe, Kaberle and the Ottawa 'D' should be turfed out ASAP.
  20. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Mr. Burns.... that is exactly what we said last week.... and the week before....

    Picture is clear alright.. clear as mud.

    Washington has two each against Tampa, Florida and Carolina..... Mail in the 4 points against Tampa ... but the other four could be interesting.

    Carolina has 2 against Tampa and 1 against Atlanta... mail in those 6 points and Carolina looks good to win the South East.

    Bruins have 2 each against Leafs, Sabres, Sens... and another against NJ... Don't like their chances.

    Buffalo have 2 against Boston, 1 against the Leafs, a couple against both Montreal and Ottawa.

    Flyers have 2 each against NYI, Devils and Penguins... and 1 against the Rangers.

    Needless to say with the schedules listed above... almost everything can change.

    Cheers
  21. Verona Raven from United States writes: Also was this game at the ACC because it seems like there were more Leaf fans then Sens fans. I guess that is what happens when you are canadas team.

    Actually the Habs do that in the ACC with all the Ex-montrealers that drown out the leafs fans.

    The Habs are Canadas team...with SUCCESS to back it up.
  22. Jimmee J. from tecumseh, Canada writes: Heart, lots of heart. The Leafs showed it, Senators lacked it. If the Leafs get in the post season, watch out, they have the hottest netminder in the league right now and the team is clicking.
    Very enjoyable game and I must admit, it was great kicking Senator a$$!!
  23. lost ontarian from Canada writes: Hey...just wondering...it's gonna be hard for Greg Gilbert to make any excuses when the NHL season ends and the top 6 or 7 Marlies return to the roster. Heck, they keep beating the Kanata Sens and better not lose to Binghamton Senators.
  24. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Paul I - very good analysis of the goaltending problems in Ottawa and Toronto.

    I think Murray should shuffle the defence around, strip Redden of the A and make him watch a couple of games from the press box.
  25. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Mr. Scot Loucks clarifies things as he usually does. I don't think this playoff race will be settled until the final night of the season. There is no way the Leafs are giving up now. Stay tuned for the real March Madness. I'm really glad I have the Hockey Package.
  26. lost ontarian from Canada writes: C'mon Mariposa..if we are going to retag the sweaters maybe the big 'C' should be moved along as well. Leadership dictates the captain should be noticed down the stretch in an important game. Heck, it might be argued that Sundin's absence played a bigger motivational part than Alfie's presence. sad statement isn't it?
  27. Verona Raven from United States writes: The Leafs still suck....Canada and...yes...The United States know it.

    And toronto cant hold New Yorks jockstrap as a city.
  28. Jonathon Goodman from Havana, Cuba writes: For a back to back game this was outstanding.

    After the first period I guess many of us were all holding our breath wondering WTH is going on. But the Leafs didn't dissappoint....great to see the kids playing playoff like hockey tonight.

    My non-scientific observations after tonight...

    - Moore impressed again - he will be signed for sure.
    - Vesa kept his head and pulled it off
    - White & Kronwall were standouts - overshadowing McCabe and Kaberle (again!)
    - Kubina is making a case to stay (versus McCabe)
    - Stajan and Steen are proving the critics wrong
    - Wellwood and Blake were actually pretty good tonight - case to stay?
    - Poni performed
    - New kids had fun

    I like what I saw tonight.

    Cheers,
    JG.
  29. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Lost ontarian - disagree about the C as I don't see another ready to step it up. Which answers your last point at 10:28.
  30. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Great thread (troll-free line)- Mariposa Belle: I don't know if the Sens have a goaltending coach, but they need one for Gerber quickly. He has some fundamental problems that need correction prior to the playoffs.He might even have an equipment problem the way shots boom off his pads right back into the slot. Toskala's biggest problems are the inert bags of jelly blocking his view.
  31. Shane DeMerchant from Canada writes: Jonathon, I agree about Moore, I would like to see he and devereaux play together on a shutdown line.
  32. Philip Ferguson from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada writes: Way to go Leafs!!

    You know, in the past month I've heard a lot of people (Archibald Leach included) say that it's pointless for the Leafs to even try to win at this point because they should 'try' for a better draft pick. The Leafs have a lot more class and heart than that to start throwing games away. They may not make the playoffs this season, but us Leaf fans will still be able to proudly cheer for our team, knowing that they're giving it all they have.

    GO LEAFS GO!!!!
  33. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Guess who played the most minutes for the Leafs tonight... anyone?

    It was Ian White with 25 plus minutes.

    The kid line got their regular 3 minutes each... but Wellwood managed 2 points in his 13 minutes.... and a minus 1 rating.

    Cherry made a valid point after the game.... would Steen and Stajan be getting the minutes they got tonight if Sundin and Antropov were in the line up? Steen had 22 and Stajan almost 25 minutes..... Young players need ice time. Does this mean I think Steen and Stajan are top 6 forwards? Not convinced yet.... but they certainly have put on a show over the last two nights.

    Tlusty also played well in his 13 minutes.... my guess is that Wellwood only got slightly more ice time due to the power play.

    The one thing that stood out in the first period was just how soft the Leafs are..... Me thinks if Ottawa had kept up the heavy hitting they would have won handily.

    Cheers
  34. Jake ---- from Canada writes: The Sens would be a contender if they had Toskala, every Sens fan would agree. I don't think The leafs allow extra corricular sniffing in the dressing room.
  35. G MACK from Toronto, Canada writes: Verona - what???????????????
  36. lost ontarian from Canada writes: Mariposa...Can see the point a bit but would then conclude that we might be arguing the same point. If it's true that noone could take on that role..sad statement indeed considering we all thought this was a Cup bound roster at the beginning of the year.

    Raven person...never understood that cliche...'can't hold their jockstrap'??? Cuz others are lined up wanting to do so?
  37. The Seeker from Toronto, Canada writes: Verona, the Leafs suck as much as you do.

    Canada, and yes, the US know it as well.

    Go Leafs Go!!!
  38. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Paul - Gerber's coach is the same one Ray has. This is likely a problem.

    Let's think about this... one of the fastest starts in league history has allowed a sub 500 team in 2008 to make the playoffs, while a team so bad everyone was demanding it be blown up in November has played gritty playoff hockey for 6 weeks and will miss the playoffs.

    Game 1 is as valuable as Game 82.

    The Leafs seem to have become a hard working club, while the Sens are coasting.

    Back to goalie coaching, and goalies for the Sens. It's time to bring Razor back into the nets - Murray has tinkered with the forwards, the defence is what it is, so what else is there to change? Gerber is playing well, but you can see he is frustrated by his defencemen. Nothing else has turned around this team - time for Razor to make a couple of starts.
  39. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Verona- We had some hockey talk going until you decided to display your dual degrees in City Planning and English Literature. Hockey please. Your post just proves you are not worthy to carry our jockstraps.
  40. Jake ---- from Canada writes: The Seeker from Toronto, Canada writes: Verona, the Leafs suck as much as you do.

    Her nickname was Hoover 2000 in college.
  41. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Verona Raven from United States writes: Also was this game at the ACC because it seems like there were more Leaf fans then Sens fans. I guess that is what happens when you are canadas team.

    Actually the Habs do that in the ACC with all the Ex-montrealers that drown out the leafs fans.

    The Habs are Canadas team...with SUCCESS to back it up...
    and
    Verona Raven from United States writes: The Leafs still suck....Canada and...yes...The United States know it.

    And toronto cant hold New Yorks jockstrap as a city.

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

    All you need now is to learn how to type a Bwahaha Verona.

    -----------------
    You are incorrect (quelle surprise) about Montreal fans in Toronto. The reason there are so many leaf fans showing up for both Buffalo and Ottawa games is because their season ticket holders have 3 tier pricing dear.

    Both Buffalo and Ottawa sell those top tier tickets to Leaf fans.... Cheapsters that they are.

    All Toronto tickets are the same price (expensive).

    Absolutely never do Habs fans drown out a chant of GO LEAFS GO in the ACC. Certainly nothing close to what we heard last night in Buffalo and tonight in Ottawa.
  42. Robert Lepage from Canada writes: Jake,

    I am sure you have heard the saying, 'it takes one to know one'. Do you carry tissues in your pocket for that all too frequent nose bleed? You have no proof, admit it and don't be a whore for rumours.
  43. lost ontarian from Canada writes: Darn....As much as I dislike Emery and everything about the punk...I feel he has to be given a start at this point. For the team, not for him.
  44. Fester Boyle from Bert's, Barbados writes: The Sens were rested with 4 days off, the Leafs played the night before. The Leafs were without Sundin and Andropov and the Sens had a 4-2 lead. An inexcusable loss.
  45. Hap Stokes from Canada writes: Sorry to see 'Canada's Team' win.--Holy sheeet if they actually did make the playoffs, then HNIC would not cover many of the other teams. And trust me then you would hear about protests especially from the wealthy Calgary/Vanc hospitality industry, not to mention a few million cranky 'home viewing' western hockey fans. Which surprise to the CBC most do not give a shiiit about the Maple Leafs.

    Hats of to CBC's Jim Hughson (and crew) they called the Oilers/Avs crazy PM game in Edmonton then hopped a private bird and flew 180 miles to Calgary to call the Flames/Minny night game.

    Calling 2 NHL games in two different cities, does anybody know if that ever happened before?
  46. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: Mariposa Belle- You have an excellent point. better to find out now if Emery Air Freight has anything left or is he totally shot. Can you imagine tossing him in a playoff game after Gerber melts down?
  47. lost ontarian from Canada writes: C'mon Hap...even with the leafs out no western team is going prime time! Sens or Habs will get first billing on CBC as long as they are in the run. As much as I would vote to blow up the CBC empire and get them the heck out of the sports market, I support their decision to let the ratings decide their schedule.
  48. Rob C from T.O., Canada writes: Well, I called a close game and gave the Sens a slight edge - But only because Sundin, Antropov and Colaiacovo were out and the game was in Kanata - otherwise, as usual, this was easy to call. The Leafs were in a 'must' in and the senators can't win those games.

    Lots of offensive ability on that team (so they say anyway). No heart, no spine - 'Oh lets start a fight, after we've already lost' - That's the Krusty style - He tried to Clune Neidermayer at the end of game five - FIGHT DURING THE GAME, YOU LOSERS!
  49. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Hap Stokes... according to another article buried deep in the Globe Hockey pages.... it has never been done before in two different NHL cities.

    It has been done in the Olypmics and Worlds... but same arenas.

    Cheers.

    Mariposa, Jake etc.....

    Although Gerber gave up some serious rebounds.. as I have commented on all year... I still would stick with Gerber.
    I don't think either goalie put on a clinic this evening... both let in at least one they would like back.

    Your Sens quit at 4 to 2.... they had the game won.

    Cute plays in the neutral zone cost them two goals... They should sit back and watch the replay of this game over and over.. the Leafs schooled them on simple .... get the puck out hockey. (And the leafs in the first gave away the puck more than I have seen them do in weeks).

    btw... can't blame Gerber for the Stajan goal... who on this planet thought Blake would actually pass the puck :)

    Cheers
  50. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Fester - better remove the furniture and pad the walls at Bert's. If this team continues to play at this level the Sens fans will be in an ugly mood at the beginning of April.

    Deservedly so. I agree with you, inexcusable to blow a two goal lead heading into the third.
  51. lost ontarian from Canada writes: LOL Scot..was sitting back watching the 2 on 1 develop and thinking how gerber better close his eyes since Blake would just hit him with the puck and....darned if the pass didn't catch everyone by surprise and cudos to stajan for being optimistic enough to think Blake would pass. Must also admit the Leafs moved the puck out of their zone fairly well in the last 2 periods, some glitches, but better than the early part of the season. I disagree though that they should stick with Gerber. Nothing else has worked and as coach, murray, simply has to do something. Unless he has another trick or two under his hat, the goalie swap is next.
  52. Rob C from T.O., Canada writes: I loved all the Blue & White at the game...pathetic. Brutal, shameful & embarrassing....Leaf Nation truely rules, does it not? I maintain the team belongs in KW or Hamilton...when the wheels fall off and they really start losing in bunches, you'll be able to shoot a cannon thru that dump. (Actually I guess they already have started losing in bunches)
  53. Larfing Outloud from Virgin Islands (British) writes: Nope, the Leafs aren't going anywhere this year...but it surely feels good to beat this team, and on a regular basis.

    OTTAWA, smell the fear...
  54. Proud Canadian from Canada writes: Paul I from Rochester. No TV where I was. Out in the garage, big suckin garage that holds big farm equipment. Good time. Lots of good laughs with good friends. Sens lose another one, Leafs live another day. Dung Bucket Joe making statements again on something he knows absolutely nothing about. Cumon down IS 75. At night. Cumon down. Scotty, good posts, hey, cant win em all. But like I said, the Sens are going to the playoffs, for how long, who knows. Maybe long, maybe not. Anyways, gotta get some beddy beddy, back to OHIO tomorrow, Easter Sunday in Ohio. Gotta do whatcha gotta do. Cheers all
  55. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: lost ontarian.... back in the days when the Leafs were playing inconsistent on again off again losing hockey.... they changed their style.

    They put far more emphasis on the forwards coming back and when necessary collapsing in front of their goalie.

    To steal a quote from tonights game... 'good defensive positioning leads to good offensive chances'.

    I saw too many Senators heading into offensive mode too soon.

    (sidebar; what a goal by Phaneuf).

    Murray needs to make his forwards more accountable.. plain and simple.. IMHO.

    Cheers
  56. Robert Lepage from Canada writes: Rob C,

    I take it you did not watch the game then, eh? It was Fisher and McCabe who started the scrum. I didn't catch a good glimpse, but I think I saw a blue gloved hand give someone a face-wash; Fisher responded. Might have to check it out in the game summary, if they decide to show it, to get the answer.

    I'll revel in troll-hood for a moment (if nothing because the few leaf friends I have, those who have not jumped the bandwagon, are giving me grief and the clamouring, salivating mouths of one lunchbucket): It is quite a sad and pathetic thing when your team cannot make it to the playoffs but you obtain pleasure in accepting mediocrity. Short memories? Quite likely. I doubt many of you recall the frequent spankings the Sens delivered last season and the one before (ala 7-0, 8-0, 8-2, ad nauseum). It is entertaining to hear the hoots and cries 'Sens Suck' coming from supporters of a team that is much worse off.

    Sorry, had to get that off my back.
    Scot, I'm sorry you had to hear that.

    The Sens played a decent game. Meszaros gift wrapped a goal, the Leafs caught the momentum and seized the opportunity. Kudos to Blake and Stajan for taking advantage of it.
  57. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Scot - agreed - the current Sens have lost idea that the forwards also have to play defence. For some reason the Leafs have developed that, although too late to enter the playoffs.

    The Sens have a chance at Stanley when Spezza starts to backcheck, Redden makes a simple play to clear the zone and Fisher quits his Tasmaninan Devil role and starts to play smart, agressive hockey.

    On the Leaf side, they have been very impressive lately - but a third consecutive charge for ninth place gets you ... what?
  58. lost ontarian from Canada writes: Robert, I gather that was building up for a bit but let's remember the advice we the Sens have offered the leaf nation regularly...'Stop living in the past.' Last year is over and Sens fans can only measure success this year thru a Stanley Cup since those regional awards, like beating the neighbours, only merit attention in blogs. Darn..tired now..cheers all!
  59. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Robert Lepage.... np... as I have said before...it's tough being a Leaf fan.

    As for the end of game shenanigans.....

    I had it on PVR so I got to go back and watch it a couple times.... CBC didn't show it very well.

    Alfie actually went at McCabe from behind... after the horn. By the time they all got to the boards.. Fisher was there and the most involved.

    Cheers
  60. Shane DeMerchant from Canada writes: I think that tonight was probably indicative of what a playoff game will actually be like. Ottawa played well enough to win but they needed their goalie to steal it for them. I am not trying to say that Gerber was the only problem for them, but unless their goalie can steal them some games, as Toskala has been doing recently, the playoffs will be short for the sens.
  61. george simko from Canada writes: Kudos are in order for a great win.
    The venerable Sens are now history.Nostalgic supporters,
    now have their fond memories of last year to keep them
    warm. This latest win by the Leafs was of epic proportions,
    a Herculean effort,and demonstrated to knowledgeable
    hockey afficionados,that the Sens. swagger is now a passing
    fancy.This leaf juggernaut,should they meet,will dispel any
    rumours of their invincibility.The hypocrisy takes your breath
    away.The cold reality is that Sens supporters with their hubris
    fail to acknowledge,the game is over.
  62. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes:

    On the Leaf side, they have been very impressive lately - but a third consecutive charge for ninth place gets you ... what?

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

    Good question Mariposa. With any luck a new coach.... one who doesn't think Wozniewski and Gill should play in critical situations. One that can motivate players in October and November too.

    Maybe a couple tough wingers that don't just drop their gloves to lace their skates.

    Maybe a different mind set from players like Stajan, Steen, White and Stralman.... that hey... we can play in this league and be effective.

    Other than that.... not much except still excited fans and lots of ink.

    Cheers
  63. lost ontarian from Canada writes: And on that note George...it's obviously time to turn the blog over to the lunatic fringe..lol..good night
  64. Hap Stokes from Canada writes: Dion Phaneuf just scored an unassisted real high-lighter. With 4 Flames changing leaving Phaneuf one against 4 Minnies he grabbed the puck at the Flames face-off circle and went end to end against the entire Stars team and put the biscuit in the basket--1 to Zip Flames early 2nd.

    Bet 99% of the people in the C of U did not see that 'super play'.
  65. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: As for the end of the game 'scrum', it doesn't really matter who started it.

    By the way, as a former rugby player, the use of 'scrum' for these events falls short of the real thing.

    That said, it was an event for the fans - losing like the Sens did tonight - it was a combination of frustration on the players part and it helps send the ticket payers home slightly encouraged.

    What discouraged me the most about this game was Neil's first period hit on Bell. I thought it a good clean takeout in the corner, but because Bell was injured on the play (winded probably), Neil takes a boarding penalty.

    If they want to make this a non-contact sport, I'm ready to strap the old leather pads back on and have Scot and Robert Miller play in front of me with Martel managing.
  66. Jake ---- from Canada writes: The Sens are partying like rock stars, and they're not listening to music.

    Million dollar contracts lead to million dollar drug problems...ie Ray Emery
  67. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Hap Stokes..... check my post at 11:09 pm
  68. Charlotte Creamer from Halifax, Canada writes: 'They may not make the playoffs this season, but us Leaf fans will still be able to proudly cheer for our team, knowing that they're giving it all they have.' Jeesh -- if that's all it takes to make Leafs fans proud, that their team doesn't need to bring home Stanley or even make the playoffs just so long as 'they're giving it all they have', then why not bench the Marlies and hire Paul Maurice's son's tyke team to wear the blue and white? -- I've seen them in action, and boy, those 7- & 8-year-olds really give their all! For me, for a team to earn my loyalty (and money) as a fan, there has to be more than just the players playing their heart out in 'desperation', as one commentator above put it. Rather, they should be playing their heart out consistently and with consistent results. I'm not sure the Leafs have done that this year. They were too blase at the start of the season, and only really got serious after Fergie got fired. These guys (coach included)get paid a lot of money to play the WHOLE season, not just the final third of it. I think fans should raise the bar on what they find acceptable in their chosen teams. That's not to say I'm not partial to supporting a Toronto team, having lived in 'Oinktown' for almost 20 years. I just think we should be demanding more performance-wise right from the outset of the season. After all -- game tickets don't cost any less in October than they do in March.
  69. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: I don't know how it would work over an entire season, but I suspect that the Leaf faithful, given the current run of the team, would like to see all games worth three points. Win in regulation and you scoop all the points on the table.

    3 points for a regulation win - time to do it.
  70. Hap Stokes from Canada writes: lost ontarian from Canada writes: , I support their decision (meaning the CBC) to let the ratings decide their schedule.

    Maybe you are correct regarding which team to play on HNIC between East/West teams.--However:

    Are you forgetting 3 major things?

    (1) West is growing population much faster than the East.
    Do you know both Alberta & BC have a larger Pop than PQ already?
    And gaining fast on S. Ontario.

    (2) At present the best SIX NHL teams play in W. Conference.

    (3) And can you say O-I-L ($$$$) ??

    Talented Hockey Money = Higher Ratings than the CBC might think
  71. Craig From Calgary from Canada writes: At the end of the day, wouldn't it just be great to see a Canadian team win the cup?? GO (enter your favorite Canadian team here) GO!!!
  72. Jake ---- from Canada writes: Hap Stokes from Canada,

    Have you ever been to hockey game in Alberta when the leafs come to town the building is usually filled with leaf fans. See leaf nation knows no borders and we are pread out from coast to coast. Although I will never where my leafs Jersey on White Ave, that is a death sentence.

    Edmontonians are crazy. When I was out in Fort Mac we made a trip to edmonton and by the end of the night white ave was painted with blood.
  73. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Hap Stokes from Canada:

    The ratings actually spoke long ago, and they said that the Habs outdraw the Leafs on CBC's HNIC when they play nationally...

    You can come back home to Atlantic Canada now because the first place Habs are back on the tube here on Saturday nights here...

    Sweeeettttttt!

    Cheers.
  74. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Jake - thanks for your post informing us that Leafs Nation is spread out from coast to coast.

    The rest of us will sleep well knowing that every village has its idiot.
  75. lost ontarian from Canada writes: Hap...don't be ridiculous...'than they might think'. They aren't idiots. they don't think what the numbers are..they know. They don't televise according to demographics ten years from now but to commercial dollars today. C'mon!!!
  76. lost ontarian from Canada writes: Holy!! Even Mariposa has now resorted to name-calling. Does this mean the end of civilized blogging as we know it? mariposa..et tu? Don't tell me you are going to join the ridiculous fraternity that suggests that fans cannot or should not be able to pick the team they root for? Or maybe we should all just cheer for the winners which means all Ontario hickey fans need to look outside the provincial borders?
  77. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: lost ontarian.... me thinks it has something to do with Super Troll being MIA for the last week or so.

    We used to count on him to say something stupid.... every else is now just trying to fill the void.

    Cheers
  78. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Mariposa Belle:

    Did you ever think about how much revenue that a team can generate in merchandise sales if they could delude others into thinking they are the 'Nation's team?'

    At least, the Red Sox actually won the World Series before trying to declare their country the 'Red Sox nation.'
  79. lost ontarian from Canada writes: LOL--understood. i choose simply not to answer the Troll..Prefer dialogue.
  80. steve allan from Welland, Ontario, Canada writes: Oh the poor Leafs. Just enough to miss out on the draft lottery and not enough to make the playoffs. It pretty well sums up this franchise.
  81. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Keep the sticks on the ice, guys...

    Where was this team for the first sixty games of the season?
  82. steve allan from Welland, Ontario, Canada writes: -----(1) West is growing population much faster than the East.
    Do you know both Alberta & BC have a larger Pop than PQ already?
    And gaining fast on S. Ontario.-----

    I keep having to remind these people who live out west - YOU HAVE NO SUSTAINABLE VALUE-ADDED ECONOMY. BC's economy is 85% resources, mostly pulp, paper and lumber and Alberta doesn't have an economy based on human genius. It's all resources, exclusively oil and gas. When that resource is gone, you will be poorer than Sierra Leone.
  83. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Oh God! (Am I still allowed to say God in Canada?)

    Keep the sticks on the ice!

    Keep the politics off the sports threads!

    Where was this team for the first sixty games of the season?
  84. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Seriously, does anyone in TO ever notice that the Leafs seem to play more like a T-E-A-M when Matts is out... I also noticed this a few years ago when Alyn McCauley got a chance to step up to fill in for an injured Sundin...

    Is it just me -- as I notice that no other posters have commented on this on the Leafs' threads?
  85. Carl Hansen from Canada writes: What a crazy game. I listened to it while doing the dishes and the crowd cheered like mad every time there was a goal. I figured Ottawa was winning 7-2. Leafs fans are everywhere.
  86. Hap Stokes from Canada writes: Jake ---- from Canada writes: Hap Stokes from Canada,

    Have you ever been to hockey game in Alberta when the leafs come to town the building is usually filled with leaf fans.

    You might have said when the Canucks come to town as well.

    Thousands of rich Newfies (mostly Leaf fans) in Fort Mac
    At least 1500 people from my little BC town alone (all Kanuk fans).
    So many Ontario people in the patch they could have their own team
    Yup lots of fans for everybody, all working in Ft Murray.

    Eastern people are moving west and bringing their teams with them.

    And yes Jake been to both Cowtown and Garlic games too. Always cheered for the Nuks but my son-in-law (an Oiler fan) doesn't like it
  87. Robert Lepage from Canada writes: Lost Ontarian and Scout,

    My brief lapse in reason was a result of a few months of fun-filled prodding from my friends (which I can handle, it is all in jest) and a horrible realisation that there are some individuals on this forum who support a certain blue and white team that do humanity a grave disservice by drawing breath. I believe both Mariposa and I came to similar realisations.
  88. Hap Stokes from Canada writes: steve allan from Welland,
    Steve we moved here from Eugene/Seattle/Panama City/ Sherbrooke/Europe/Halifax/Toronto and a dozen other places around the world.--Was originally a farm kid from NS.

    Either you are pulling our western jeans or perhaps you vote Liberal.
    Edmonton has a huge R & D and so does Vanc. Both leading edge Hi Tech and worth billions. Do Medical (break throughs) & Auto research

    4 cows escaped in T.O. yesterday. Ever heard of the biggest Ranch in the world 'The Gang Ranch' here in BC. Bet they ship 4000 cattle a week to feed eastern folks, and other Ranches probably ship more than that in total.--Ohh I think the western economy will do just OK for the next few hundred years.--Better be, because by that time all your great great grandchildren will be living here singing:

    February Showers
    Bring March Flowers.

    Congrats on your Leafs win tonight.--Don't worry about the Leafs losing Stamkos this will be a Bumper crop right into the 3rd round
  89. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Seriously, does anyone in TO ever notice that the Leafs seem to play more like a T-E-A-M when Matts is out...

    Have touched on it Robert.... both in previous threads and this one.

    Don Cherry mentioned it tonight.... it has a lot to do with the ice time the youngsters are receiving, the position they get to play (Steen at centre)... the power play and penalty killing time.

    As an addendum to that.... some players seem to think they don't have to work as hard.... cause Mats is there.... he will take care of it.

    As for where this team was for the first 55 games.... (not 60 :) )

    Well this team doesn't have the Raycroft experiment anymore. It doesn't have Wozniewski and Gill on the ice at the end of a close game. (How many points did they lose in the final 5 minutes of hockey games?)

    This team is giving Tucker the minutes he got last year.... he is now effective again.

    This team isn't counting on Wellwood and Bell coming back to save the day.

    Question for Leaf fans and haters alike... if you watched a Leaf game this year.... did you see a better check than the one Kronwall laid out??? Didn't think so.

    Cheers
  90. Howard Young from Canada writes: My Sens didn't deserve to win the game, they should have locked it down when they were up 4 - 2, but they started coasting. The Sens had the right formula in the 1st period and part of the 2nd, and should have stuck to it. ................................................................... Murray, don't even think about putting Emery in nets! ............................... Good on the Leafs for not giving up and getting the win. However, all this talk about Leafs having heart and grit is a bit humourous. Where was this heart and grit during the majority of the regular season? If it had existed, the team would already be in position to go to the playoffs as opposed to making their normal last minute mad dash. ................... Before, you start flaming, I read many a comment from Leaf fans who said this team had no heart when they were stinking in up this year. I guess you have a couple band wagoneers yourself. ..................................................................Despite the usual last minute dash, I hope you don't forget to keep your collective foots on the throat of Peddie and MLSE to make some material changes.
  91. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Hap Stokes.... people have been moving west for decades. When I worked in Vancouver in the early 80's everybody there seemed to be from Toronto.

    As far as I can remember the CBC covers ALL Canadian teams during the playoffs.... if there are conflicts CBC gives up the coverage to TSN or Sportsnet or RDS.

    I know I watch all the games and don't recall missing very many due to CBC decisions.

    Thought the vote liberal comment was funny.. I keep telling Leaf fans that that is the real reason the ROC hates Toronto.

    Agree with you that the depth in this years draft is great. Just hoping some of the Leafs 'scouting?' department actually saw them play.

    Cheers
  92. Howard Young from Canada writes: Loucks, searching the mental memory bank, if I recall correctly, living in the GTA I was not able to watch the Sens play if the Leafs were on during the same night, that is, unless they were playing against each other. ----------------------------- I'm awake right now watching the Malaysian Grand Prix, what's your excuse?
  93. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Howard Young;

    Based on their performances over the last 2 months.... I would say that a good many of them have heart.

    I would never suggest they have grit. They are the softest Leaf team I personally have ever seen.

    As for your Senators... I agree totally and stated so above. They were hitting and controlling the game.... but at 4 to 2.... they thought they had it won.

    Cheers
  94. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Vampire hours Howard... watching golf :)
  95. Howard Young from Canada writes: Scot: The DVR, it's a blessing and a curse at the same time. :)
  96. John Stanton from Canada writes: lost ontarian said it best: ' It was so darned clear again tonight that the Sens lack that intangible emotional grit. That Gary Roberts determination, a composed physical presence. Toughness isn't jumping a kid for a legal bodycheck. It isn't waiting til after the final whistle to get physical. It's bearing down and taking the hit, the blocked shot when it counts and the Sens do not have that presence and really (Zdeno aside) have never had it.'

    This has been a true statement for almost a decade. I can hardly comment on the after the whistle stuff as this is typical. I love watching players who go after other guys WHEN the ref is holding them.... 'Hold me ref'...'I'm going to get you'...'You got me ref?'..'why I ought to!'

    No defence, no heart, no chance for the Senators in the playoffs. I predicted that from the beginning of the season. They look tired from the long run last year and management (Murray) took too long to address the Emery situation.
  97. tweety pie from London, Canada writes: It's always so nice when the Leafs beat those nasty sens.
    Way to go baby's!