Skip navigation

 Login or Register | Member Centre

From rinks to links

DAVID SHOALTS

From Friday's Globe and Mail

Latest comment posted at 10:25 PM EST 27/03/08

It's official. Defeat in Boston gives Toronto a third straight year of booking tee times this postseason instead of flights and hotels ...Read the full article

This conversation is closed

  1. Daniel Liu from Toronto, Canada writes: Decisions, decisions.

    Leafs can play the spoiler.

    Do they want Montreal or Ottawa to win the division?
  2. Midtown Bob from Toronto, Canada writes: Alright hockey fans, clear your chanting voices as we dust off one of the all-time favourite Leaf Chants!!! READY???

    GO LEAFS
    GO GOLFING!!

    GO LEAFS
    GO FISHING!!

    GO LEAFS
    GO PLAY TEXAS HOLD'EM!!

    GO LEAFS
    GO SIT IN FRONT OF YOUR 102' PLASMA SCREEN AND WATCH THE HOCKEY PLAYOFFS!!

    repeat
  3. Don Bryant from Calgary, Canada writes: Okay, everyone. Repeat after me. Maple Laffs suck. Maple Laffs suck. MAPLE LAFFS SUCK!
  4. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: last place is out of the question.
  5. Baad Daddy from Still Cold Here, Canada writes: The only thing better than having the Leafs miss the playoffs would be to see them in overtime of game seven of the Cup final at home and have one of them knock the puck in their own net and lose. I'd pay $19.67 to see that. I hate them.
  6. Doktor David from London, Canada writes: Obviously the better team, for the last two games, won. Good luck to all the other teams in the playoffs. As for me and my team: see you next year.

    Cheers! <- note: © SL =]

    PS It has been a pleasure participating in these conversations. Look forward to our next one...
  7. David H from Calgary, Canada writes: Hey G&M, TSN and Sportsnet, the Laffs are MATHEMATICALLY done. How are you going to spin this one to get more stories out? I know, spend the next two weeks discussing why the Laffs missed the playoffs. Pathetic!
  8. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: Well leaf fans....it's over for this year.

    It's been frustrating watching and fun debating and chatting with all of you about the leafs. Scott keep the posts coming as we debate the daily news on this team's rebuilding and sorry to the rest of you but it will be daily coverage!

    Leaf haters.....pick away. It's nothing new and its hardly original.

    Ok Rob Miller....I won't be cheering for your habs just like you would never cheer for my leafs. I wouldn't mind seeing them or another Canadian team go deep though.

    Looking forward to an exciting playoff!
  9. Proud Canadian from Canada writes: Mac GLG, don't go away mad, just go away.
  10. Allan Martel from Canada writes: They say it's not nice to kick someone when they are down, that you should instead give them a helping hand so that they can get back up on their feet, or even skates.

    So, I've sent in a team of grief counsellors for the Leaf Nation to help the rabid unthinking collective to get through the denial phase and into true grieving.

    Now what to expect next Saturday in Ottawa with nothiing but injured pride and bruised egos to play for. The Sens should play their 'B'team giving the big guns a rest in an effort to help this team regroup.

    As to who the Leafs dress for the game, who cares? Certainly not the Leafs judging by the lacklustre efforts over the past two games.

    When the going gets tough you can always count on the Leafs - to be mathematically eliminated that is. I'm looking closely to see if the Leafs can play so badly between now and the end of their again forshortened season that they will begin the campaign next year already eliminated from the playoffs.

    Oh - I've also sent in three tankerloads of Pepto Bismol.
  11. Larfing Outloud from Virgin Islands (British) writes: Daniel Liu from Toronto, Canada writes: 'Decisions, decisions. Leafs can play the spoiler. Do they want Montreal or Ottawa to win the division?'

    Good question Daniel.

    I'll take Montreal over some expansion team any day.
  12. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: This has been inevitable since November 30th. It took a little longer than most of us anticipated, so chalk that up to good goaltending and professional pride, both arriving too late - ingredients, if there are no drastic changes to the team and front office, will be repeated for a number of years.

    Now that the Leafs have been eliminated, the players can look forward to the World Championships - this is good news for Canada as there will be no Leafs selected for Team Canada.
  13. Pat Billings from CDN, Canada writes: I'll say it again...the only time this loser franchise has ever been able to compete in this league is by desperately outspending the rest of the league in trying to buy a cup. Without that advantage, they are a disgrace to the game and the only tradition they have is one of losing...

    Look at the Marlies, they are competitive this year. Why? JFJ spent a bunch of money on getting experienced minor league players thinking that Torontonians would be more willing to shell out some bucks to see a winning AHL hockey team.

    We can expect the ACC to be empty here on out.
  14. The Habs from Toronto, Canada writes: Ok...who has tickets to the game Saturday night that they won't need ? Surely there are some box seat people on these boards.
  15. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Now Now PC.... you were not on his list :)

    Cheers to my fellow Leaf fans that show up and avow allegiance to our team.

    Thanks for the clicks on Leaf threads to all of the vultures who show up and I'm sure slow down to stare are car wrecks as well..... should keep the Leafs on the sports pages well into the summer.

    James C... last place won't happen... but with Raycroft in net (recall Wozniewski... please)... we could end up with a top ten pick... still will be a good one from what I understand. (Assuming their are actually Leaf scouts out there somewhere).

    Thanks Doktor David and JR.... Lots of hockey left to talk about... just not our favourite team (and four more games worth to see how Maurice chooses to play the players he has at his disposal).

    Great to see a couple of my favourite whipping boys involved in the loss tonight.... McCabe trying to stick check Murray on the third Boston goal instead up just getting in front/hitting him. Blake deflecting the fourth goal into top corner instead of hitting Schaefer or at least trying to block the shot.

    More to come.... getting to that 1200 character limit :)
  16. Proud Canadian from Canada writes: Scotty Loucks, hear that AC-DC and Guns and Roses are available for dates at the ACC. Now, I just might go to Toronto to see them. (In fact have seen both previously, EXCELLENT entertainment. ) Oh well, Cam Wooley is heading to Barrie in the morning to pick up a bran new Black & White Crown Vic with a bran new set of super huper duty new set of disco lites, LED variety, to get Marcy up to the cottage. Safe and sound. Maybe suggest they keep him there year round.
  17. Joel Parkes from Peterborough, Canada writes: I'm shocked!
  18. Right On the Left Coast from Vancouver, Canada writes: Ode to being a Leafs Fan...

    The reason the national news dotes on the Leafs whether they win or lose is the same reason CNN doesn't follow the Nader campaign and the same reason why nobody watches the WNBA...

    Sorry folks, Sens hockey just isn't popular. Figure skating outdraws the Canucks, and few people can name three Oilers. As I sit back in my cold, familiar, meaningless April, at least I know there'll be coverage of my team in the news in May, June, July, and August...
  19. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: Scot,

    You are right about slowing down to watch a car wreck. I often wonder what the haters on here, who take direct shots at fans, think we do when the Leafs lose?

    My day tomorrow is no different. I will watch as much hockey in the playoffs as I always do, just not the leaf's this year. I'm not sad nor am I disallusioned. Still have a great career, family, and life. Our sense of worth is not linked to a team's performance.

    I suspect they are the ones who like looking at a car crash and are likely also the ones that got picked on a little too much at school.
    I feel sorry for them.

    Anyway, it will be interesting to see what changes are made. Care to go on the record now with who is in and who is out? Just curious.

    And I hope Toskala does get a rest and would love to see Pogge start a few games. Give him a couple on the road to see how ready he is (if he ever is) for NHL action.
  20. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Martel and Mariposa got here pretty quick.... Curly, Larry and.... where the hell is Moe (Miller)?

    Mariposa.... I wouldn't be surprised to see Stajan play for Team Canada at the worlds... maybe Moore and Devereaux as well.

    I expect Kubina, Kaberle and Tlusty to at least be asked to play for the Czechs.

    Good possibility Toskala is asked by the Finns.

    We know Steen and Sundin will be talked to by the Swedes... probably Stralman and Kronwall as well.

    Cheers
  21. Yes ... I have an opinion from Canada writes: Ahhhh … days are getting longer, sunshine is noticeably warmer, the first robin has been spotted in the park across the street and the Leafs have failed to make the playoffs. All’s well in the world … the universe remains in balance. Amen.
  22. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: At least I can go see half the leaf team here in Halifax now...
  23. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: J R from Halifax:

    Oh dear!

    Another unprovoked, whine attack from a Leafs' supporter...

    No one in Atlantic Canada (other than you) wanted to see this lousy team on HNIC on the CBC after November 2007...

    BTW Ever think about the fact that you guys could have had Ken Dryden and Bob Gainey running your team if MLS&E had had an ounce of intelligence...

    Think about that over your extended summer holidays...

    I think the real problem here is that the Leafs' spin-masters (CBC, Canadian Press and G&M) just weren't spinning hard enough this season, JR...

    Cheers to the Leafs fans who I may have offended during this year's playoff hunt-TM... You know who you are...
  24. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: Robert....when did I attack you?

    The only comment I made was about the people who want to take shots at people for being fans...
  25. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Scot - my point on no Leafs for Team Canada revolved around the higher paid Canadian citizens on this club - Tucker and Blake.

    I am very well aware that you await the 3M comments (Martel, Miller, Mariposa) as the alternative is ... those we do not wish to name.

    As for a previous comment about putting Pogge in goal and bringing up some prospects. NO! Better the Marlies go deep into the playoffs, win the Calder Cup, and understand teamwork and winning. Then bring it to the cauldron of the ACC and the mess which is the senior club.
  26. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Proud Canadian from Canada writes: Scotty Loucks, hear that AC-DC and Guns and Roses are available for dates at the ACC....

    -------

    LOL PC... a head banger no less.. :)

    My preferences lean towards CFNY (102.1)... alternative rock that plays in the clubs downtown... my kids keep telling me I am a little too old though.... so I wear a hat over my baldness and go incognito :)

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

    Right On the Left Coast from Vancouver... I can name lots of Oilers... they are now my favourite underdog..... but I hear you.... Leaf coverage will never go away.

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

    J R.... I would love to go on record... but I have posted my 'wants' many times... I don't actually have a clue though as far as who goes and who stays. We know Kubina no longer has a no trade (till Aug. 15th)... but if you had a choice would you keep Kubina or McCabe?

    White and Stralman show some promise as puck moving defensemen... does that make Kaberle expendable?

    Will Sundin come back? Are Steen and Stajan top 6 forwards?

    They could get a lot in return for Toskala, Kaberle, Kubina, Steen, Antropov and Poni.... do they have the balls to do it?

    Who is in charge?

    Cheers
  27. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: Robert.

    If you think my first post was a shot at you it wasn't. I was talking about the 5 or 6 people who just came here to insult fans.

    My next comment which was directed to you was a different thought and there becasue I expect to see you comment tongiht.

    As for being the only one wanting to see the leafs? I use sattelite and watch what I want to but we both know its about 50/50 down here between Toronto and Montreal fans with some Ottawa, Detroit, and Boston in between.

    Although I did move to Toronto for 4 yrs and just moved back so maybe that has changed but I am not too sure.
  28. j q from Canada writes: Miller,

    Your sense of self importance is out of place. With numerous Leaf haters, trolls and wannabees, your meanderings are neither original nor illicit the visceral reaction you hope. The entire season's collection of such to date are much like the Leafs, uninspiringly limp!
  29. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: Scot,

    Yes I have read your predictions before...just curious if anything changed.

    I am not so sure Kubina will keep playing this way but I think it is worth keeping him if you can move McCabe for sure. Keep Kabby and let the rest of the kids on D earn a spot. I hope Sundin is back and would see if Stajan and Steen can have breakout years but would not hold my breath.

    I am not sure Tlusty is ever going to amount to anything but its worth a look.

    Drop Bell, Raycroft, Tucker, Wellwood (my beer league team wouldnt take him), Poni and bring in youg guys who can hit. Make it fun to watch if they are going to lose for the next couple of years!
  30. Proud Canadian from Canada writes: Scotty Loucks, I dunno but I think Toskola has to stay, if only him. There are not many super goalies in the league this year, Luongo, Toskola, who else. Really. U gotta start somewhere, maybe the rest are expendable but I think Toskola has to stay and if Mats wants to come back for a 'reasonable' price, him too.. My idea anyway.
  31. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Ah... the comedy trio have all arrived.... nice. :)

    Mariposa ... you are totally correct. All the eligible Marlies need to be sent down asap. Give them a chance to win the Calder and experience a winning atomosphere.

    btw... Blake is American.

    No chance on Pogge playing in the NHL this year (probably not next year either if we keep Toskala)....

    The Leafs should rotate some other Marlies thru the lineup for the final 4 games (if they need bodies) to see what they can do... but let the Marlies win.

    J R... you attacked poor Robert because he and Billings are running a little show called whine to the CBC and HNIC.... not your fault but I think he thinks you are the lone Leaf supporter in Halifax :) or at least the union rep :)

    I personally have no problem with Robert because at least he is a Habs fan.... as apposed to Curly and Larry who for some unexplicable reason cheer for the Sens. :)

    Cheers
  32. j q from Canada writes: Scot,

    The only two keepers are Toskala and Kaberle. For obvious the reasons -> you keep consistently good goaltending (not even terrific) when you have it, and a puck moving defencemen which controls the pace of the game and makes good decisions for reasonable price is a rare commodity. (A little bit more grit would be great, but you can't have everything1)
  33. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: J R from Halifax:

    Good to have you back in the province! More Torontonians should return back east for the good life...

    There is now a growing Pittsburgh following in Halifax too, but you are correct that the majority are probably still Habs and Bruins supporters...

    However, all the comments on these threads are meant in good fun... ;) No one actually affects the players on the ice with our comments on these threads... If Peddie gets fired because of anything that I have said, that's just a bonus for TO, eh?

    Right now, it's 'Go Mooseheads!' in Halifax and only about $12 for a ticket--

    I am hoping that they might get the privilege of sending Patrick Roy's Remparts out of the playoffs in the near future...

    Cheers.
  34. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: To be honest I never had a problem with old Bobby Miller either and he was one of a few I even come on here to read.

    Where is the poor Troll? He should be all over this!!!

    And go into any pub on a Saturday night for the Leafs and Habs....tough to discern whose numbers are greater!
  35. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: And (sorry for posting so much) as for who is shown in Atlantic. In the 80s when the leafs were as bad as they are this year it was about 3 or 4 Canadiens games for every one leaf game. It only changed when the buds started to play above 500 hockey and Gimlour arrived in the 90s and I suspect it will revert back now that they are not a winning team.
  36. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: Actually Robert you will really hate me now but I miss Toronto. Had a great place next to the skydome on Front Street and its one hell of a city to live in. I would say that despite the leafs being there. Career brought me there and then back here. Such is life.

    Anyway glad to be back and I do think we live in one of the most underrated cities in the world.

    Just wait until we get our own version of the Chunnel for 1.6 Billion! Then we're really on the map.
  37. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: I wonder if Maurice is still drinking his Chamomile Tea? Had to look the spelling on that one up.
  38. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: J R from Halifax, Canada:

    To be honest, I love the city of TO where I previously lived for 8 years as a kid and still have a lot of good friends... Well, maybe not anymore after dissing the Leafs on these threads so much... I just hate mis-management...

    We might as well get political since the Leafs season is now over.

    I was somewhat surprised at that recent funding announcement...

    Don't you feel that it would be better to put that $1.6 Billion towards a real public transit system in Halifax so less cars need to be crossing Halifax harbour?
  39. Sandy T. from Canada writes:

    J R from Halifax, Canada writes:
    'I often wonder what the haters on here, who take direct shots at fans, think we do when the Leafs lose?

    My day tomorrow is no different. I will watch as much hockey in the playoffs as I always do, just not the leaf's this year. I'm not sad nor am I disallusioned. Still have a great career, family, and life. Our sense of worth is not linked to a team's performance.'

    Truer words, etc. It also makes one wonder what life's like in their homes when their teams lose doesn't it? After all, people who themselves behave in a given manner do have a tendency to project those behaviours onto others in order to justify their own inadequacies. As if a game has the power to upset one's life and happiness.

    JR, I think what we're reading here are the mewlings of some incredibly juvenile people. Many of them would make excellent poster children for arrested development. Sad really.
  40. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: J R... I like Tlusty... I just don't like the way they wasted him this year. He should have been playing twenty minutes a night for the Marlies... power play and penalty kills.

    PC; I am not saying they should trade Toskala... I'm just saying he is a valuable asset... possibly valuable enough that LA might give up their first round pick.
  41. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: Roberts,

    The idea of a friggin tunnel under the harbor makes me laugh. Also I would be giving incentives for more business to move outside of the downtown core as a way to alleviate the traffic.

    Lets at least hope they dont finance in a different currecny this time!
  42. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: Scot,

    I am ok with another look at the kid. I just expected more speed and was disappointed at how soft he can play...two things that killed the leafs this year.

    Any word these days on that Swede everyone wants to sign?
  43. Mariposa Belle from Leacockland, Canada writes: Sandy T. - great post. Let's keep this to supporters having a good bante over a couple of virtual pints.

    As for Scot trying to carve out Miller from the 3Ms, it won't work on these Leaf threads, There is far too much material from other posters to provide us with fun.

    I hope that we will have a Sens-Habs Eastern final - it could be good hockey and I am hoping, good banter afterwards, if the Globe doesn't shut us down for good behaviour.
  44. Don Bryant from Calgary, Canada writes: Mac - GLG from Canada writes: By the way - The following suck big ones!!
    Midtown Bob from Toronto,
    Don Bryant from Calgary,
    Baad Daddy from Still Cold Here
    and - David H from Calgary, - also sucks bigger ones

    Aw, Mac, did oo poor widdle Weafs woose? Is that why you made such highly intelligent comments?
  45. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Not that I have heard J R.... last I heard was the 'why' JFJ didn't sign him when they had the chance.

    Nor have I heard anything on their apparently top notch Russian playing in the RSL.

    Somebody posted yesterday that the Leafs required a real 'change of culture'. I agree.

    That might require the trading of even the keepers on this team (Kaberle and Toskala)... I think it will be a very interesting summer for Leaf fans.

    Cheers
  46. j q from Canada writes: Scot,

    Your swap to LA for the 1st pick is interesting if looked at from a different perspective. If, assuming LA does swap the #1 pick for Toskala, (and that is a gigantic 'if' bordering on fantasy), it means the Leafs gave up their 1st rounder & 2nd rounder last year, a 4 rounder this year, plus Bell's $2.25 million salary over two years and the services of Toskala for 1 yr @ $1.8 mil for the overall 1st round pick this year. Not a bad swap.

    While I think LA might want to upgrade in goal to backstop and steady a young team upfront, I think the Leafs would also need to swap another player or another pick, possibly their 1st rounder this year to make the deal. The question then becomes, is Stamkos worth it? If this draft is as deep as they say, is there that much of a difference between the 1st overall and the 10 picks which come after?
  47. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: J R from Halifax, Canada:

    Agreed -- remember I said in an earlier post that I hated mis-management...

    Some of the politicos around Nova Scotia ?? Whoa Boy?

    I actually wish the G&M would cover more stories from Nova Scotia so our old boys in governments could get a few clues from posters around the country...

    However, I definitely note that the G&M also seems to be getting better at covering the bigger picture from other regions of the country.... :)

    Cheers and Good night ---

    Here's hoping that the Leafs will rebuild for next season...
  48. Bubbles McBubbles from Trawna, Canada writes: Par 3. 150 yards. McCabe now putting for a triple bogie. Over to you on 18, Bob.
  49. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: I've had a headache since waking up and no amount of medication is killing it. Maybe being a leaf fan has finally done me in!

    I better go get some sleep and dream of the new Halgonian Chunnel...
  50. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Very good question j q.

    Trading Toskala would basically mean tanking it for next year... I don't think Pogge is ready.

    So.... are we just trading for Stamkos? Or are we also taking a one year shot and going for Taveres as well?

    What if (BIG IF) they trade away all the real assets? That includes Kubina and Kaberle. That includes Antropov. That includes Toskala.

    Traded for prospects.....

    Would they still sell out every game next year? We all know the answer to that one.
    Would there be an uproar from the so called 'Leaf Nation' ? Probably but who really cares.

    The real question is.... do they have the balls to do it?

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

    Scott Loucks is not carving me out of the 3M club...

    My gut instinct tells me that it is time for the 3M club to move on and leave the Leafs supporters to fly on their own now. Otherwise, we will appear to be dancing on their graves and that's never sporting...

    See you in the playoffs, Mariposa Belle...

    REMEMBER TO BOYCOT THE BEIJING OLYMPICS !!

    WHAT WAS THE OLYMPIC COMMITTEE THINKING IN NOT AWARDING THOSE TO TORONTO?
  52. J R from Halifax, Canada writes: Scot,

    I would support that. I don't see it as tanking. It's making a choice and sticking with the plan.
  53. Pat Billings from CDN, Canada writes: Toskala is a valuable commodity?????

    He's a 31yr old career-backup goaltender. He's a second/third tier goaltender in this league. When given the #1 spot, he overachieved to take his team to the 12th spot in a weak conference.

    The Kings have Jonathan Bernier waiting in the wings. They aren't going to waste a top 5 1st-round pick on a a 31yr old career-backup goaltender.
  54. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Mariposa/Miller... I personally hope that if the Sens/Habs meet in the playoffs... it's in the conference finals.

    I will cheer for whomever I decide to pick in my pools :)

    Not sure on that one yet.

    Right now I'm seeing Pittsburgh and Washington.... be wary of Brodeur (always).

    Still going to pick a Western team to win the cup..... SJ? Anaheim? What if Calgary gets third seed?

    Stanley cup playoff tournament.... best sports event in the world.

    Cheers
  55. j q from Canada writes: Scot,

    As I've said before, if the Leafs are going to start fresh, they need a vision/philosophy and a blue print outlining the type of style the team will play going forward. Thereafter, they would draft and sign players that fit the style of play. I think we'd all llike to see this team become grittier and much more difficult to play against night in and night out. That will require drafting or signing a young hardnose future captain like an Iginla, Mike Richards, or Brendan Shanahan.

    Are there any young players that fit this criteria in the next 3 drafts. I think the Leafs should be looking out 3-5 years to back to the show. The suits and the fans might not llike it, but it is only way to build a strong foundation for a long term future.
  56. John Stanton from Canada writes: nice to see all the whiner Senators fans here...hypocrites to the end!! ha ha. Mariposa, especially you...let me paraphrase your post to me on the Senator comments:

    'This is a discussion between hockey fans who support 'their' team and on the best of threads, a rational yet passionate discussion can occur.'

    And here you are supporting your team...ha ha....

    PC...kisses to you.
  57. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada:

    Agree.

    The Pens could be a dangerous team this year. I have been watching Crosby since his junior days and although he hasn't really had the opportunity to really show it yet in the NHL, he has an ability to inspire those who play around him to great heights... Reminds me of a trait that I saw amongst players when I lived in Montreal in the 1970s...

    Now with a bona fide supporting cast of characters (Staal, Malkin, Hossa, etc.) and some goaltenders, the Pens could be one of the teams to watch closely...
  58. John Stanton from Canada writes: Robert...I thought that about the Pens last year but their lack of defence worries me and shows up in big games. I think they are still too young. Crosby has to shake his ankle injury as well but I dont think he is going to be 100 % in the playoffs again.. I would love to see them go for a run though.
  59. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: j q; I agree with most... I just don't think it will take that long. Not with proper management that actually has a plan.

    Look at the Oilers this year.... all kids.
    Look at the Sabres both last year and this.
    Even the hated Flyers are ahead of the Leafs after a one year tank.

    Either way... looking forward to the changes.... as long as the players are playing from October till April I will be happy.

    Cheers
  60. John Stanton from Canada writes: Scot...balls have nothing to do with it. The Leafs print money for MLSE. That hasnt changed. Why would they make any significant changes? That's right, they wouldnt so no changes. This business is going to crank out the same product until the revenue is impacted.
  61. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Robert... my only question about the Pens is 'will they get playoff goaltending?'. They certainly have the firepower up front to remind us of the old Oilers. (who lost in their first major crack at the cup).

    As John Stanton suggests.... will Crosby be 100 percent... another question.

    Four more games to try and figure that one out..... then it's time to make the picks for the pools.

    Still think Washington is a serious wild card. I know Ottawa doesn't want to play them.

    I think the habs will win their first round.... their inexperience may hurt them in the second... but what if they are up against Pitts or Washington? (Just as inexperienced).

    I think the eastern playoffs will be lots of fun to watch.

    I think the western playoffs are going to be a bloodbath.

    Cheers
  62. j wilson from vancouver, Canada writes: John Stanton, If the Leafs ever turn into an honesttoGod powerhouse, (and I may be dead before it happens) the amount of money Leafs TV and the NHL package with grow by will be insane.
    Not to mention sweaters and pucks and other merchandise, as well as peripheral spinoffs for other teams.
    But yeah, the MLSE guys arent the sharpest lot. Offer BBurke or Kenny Holland 7 mil per to run the team? Nah. Theyll be bringing in the next version of JFJ this summer, blame him a couple of years later for the 2009-10 season....
  63. Jack Rip from Vancouver, Canada writes: The only reason so many non-Torontonians hate the Leafs is that the CBC, aided and abbetted by a Leaf-friendly NHL schedule (Leafs play every Saturday) broadcasts this trash into the homes hockey fans across the nation week, after week, month after month. I hve no problem watching any NHL hockey, but the fact is that the Habs, Sens, Oilers and Canucks broadcasts are effctively blacked-out by the CBC nationwide in favour of a pathetic, perrenially losing, dysfunctional organization.

    THE LEAFS HAVEN'T APPEARED IN A STANLEY CUP FINAL IN 40 SEASONS!

    Compare this with the Canucks (13 seasons), Habs (14), Flames (3), Oilers (2), Sens (1). The COMBINED Stanley Cup Final dought years of the Canucks, Habs, Flames, Oilers and Sens (33 years) still doesn't match the Leafs drought (40 seasons). Is it true that the CBC will preempt Stanley Cup playoffs this year with play-by-play broadcasts of the Leafs golfing?
  64. Alias No Name from Vanuatu writes: The whole business of hockey is screwed right now...Let's if we can see good hockey in May at the WC in Halifax and Quebec....
  65. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Alias No Name from Vanuatu:

    Cheers to your idea...

    Hopefully, some G&M readers from Toronto will now make the trip to either Quebec City or Halifax to see the World Championships in May of this year...

    John Stanton and Scot Loucks -- Time will tell re. Crosby and the Pens, I guess...
  66. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Jack Rip from Vancouver, Canada writes: The only reason so many non-Torontonians hate the Leafs is that the CBC, aided and abetted by a Leaf-friendly NHL schedule (Leafs play every Saturday) broadcasts this trash into the homes hockey fans across the nation week, after week, month after month..

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

    No Jack.. the ROC hates Toronto because they keep voting Liberal... not seeming to have a clue or care about the ROC.

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

    Back to our regularly scheduled Leaf bashing.

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

    Mariposa.... you seem a little sensitive tonight.....
    If I was 'cutting' anybody out... it would be Martel.... he rarely if ever sticks around for a real conversation about hockey...

    Robert... I was so planning on attending the WC this spring... employment possibilities got in the way of that.

    Two of my favourite cities... Quebec and Halifax.

    Cheers
  67. Buddy Malone from Calgary, Canada writes: Scot Loucks from Pickering, Man if we were ever at war I'd want you next to me in the trench.You are one loyal tough cookie!Cheers to you!
  68. David Snider from Ottawa, Switzerland writes: I've got no time, nor patience, for fan bickering ... but this board doesn't seem as bad as some.

    From a die-hard Sens fan, I give the Leafs their due. They didn't have a very good season but they showed some real gumption towards the end. I'd like to see a bit more of that in my Sens ... and maybe I will in a couple of weeks. If so, they'll do alright.

    Good luck to the TML next year. I think they'll be fine. A few changes, a bit of a shake-up (get rid of some of the older guys ... just for the change, if nothing else) and they'll start fresh. I think that this season has been a wake-up call for Leaf management and while it may take a year or two I think that the Leafs will be a serious playoff soon enough.

    No matter how the playoffs go, I just want to make sure that someone from Canada is in the final. I'd prefer the Sens but the Habs will do in a pinch ... or some of our Western brethren (unlikely, though, I think).

    Anyway ... Go Sens ... and to a lesser extent, Go Habs and Go Leafs. Hockey beats the snot out of any other sport, period!
  69. Scot Loucks from Pickering, Canada writes: Buddy Malone; Thank you .... tyvm.

    David Snider... great post from a Sens fan... believe me when I say... I will be cheering for your team.

    Bed time now for Bonzo (moi).... so for all the vultures and haters that are about to show up....

    Thank you.

    Just by posting you will help to ensure we have more Leaf stories from now till.... whenever :)

    Do your attack thing.... we leaf fans don't really care... in fact I don't care at all.

    Please tell us all how our team sux.
    Please tell us all why we are all idiots.
    Please remind us that we haven't won the cup since 67.... (I was there).
    Check out MTO.com... there may be a car wreck there.

    Bottom line children... Leaf fans don't care what you think.
    Enjoy

    Cheers
  70. Bob Stanley from Toronto, Canada writes:

    Ottawa will beat the teams in the east...watch
  71. Bill M from Canada writes: From wackepedia:

    NHL Playoffs: A television reality show that airs yearly from early April until mid June. This show highlights the best professional hockey teams in North America as they play a tournament designed to crown one team as champions. The champions receive a trophy called the Stanley Cup. Ratings for this series are high in Canada, except in one area. This area is referred to as 'the centre of the hockey universe', but for some strange reason, the population does not watch hockey unless some team named the Toronto Maple Leafs are involved. This is rare occurence, having last happened over four years ago.
  72. Allan Martel from Canada writes: Leafs eliminated mathematically from playoffs: And it's Pythagarus flying up the left wing with Euclid at his right in a two-on-one rush. He passes to Euclid in the slot, he shoots - he scores!! Only Euclid can fire into the net from the angle. Yes the Leafs are gone again, a sine of the times. Maybe Fletcher can get MLSE to cosine some cheques and bring in some new players, as this is integral to imprpovements. Scot Loucks wants to cut me out of the 3M group because, unlike him, I don't stay up all night. I am prepared to engage in hockey talk - particularly when there's a team worth discussing (as opposed to simply disgusting). I'm here early most mornings after sleeping on my thoughts about the previous evening's games. Toronto is history for another year and Ottawa will soon be as well if they continue to play that deer in the headlights style of game getting totally outhhustled in their own end. In bitter retrospect, it's amazing how much Chiara brought to the Sens defensive game and sad to see no one yet step up to assume that pivotal role. Murray is very worried and it looks like an early exit from the playoffs this year based on recent play, to the delight of the Leaf Nation, I'm sure.
  73. David Snider from Ottawa, Switzerland writes: Thanks Scot ... appreciate any support that we can get. G'night (good afternoon from where I sit).

    Go Sens
  74. MHR Toronto from Toronto, Canada writes: This season was over almost as soon as it began. The question now is: what next? They'll finish too high in the standings to benefit from an early draft pick; Sundin has decided to keep his Toronto house and his Toronto money, meaning until he retires, the salary that might have gone to immediate rebuilding is locked up; and there is no will at head office to do anything but continue collecting big bucks at the gate. Hey, what would you do? The fans are willing to pay for a subpar product; why make an effort to improve if that's good enough for them?

    It's not only going to be a long summer, it's going to be a long five-to-ten years. The devastating combo of a dysfunctional head office, a lazy team, and easily satisfied paying customers is going to keep this town in tears for a long time to come.

    The only thing left for a Laffs fan is to watch Ottawa fold in the stretch. Go Montreal, I guess.
  75. Rusty Waters from Canada writes: Ottawa fans got nothing to brag about. Ottawa will fold in the playoffs, because they don't have a playoff goalie. Ottawa could have won the cup at least 3 or 4 times in the past 10 years but never had the top goaltending for the playoffs. You would think the management in Ottawa would have figured out by now a team needs a goalie for the playoffs. Ottawa should bring up a goaltender from their farm team. As for Leafs, I guess with the contracts the management has signed with the team and the teams lack of skilled players they will still play to full crowds everynight. Cash is king.
  76. Ter3 Hamer from Canada writes: It will be soooooo nice not to listen to this center of the universe garbage any longer. This is the only way to get CBC to wisen up. Now we can focus on the real teams in Canada.
  77. B B from Ottawa, Canada writes: 'Baad Daddy from Still Cold Here, Canada writes: The only thing better than having the Leafs miss the playoffs would be to see them in overtime of game seven of the Cup final at home and have one of them knock the puck in their own net and lose. I'd pay $19.67 to see that. I hate them.'

    It wasn't OT of Game 7, but didn't Chris Phillips do that in the final last year. lol. How did the Sens do in that series, btw? Oh, riiiiight.
    Second round tops this year for that bunch of chokers.
  78. Larfing Outloud from Virgin Islands (British) writes: Makes me pine for the good 'ole days of the Ballard Years now that we seem to be stuck in the Peddie Years.
  79. Paul B from Barrie, Canada writes: As a lifetime Leafs fan, I'm once again disappointed by the results of this season. I've been an observer of these message boards all season, rarely participating in them however. I only read the comments on the Leafs stories, don't really care what the Sens or Habs fans have to say about their teams. I have never or will never cheer for either of those teams in the playoffs, no Leafs fan would. With that being said, if and when the Leafs return to respectibility and make a run in the playoffs, the 'haters' of today would be jumping back on the Leaf bandwagon. That was very evident in the Gilmour days of the 90's when the crowds in any Canadian city rink was half full of Leaf fans. Remember Tiger Williams (once a Leaf) getting all upset that there were too many Leaf fans at a Canucks game out-noising their fans. See Ottawa, don't feel bad it doesn't just happen in your rink. I've observed something interesting about Ottawa and their fans...read on.
  80. Paul B from Barrie, Canada writes: As I said, I've made an interesting analogy about The Senators and their fans (all 5,000 of them). They remind me of the unplanned/unwanted 3rd son to 2 older and much loved and respected older brothers (Montreal and Toronto). Montreal with all its great achievements and awards, Mom and Dad are so proud. And Toronto, past successes but not much lately, but no matter how much this kid screws up, Mom and Dad still love him so much more than the 3rd child. Ottawa looks up to their older brothers but resent them at the same time for being loved so much. They do everything the can, get good grades, clean up their room, go to the Stanley Cup Finals, but Mom and Dad still don't love them. I WOULD BE BITTER TOO!!!
  81. Paul I from Rochester NY, United States writes: A lot of new Leaf haters today. Where you you during the season?

    Scot Loucks- Toskala is the only keeper at this point.

    PC- You can't come to Toronto for a concert. You have told us too many times how much you hate the entire GTA. Wait until Guns&Roses come to Perrysburg, OH

    To all- Try to remember they are Canadian-based teams and American-based teams. They are not Canadian or American teams. I hope a Canadian-based team wins the Cup

    Super Troll-See you next year. Enjoy your mom's basement. Try and get a little sun.

    Cheers to all- Hope your team does well. Go Leafs Go!!
  82. Ottawa Resident from Ottawa, Canada writes: Loving it .... the reason most educated people can't stand the Leafs is that they are an arrogant, self centered team, just like to Toronto people .... they think the GTA is the center of the universe, well wake up and smell the 3rd year in a row a no show in the playoffs ...... now let Canada's real teams go all the way to the final ... Go Habs Go, Go Sens Go and hopefully Go all Western Teams Go ...
  83. Jimmy Jensen from Toronto, Canada writes: It is truly sad. Believe it or not Toronto is actually a town where people love hockey but the Leafs owners have always felt that the Leafs were their own personal cash cow. No one ever seems to do what's right for the team or tries to build a decent hockey team here. The scouting staff has been unbelievably incompetent. Throughout southern Ontario ,virtually in the Leafs backyard, the OHL has recently produced Rick Nash (London Knights) Eric Staal ( Peterborough Petes) Daniel Briere (Ottawa 67's) Jordan Staal (Peterborough Petes) Marc Staal (Sudbury Wolves) Benoit Pouliot ( Sudbury Wolves) Brent Burns (Brampton Battalion) Andrew Cogliano ( St. Mikes Buzzers) and on and on it goes. Do the leafs scouting staff not have a map? Can they not find these towns when there is a game on and check out some talent! The Leafs are mostly to blame for their own demise. Toronto deserves better!!!
  84. Pete H from Former Leafs Fan, Canada writes: FINALLY!! No more Leafs 'run' to make the playoffs. Why don't Leaf fans understand that there is no point in supporting a team that isn't managed properly and has no future. Why are you paying good money to see this crap?
    I was fortunate enough to see the writing on the wall and switched to supporting the Raptors. Same ownership... way better management. I saved myself a lot of grief by not watching the Make Beliefs for a couple years now. The Raps aren't perfect but they have a much better future ahead of them and are much more enjoyable to watch.
    Until MLSE gets it right and hires a GM that's willing to make some bold moves, I refuse to waste anymore time on the Leafs than it takes to write this little post. Adios muchachos!
  85. True North from The Free West, Canada writes:
    It's not the Leafs we hate - when they speak they sound like typical, decent hockey players.

    No, it's Toronto we hate - with all its smug pretensions and media attention.

    Toronto's failure is good for Canadian unity.
  86. Atlantic Geezer from Canada writes: we have tolook at the positives, a gypsy lady once told me that I'd not die until the leafs won the cup again.
  87. Proud Canadian from Canada, Canada writes: Paul I from ochester..... Good Morning. Have no fear, I wont be going to Toronto anytime soon. For any reason. Cant se all the big name entertainment in the Detroit area anytime. Got tickets already for Rod Stewart/Bryan Adams concert Aug 6th, Celine Dion in Sept, both in Detroit area. The sched for the summer is not yet complete but will get to at least a couple more before the summer's over. Your poor Leafs, as the new buzzword states, 'they need a makeover'. Hope they are successful. At coffee a short while ago, Sarnia beat Windsor out last night, now Stamkos and the Sting face Kitchener. That will be their undoing. I think. Im not like another poster on here that has a crystal ball and knows what the outcome of the playoffs will be this year. Im not that smart. Nor is that poster for that matter, but thinking one is is all that matters. anyways have a good day, money in my pocket for your coffee, all ya gotta do is come and get it. Not delivering into NY state.....Sorry, the Bears over there are toooooooo hungry.....
  88. sam themacman from Waterloo, Canada writes: As a lifetime Habs fan, today I rejoice at another successful NHL season. It is a glorious season when the Laughs do not make the play offs. It wipes the crap dumped on us Habs fan after last season's last game. The Laughs had opportunity last summer to make changes from the top down and they just not only sat pat, but rewarded mediocre players with surreal contracts with no trade clauses to handcuff themselves and mortgage their future. Only the innept MLSE would let this happen. I have some friends who are die hard Laughs Nation disciples who today find only misery and they know where the responsibility lies. It lies with MLSE top brass, and that stupid Teacher's Union. That union has no business being part of the ownership of a sports franchise. The bottom line to that union has always been about