Thursday? So soon?
Things have been a little nuts around here; I had the worst haircut ever yesterday (actually, second worst. In highschool I had a haircut that was so bad my computer science teacher teased me). Everyone knows, bad hair just throws the day's mojo out the window.
This week has seemed kinda big as far as hockey news. For once, I actually had MORE than 13 thoughts, but shortened my list for all of you. Please enjoy this week's 13 Thursday Thoughts on hockey stuff:
(please read responsibly)
#13 John Pohl makes his return as the Chicago Wolves take on the Toronto Marlies at the Ricoh Coliseum on Friday. For some reason I am far more anxious to see how Pohl is progressing rather than how badly Chelios is degressing. Pohl's journey to the NHL deserves a writer, a publisher and an excellent novel. Former Marlie, Tim Stapleton, also to make his return to the Ricoh.
#12 Zack Stortini earns himself a Gordie Howe Hat Trick Wednesday night as his Oilers defeated the Bolts 3-2. I find it interesting that on only two instances Gordie Howe recorded a goal, assist and fight in a single game.
#11 The Maple Leafs have been on quite the hot streak in December, winning four of five games and out scoring their opponents 19-14. Coach Ron Wilson remarked during a recent interview that all the while the Buds have had very little practice time. The Leafs have played five games in nine days, competed in the Maple Leafs skills competition and held an outdoor community practice. I say, if the Leafs can pull out four wins without practice - to hell with it!
#10 The NHL has announced that it will be planning a two day fan festival outside of Fenway park during the Winter Classic. The festival will include Bruins alumni, live musical performances, interactive hockey-themed attractions and chances to win tickets to the outdoor game to be held on New Years Day at 1pm EST (21 days & 20 hours away).
#9 The Carolina Hurricanes look to be the next recipient of a first overall pick as they sit at the bottom of the league with only 19 points, 8 behind the 29th place Leafs. The Canes have performed at a mediocre 6-7-2 at home, but have been completely obliterated while on the road (1-11-3). Could we see Rutherford wave goodbye to Maurice for a 2nd time? I doubt it, I believe there are at least 12 players who will see the door before the two-time Canes bench boss.
#8 It has been confirmed that Cody Hodgson will not be joining team Canada at the World Junior Championships this year, where the red and white team looks to defend it's 5 year winning streak. Hodgson suffered a back injury over the summer months, and released Tuesday that he will not be attending camp. Though team Canada has newcomer's Kadri, Schenn and Seguin to more than adequately fill the centre positions, Cody's experience having won last year on the world stage is an invaluable loss to the team. Team Canada does not plan to invite an additional candidate in Hodgson's place.
#7 With Kessel being dealt to Toronto for two first rounder's and a second, media and fans alike scoffed, announcing that Phil will not be nearly as effective without his former centre Marc Savard. Don't look now haters, but Kessel leads all Bruins (yes, I said Bruins) in goals scored with 10. Let's keep in mind that Phil missed October while he continued to recover from shoulder surgery. And how has Savard faired? Marc's 2 goals and 12 assists can not compare to Kessel's 10 tallies and 6 helpers. I don't think Savard's nearly as productive without Kessel. Bruins lose.
#6 While on the thought of goal scoring, the San Jose Sharks were the NHL's first team this season to register 100 goals for. On the opposite, and far more embarrassing side of the track, it's no big surprise that the Toronto Maple Leafs was the first to cross the 100 goals against mark.
#5 With the season being shortened by the Olympic break, nearly half the NHL's teams will be playing four games this week, and we can expect this pace to continue for most of the season. To be honest, you don't see me complaining. I get to take in a lot more puck instead of the Pratt's or Scott's of the Mrs. favourited Hills or One Tree Hill episodes.
#4 The North East division is currently the NHL's weakest. The NE leading Buffalo Sabres have only 36 points, eight behind the South East leading Capitals, and only one more than the Pacific's fourth place Stars. Ouch.
#3 The Flyers parted ways with coach John Stevens last week, and invited Peter Laviolette to take his place. Unfortunately Laviolette's troops responded to the change in command by falling 8-2 to Washington's Capitals, handing the Flyers their most embarrassing loss of the season. Is Philly destined to be the next Ottawa?
#2 Toronto Maple Leafs have been attempting to turn around their dismal start to the season by posting a 7-2-1 record over their last ten games, tying them for the best "Last Ten" record in the league.... with six other teams. Still, the patience Ron Wilson has demonstrated with the Leafs makes him worthy of sainthood, or at least a Nobel prize. Here's to an equally impressive record over the next ten.
#1 And what's my number one thought for the week? This rarely cherished and highly disputed position belongs to none other than MB103 - Martin Brodeur for tying the seemingly unbreakable NHL record of 103 shutouts set by Terry Sawchuk 46 years ago. As much admiration as I have for Brodeur, I just have one thing to say - Sawchuk did it without a mask.
That's it for this week. I'm considering recording my 13 Thursday Thoughts as a video blog and posting it on YouTube - it could be a fun Rick Mercer type account of the week's NHL stories (to be honest, I just came up with that idea while writing this week's thoughts). Good idea? Bad idea? Let me know!
Until next time, stay online!
Your buddy,
Chansler
Dec 10, 2009
Dec 9, 2009
Tuesday Top 5: Christmas Presents the Leafs can Place Under My Tree
I've always appreciated when friends and family have provided me with a list of gifts that they hope to receive. The completion of a gift registry has become common place for those about to tie the knot or preparing for a wonderful bundle of crying, crapping, puking and peeing joy about to enter their life. But in many circles a wish list at Christmas time is still seen as a faux pas for all those over the age of 15.
I don't really see why this is, I don't ask for anything outrageous. It's quite okay that you don't wrap a pair of platinum tickets up and place it under the tree with my name on it, but at least you know that I like hockey. I don't expect you to spend your whole paycheck on sending me to the Stanley Cup finals, just half. I'm all for the holiday wish lists, it keeps life simple, and prevents my drawers from being filled with more ugly sweaters, knitted socks, and colouful votives.
Keeping with this thought of simplicity; Maple Leafs, during this Tuesday Top 5 (though written on Wednesday) I present you with this list:
(please read responsibly)
#3. Mike Komisarek, with a Point.
33 penalty minutes, 22 shots, 21 games and still no points? I get it, you don't want to place him on your powerplay unit (not that it would make much of a difference), but how about giving him the chance to dish the puck around the offensive zone? You're keeping him fluttering around the neutral zone while on attack, and reprimand him for pinching up. It just doesn't seem fair that Gunnarsson was given all the opportunity in the world while Komisark was out, yet you still won't put Mike in a position to garner a point or two.
#2. A Healthy Carl Gunnarsson.
Talk about confidence in their younger players, Carl started playing "Luke Schenn" kind of minutes and eight games, four points, four penalty minutes and a plus four later is playing with "Ian White" ice time. With Carl in the lineup, the Leafs have five top-four blueliners (Kaberle, Komisarek, White and Beauchemin being the other four). It can't hurt on a team that is plagued with defensive inconsistancies.
#1. A 500 Record.
This might be the biggest stretch out of all my requests (job included), but I have to ask. I promise you, it's not as hard as you might think. Of the next 9 games I'm looking for six or seven wins - okay, so it might be harder than I originally planned, but we have to stay optimistic! You can drop one to Boston, one to Washington and a third to Buffalo, but that's it, no more. If a team that went seven games without registering a win can nail a 500 record at Christman, I smell post season. And honestly, isn't that the only thing most Leafs fans ask for at Christmas time?
I put it to you Leafs, here's your list. So I might be asking for a pair of Platinums, but the least you could do is give me a seat in the Reds.
I hope everyone enjoys whichever holiday they celebrate during this wintery season.
Your buddy,
Chansler
I don't really see why this is, I don't ask for anything outrageous. It's quite okay that you don't wrap a pair of platinum tickets up and place it under the tree with my name on it, but at least you know that I like hockey. I don't expect you to spend your whole paycheck on sending me to the Stanley Cup finals, just half. I'm all for the holiday wish lists, it keeps life simple, and prevents my drawers from being filled with more ugly sweaters, knitted socks, and colouful votives.
Keeping with this thought of simplicity; Maple Leafs, during this Tuesday Top 5 (though written on Wednesday) I present you with this list:
(please read responsibly)
CHRISTMAS PRESENTS THE LEAFS CAN PLACE UNDER MY TREE
#5. A Job for Both Myself and Dangle.
In keeping in the spirit of giving, I'd feel wrong asking for a job simply for myself. Besides, Steve Dangle has been working on his Leafs Fan Reaction videos (http://www.youtube.com/SteveDangle) for three years now. I on the other hand, have been pervently slaving away at promoting your farm team, the AHL's Toronto Marlies. Don't you agree that it's about time you put us up in our own fancy shmancy cubicle, replace some of the tiring talent on LeafsTV, and give some young blood a chance? I promise that we won't answer or own questions, cut the players answers off, pitch horrible segment ideas or stroke our own ego when in public. No? How about an internship?
#4. Provide Jeff Finger the Opportunity to Earn a Plus Rating.
I would hate to think that you have under estimated the work ethic and efforts of yet another member of your defense core. Next to Ian White, Finger has the highest save percentage on the team. Jeff's not afraid to drop in front of a monster slapshot, evict an aggrivating forward from the crease or lay a rushing winger out at the blue line. So how about it? Will you try bumping him up out of the 7th position on your depth chart? A little more ice time could make a load of difference.#3. Mike Komisarek, with a Point.
33 penalty minutes, 22 shots, 21 games and still no points? I get it, you don't want to place him on your powerplay unit (not that it would make much of a difference), but how about giving him the chance to dish the puck around the offensive zone? You're keeping him fluttering around the neutral zone while on attack, and reprimand him for pinching up. It just doesn't seem fair that Gunnarsson was given all the opportunity in the world while Komisark was out, yet you still won't put Mike in a position to garner a point or two.
#2. A Healthy Carl Gunnarsson.
Talk about confidence in their younger players, Carl started playing "Luke Schenn" kind of minutes and eight games, four points, four penalty minutes and a plus four later is playing with "Ian White" ice time. With Carl in the lineup, the Leafs have five top-four blueliners (Kaberle, Komisarek, White and Beauchemin being the other four). It can't hurt on a team that is plagued with defensive inconsistancies.
#1. A 500 Record.
This might be the biggest stretch out of all my requests (job included), but I have to ask. I promise you, it's not as hard as you might think. Of the next 9 games I'm looking for six or seven wins - okay, so it might be harder than I originally planned, but we have to stay optimistic! You can drop one to Boston, one to Washington and a third to Buffalo, but that's it, no more. If a team that went seven games without registering a win can nail a 500 record at Christman, I smell post season. And honestly, isn't that the only thing most Leafs fans ask for at Christmas time?
I put it to you Leafs, here's your list. So I might be asking for a pair of Platinums, but the least you could do is give me a seat in the Reds.
I hope everyone enjoys whichever holiday they celebrate during this wintery season.
Your buddy,
Chansler
Dec 5, 2009
Friday Foto: Movember
Though Movember is believed to be a month dedicated mainly to raising funds to be used in the search for a cure for colon cancer, I have a feeling the guys view this as a win-win situation. Admit it, we're always looking for a good excuse to feed the Mrs as to why we're growing facial hair; guys weekend, playoffs, movember - whatever we can get away with.
The Leafs were no exception to this fast growing charitably trend. Gustavsson opted for full facial hair while Stajan struggled to grow what little he could. Hagman's (above) clipped and trimmed furry lip possibly encouraged Ian White to trade in the hairy monster under his nose for a more reserved version. Even Colton Orr, the team bruiser, otped to toughen his image with some whiskers.
Amidst the new found feeling of team-togetherness founded under a handlebar shaped banner,emerged a new face to our Toronto hockey club (most likely sporting a bro-stache of it's own). Movember gave birth to a team a lot less willing to roll over and die. A team who believed they could win the game despite being down two goals. The newly found group of super soup-strainers could remember neither their place in the standings nor their personal +/- record.
The stats don't lie, see for yourself. To say October was a struggle would be giving the Leafs the benefit of a large doubt. The truth is the opening month of the season saw Toronto's Leafs fall behind the pack quickly with a horrific 1-7-4 record. Fans were upset, Burke was frustrated and the media was already calling the Kessel trade an abomination - even though Phil had yet to take to the ice.
Movember though, was a different story. The power of the 'stache lifted the Leafs to 6-12-7 after they made it through the month at .500 with a 5-5-3 record.
Movember also saw many of the other good numbers go up and the bad ones go down. The Leafs averaged 2.5 goals in their first 12 outings, only to trump it with a 3.08 over the following 12.
The Mo doesn't just score goals, it can stop pucks as well. October left our Buds with a miserable goals against average of precisely 4. The November stache bash shaped up that GAA to a much improved, but still not perfect, 3.23.
Be honest, it's compelling evidence. It leaves very little room for doubt in the extra abilities the player's crum cather's provide.
So what will happen now that Movember has departed and December has arrived? The players have shown no sign of ending their fuzzy lipped ways. And why should they after starting the month 2-0, out scoring their opponents 9-3 and earning the team's first shutout of the season? Looks like the trash stache is here to stay.
Dec 3, 2009
13 Thursday Thoughts: About Winter, Hockey & the Holiday's
Greetings to all on this chilly Thursday, this week has really flown by (and no, that won't count as one of 13). I'm surprised, last week's number one thought received far more attention than I originally figured it would. Hopefully this week will do the same - but on a less controversial matter.
If you're sitting at your desk hurrying to finish lunch, please don't let my babbeling hold you up. Enjoy this Thursday's edition of 13 thoughts on winter, hockey and the holiday's:
(please read responsibly)
#13 Winter has finally found it's way to Toronto. We saw our first snow dusting this week along with consitantly cold temperatures. I'm wearing a hideous sweater with the heat on and I'm still cold. Uck!
#12 Is it too early to start the Christmas countdown? Some start December first, others wait until the "ten days to go" mark. I want to be excited, but my wallet is telling me otherwise.
#11 How do fans really feel about the NHL All Star Game? I'll admit, I'm going to miss not having it this year. I enjoy the festivities, I am thrilled by the skills competition and entertained by the game itself. Ovie and Malkin were hilarious last year. So hockey fans - ASG: yay or nay?
#10 Gotta love Tampa and their ability to pretend to be in 8th place. Really, I know that's what the standings say, but look at who has been scoring. 50% of the team's 66 goals have come from Malone and Stamkos. Vinny and Marty only have five each, and Tanguay is the lone guy at four. It's 25 games into the season, and something needs to change... QUICK!
#9 A grievance was filed by the Ottawa Senators organization regarding Dany Heatley's $4 million bonus. And though I can understand where they're coming from ($4mil ain't chump change), when will owners learn that not everything can go their way. A team wants a player gone - boom, they move them, end of story. A player wants off a team and he's villianized by the organization. Just doesn't seem right.
#8 Hawks wrap up their big three this week, signing Toews and Kane to five year extensions and Keith to a whopping 13 years. I'm sorry, but any GM signing a player for over five years is simply laying an egg for whomever replacemes them down the road. Duncan's valuable, but 13 years valuable? I think more teams should consult with the Isles and ask how Dipietro's working out.
#7 Stamkos has been lighting it up for the Lightning (yes, I realize I just harped on the Bolts a few thoughts ago). Wow - 17 goals for 29 points in the opening 25 games. Can you believe Yzerman is looking to Stamkos for team Canada over Lecavalier? Stamkos proves there really isn't such thing as a "sophmore slump."
#6 While we're thinking about team Canada, one can't help but remark on the duel between Luongo and Brodeur last night. With a total of seven goals being scored between the two teams, and keeping in mind neither goalie is among the top three in the league for save percentage, goals against average, shutouts or wins this season, could it be time we hand over the reigns to someone new? I'd love to see Fleury get the start. He has won more playoff series in the past two seasons than Luongo and Brodeur have won combined in the same period. Just sayin'...
#5 Keeping on the goaltending train, what's with the Leafs and their current inability to keep a healthy goaltender? MLSE just reported that Gustavsson will need another surgery to hopefully correct his irratic heart rate. Top to bottom (including tenders signed by the Marlies) the Leafs have seen four of five goalies injured in this young season with three presently listed on the IR. Who's up for calling Gerber back from the KHL? Anybody? How about calling Joseph from retirement?
#4 Ahh, one can't talk about winter without thinking about the Winter Classic. This year Boston and Philly will square off, touque's and all. I have to give Bettman and the NHL credit, I can think of no better way to spend my hung over New Year's Day. I just wish it didn't start so dang early.
#3 Team Canada has released its WJC camp roster. I'm excited to see ones like Ellis, Pietrangelo, Cormier, Eberle and Hodgson return after experiencing the gold medal win last year. At the same time I feel confident in our large number of new comers. Schenn, Kadri, Lalonde, Cowen, de Haan, Seguin and of course Hall are definitely fit to carry the Canada torch and lead us into a sixth straight win. Can't wait!
#2 Alexander Ovechkin received a two game suspension after his second game eviction in three contests, this time for a knee-on-knee collision. If you ask me Ovie wasn't "hunting" at all, but given his wreckless track record (most notably when he took out Gonchar in the playoffs last season) two games is fair. Will he smarten up? My money's on "No."
#1 And who deserves the top spot on this list of thoughts? Keith the bone-head Ballard. If you haven't already seen the YouTube video of him hitting a T-ball homer off Vokoun's neck, I suggest you stop what you're doing and find it now. Should he be suspended? Definitely. I know he's sorry, and I know he didn't mean to, but this kind of irrationable behaviour screams a lack of self-control. Wreckless is not the name of the game in the NHL, and Ballard should learn the hard way. Sit two games, forfeit some cash to the player's injury piggy-bank (or whatever it is they call it) and reflect over how dumb you are. His actions were unacceptable, whether having hit Vokoun or not.
And that's a wrap. I'll be back at it tomorrow with another Friday Foto, and to be honest I'm yet to choose one. I guess that's my homework for the evening.
Until next time, stay online!
Your buddy,
Chansler
If you're sitting at your desk hurrying to finish lunch, please don't let my babbeling hold you up. Enjoy this Thursday's edition of 13 thoughts on winter, hockey and the holiday's:
(please read responsibly)
#13 Winter has finally found it's way to Toronto. We saw our first snow dusting this week along with consitantly cold temperatures. I'm wearing a hideous sweater with the heat on and I'm still cold. Uck!
#12 Is it too early to start the Christmas countdown? Some start December first, others wait until the "ten days to go" mark. I want to be excited, but my wallet is telling me otherwise.
#11 How do fans really feel about the NHL All Star Game? I'll admit, I'm going to miss not having it this year. I enjoy the festivities, I am thrilled by the skills competition and entertained by the game itself. Ovie and Malkin were hilarious last year. So hockey fans - ASG: yay or nay?
#10 Gotta love Tampa and their ability to pretend to be in 8th place. Really, I know that's what the standings say, but look at who has been scoring. 50% of the team's 66 goals have come from Malone and Stamkos. Vinny and Marty only have five each, and Tanguay is the lone guy at four. It's 25 games into the season, and something needs to change... QUICK!
#9 A grievance was filed by the Ottawa Senators organization regarding Dany Heatley's $4 million bonus. And though I can understand where they're coming from ($4mil ain't chump change), when will owners learn that not everything can go their way. A team wants a player gone - boom, they move them, end of story. A player wants off a team and he's villianized by the organization. Just doesn't seem right.
#8 Hawks wrap up their big three this week, signing Toews and Kane to five year extensions and Keith to a whopping 13 years. I'm sorry, but any GM signing a player for over five years is simply laying an egg for whomever replacemes them down the road. Duncan's valuable, but 13 years valuable? I think more teams should consult with the Isles and ask how Dipietro's working out.
#7 Stamkos has been lighting it up for the Lightning (yes, I realize I just harped on the Bolts a few thoughts ago). Wow - 17 goals for 29 points in the opening 25 games. Can you believe Yzerman is looking to Stamkos for team Canada over Lecavalier? Stamkos proves there really isn't such thing as a "sophmore slump."
#6 While we're thinking about team Canada, one can't help but remark on the duel between Luongo and Brodeur last night. With a total of seven goals being scored between the two teams, and keeping in mind neither goalie is among the top three in the league for save percentage, goals against average, shutouts or wins this season, could it be time we hand over the reigns to someone new? I'd love to see Fleury get the start. He has won more playoff series in the past two seasons than Luongo and Brodeur have won combined in the same period. Just sayin'...
#5 Keeping on the goaltending train, what's with the Leafs and their current inability to keep a healthy goaltender? MLSE just reported that Gustavsson will need another surgery to hopefully correct his irratic heart rate. Top to bottom (including tenders signed by the Marlies) the Leafs have seen four of five goalies injured in this young season with three presently listed on the IR. Who's up for calling Gerber back from the KHL? Anybody? How about calling Joseph from retirement?
#4 Ahh, one can't talk about winter without thinking about the Winter Classic. This year Boston and Philly will square off, touque's and all. I have to give Bettman and the NHL credit, I can think of no better way to spend my hung over New Year's Day. I just wish it didn't start so dang early.
#3 Team Canada has released its WJC camp roster. I'm excited to see ones like Ellis, Pietrangelo, Cormier, Eberle and Hodgson return after experiencing the gold medal win last year. At the same time I feel confident in our large number of new comers. Schenn, Kadri, Lalonde, Cowen, de Haan, Seguin and of course Hall are definitely fit to carry the Canada torch and lead us into a sixth straight win. Can't wait!
#2 Alexander Ovechkin received a two game suspension after his second game eviction in three contests, this time for a knee-on-knee collision. If you ask me Ovie wasn't "hunting" at all, but given his wreckless track record (most notably when he took out Gonchar in the playoffs last season) two games is fair. Will he smarten up? My money's on "No."
#1 And who deserves the top spot on this list of thoughts? Keith the bone-head Ballard. If you haven't already seen the YouTube video of him hitting a T-ball homer off Vokoun's neck, I suggest you stop what you're doing and find it now. Should he be suspended? Definitely. I know he's sorry, and I know he didn't mean to, but this kind of irrationable behaviour screams a lack of self-control. Wreckless is not the name of the game in the NHL, and Ballard should learn the hard way. Sit two games, forfeit some cash to the player's injury piggy-bank (or whatever it is they call it) and reflect over how dumb you are. His actions were unacceptable, whether having hit Vokoun or not.
And that's a wrap. I'll be back at it tomorrow with another Friday Foto, and to be honest I'm yet to choose one. I guess that's my homework for the evening.
Until next time, stay online!
Your buddy,
Chansler
Dec 1, 2009
Tuesday's Top 5: Drafted & Departed Leafs
Near the start of the season on Hockey Night in Canada, CBC shared a statistic regarding the link between a team's sticking with prospects and the winning of the Stanley Cup; 24 of the past 25 teams to win the Cup did so with at least ten players on their roster that had been with the team since draft day. Ten players - that's half of the guys on the ice.
And really, this stat makes perfect sense. During one of the most pivotol points of a player's career, their introduction to professional hockey, they develop in the same atmosphere and with much of the same direction as their future teammates either had or will have. The Leafs' are currently not doing as bad in this respect as one might think. If we were to include the presently injured Mitchell and Gunnarsson, the Leafs have nine players on their roster that have been drafted and introduced to North American professional hockey by MLSE.
It would stand to reason that if the Leafs wish to bring the Stanley Cup back to Toronto, then the rentension and development of these drafted players would be of a high importance. But in recent years (recent being 16 or so), the running joke between Toronto hockey fans is that we've come to expect players drafted by our team to excel once being traded.
So I put this theory to test. I looked at all active TML drafted NHL'ers, compared stats from before and after they were traded and looked at the value they hold to their present team.
Having been selected in 1994, Fredrik Modin is the most veteran active NHL player drafted by the Maple Leafs. Including those that were selected the same year as this 6'3" Swede, the Leafs have drafted 128 prospects, 47 of which have played at least one game in the NHL, 27 are currently still playing in the NHL or AHL, and 11 of those are in the Leafs system. Out of the 16 remaining professional athletes, here's my Tuesday's Top 5:
#4. Carlo Colaiacovo (17th, 2001)
Those of you who read last week's Tuesday's Top Five Unwelcome Leafs, you already know how I feel about the trade that sent Carlo and Alex Steen to St. Louis for Lee Stempniak. If you are one of the few that disagree, what would you say if I told you that Carlo's production on the Blues last year equalled that of Stempniak's contribution to the Leafs? Ouch. I'll trade you my Van Ryn for your Colaiacovo - heck, you can even have Stempniak back.
#3. Nikolai Antropov (10th, 1997)
Word on the street is that Burke's looking for a towering first line forward to centre Kessel and create net presence - hmmm. Nik is on pace for 80pts this year, and though all of us in Toronto know that he'll probably cut out around 60, was he really worth a deadline day deal that only brought in the Rangers' 2nd round pick? Leafs staff swore up and down that he was their guy if he could manage to stay healthy - well MLSE, he played 72 games in 07/08 and 81 in 08/09 and set career highs for points both times. Thanks.
#2. Tuukka Rask (21st, 2005)
Andrew Raycroft - need I say anymore? My favourite part of this trade is that the Leafs fans hated it from the minute it happened. Rask was noted to be the top goaltending prospects of not only his draft class, but the ones that surrounded it as well. On a team that had lost All-Star goaltender's Belfour and Joseph, and had seen success when drafting and developing goaltenders in the past (Felix Potvin), you would think the Leafs would want to have a couple goalies sitting in the wings at various stages of development. Sure, we already had Pogge - but how did that turn out? In his only game last year, Rask made 35 saves for a shutout. And this year? 11 games with a GAA of 2.02 and a .930 SV%. I'm no mathematician, but I'm pretty sure there isn't a single Leafs' goalie (NHL or otherwise) with numbers this impressive. I'll say it once again - Andrew Racroft.
#1. Brad Boyes (24th, 2000)
What irritates me the most is four of the five players on this list were selected in the first round, and not a single one of the trades brought in long term benefit (though the Antropov trade is a little early to judge). Who knew Brad Boyes was selected by the Leafs, anyone? Now can anyone tell me Boyes' point production in his rookie season? Sixty-nine (I type it out for emphasis). Last season Boyes, a good local boy from Mississauga, was a 30 goal scorer (33, actually) and ended the season with 72 points and playoff bound, the same season the Leafs lost 21 games by a single goal and missed the playoffs by 12 points - just sayin'.
Everyone agree's that hindsight is 20/20, but first round'ers? Common Leafs, you have to show us something better than that. And to the Leaf fans, I would think twice before you skoff at Jiri Tlusty and wonder why he is yet to be traded. Though drafted in 2000, Boyes did not see his first full season of NHL play until 05/06.
It takes time to develop a Stanley Cup winner. The fans of Toronto have shown their patience, I think it's about time management does the same.
Your buddy,
Chansler
And really, this stat makes perfect sense. During one of the most pivotol points of a player's career, their introduction to professional hockey, they develop in the same atmosphere and with much of the same direction as their future teammates either had or will have. The Leafs' are currently not doing as bad in this respect as one might think. If we were to include the presently injured Mitchell and Gunnarsson, the Leafs have nine players on their roster that have been drafted and introduced to North American professional hockey by MLSE.
It would stand to reason that if the Leafs wish to bring the Stanley Cup back to Toronto, then the rentension and development of these drafted players would be of a high importance. But in recent years (recent being 16 or so), the running joke between Toronto hockey fans is that we've come to expect players drafted by our team to excel once being traded.
So I put this theory to test. I looked at all active TML drafted NHL'ers, compared stats from before and after they were traded and looked at the value they hold to their present team.
Having been selected in 1994, Fredrik Modin is the most veteran active NHL player drafted by the Maple Leafs. Including those that were selected the same year as this 6'3" Swede, the Leafs have drafted 128 prospects, 47 of which have played at least one game in the NHL, 27 are currently still playing in the NHL or AHL, and 11 of those are in the Leafs system. Out of the 16 remaining professional athletes, here's my Tuesday's Top 5:
(please read responsibly)
DRAFTED & DEPARTED LEAFS
#5. Anton Stralman (216th, 2005)
Stralman had as many Toronto fans cheering for him, as he played minutes in a game. But since being traded to the Blue Jackets, Anton's value has both been realized and appreciated. First and foremost he has received a permanent spot on the Columbus roster, something he never found in Toronto. His being placed on the second defensive pairing as well as the powerplay unit has resulted in a point production that puts him on pace for 60 this season. I don't want to name names, or point fingers - but I know a certain alternate captain picked up from Anaheim that I'd gladly give up for this former Leafs' draftee.
#4. Carlo Colaiacovo (17th, 2001)
Those of you who read last week's Tuesday's Top Five Unwelcome Leafs, you already know how I feel about the trade that sent Carlo and Alex Steen to St. Louis for Lee Stempniak. If you are one of the few that disagree, what would you say if I told you that Carlo's production on the Blues last year equalled that of Stempniak's contribution to the Leafs? Ouch. I'll trade you my Van Ryn for your Colaiacovo - heck, you can even have Stempniak back.
#3. Nikolai Antropov (10th, 1997)
Word on the street is that Burke's looking for a towering first line forward to centre Kessel and create net presence - hmmm. Nik is on pace for 80pts this year, and though all of us in Toronto know that he'll probably cut out around 60, was he really worth a deadline day deal that only brought in the Rangers' 2nd round pick? Leafs staff swore up and down that he was their guy if he could manage to stay healthy - well MLSE, he played 72 games in 07/08 and 81 in 08/09 and set career highs for points both times. Thanks.
#2. Tuukka Rask (21st, 2005)
Andrew Raycroft - need I say anymore? My favourite part of this trade is that the Leafs fans hated it from the minute it happened. Rask was noted to be the top goaltending prospects of not only his draft class, but the ones that surrounded it as well. On a team that had lost All-Star goaltender's Belfour and Joseph, and had seen success when drafting and developing goaltenders in the past (Felix Potvin), you would think the Leafs would want to have a couple goalies sitting in the wings at various stages of development. Sure, we already had Pogge - but how did that turn out? In his only game last year, Rask made 35 saves for a shutout. And this year? 11 games with a GAA of 2.02 and a .930 SV%. I'm no mathematician, but I'm pretty sure there isn't a single Leafs' goalie (NHL or otherwise) with numbers this impressive. I'll say it once again - Andrew Racroft.
#1. Brad Boyes (24th, 2000)
What irritates me the most is four of the five players on this list were selected in the first round, and not a single one of the trades brought in long term benefit (though the Antropov trade is a little early to judge). Who knew Brad Boyes was selected by the Leafs, anyone? Now can anyone tell me Boyes' point production in his rookie season? Sixty-nine (I type it out for emphasis). Last season Boyes, a good local boy from Mississauga, was a 30 goal scorer (33, actually) and ended the season with 72 points and playoff bound, the same season the Leafs lost 21 games by a single goal and missed the playoffs by 12 points - just sayin'.
Everyone agree's that hindsight is 20/20, but first round'ers? Common Leafs, you have to show us something better than that. And to the Leaf fans, I would think twice before you skoff at Jiri Tlusty and wonder why he is yet to be traded. Though drafted in 2000, Boyes did not see his first full season of NHL play until 05/06.
It takes time to develop a Stanley Cup winner. The fans of Toronto have shown their patience, I think it's about time management does the same.
Your buddy,
Chansler
Nov 27, 2009
The Friday Foto: Toronto's Maple Leafs
It's Friday, we have all put in a long week and there is no energy left to skim over, let alone delve into, a heavy hard-hitting blog. The Friday Foto is short, simple, sweet and generally light hearted in nature. Nothing that is too hard to handle, and something that will hopefully end your Friday with a smile.
Please enjoy today's Foto (I spell it with the F because I'm cool like that) featuring the Maple Leafs' Lee Stempniak.
(please read responsibly)
Toronto may not have put together the most skilled team for the 2009/2010 season (please guys, prove me wrong), but Cliff Fletcher and Brian Burke have exceeded at bringing in guys that fit well with the team mandate to always be giving to the community.
Blue and white draftees Luke Schenn, Nazem Kadri and Jesse Blacker quickly embraced the community by appearing at several Toronto charity events. Luke Schenn stepped above many of his draft year comrades and organized Luke's Troops, a fund that provides members of Canada's armed forces the opportunity to attend Leaf games with Schenn picking up the tab.
Lee Stempniak, Jamal Mayers and Matt Stajan have all taken hold of their commitment to the community by frequently spending time with the younger generation. They have extended themselves to children at Sick Kids Hospital, little tykes that visit the ACC with Easter Seals and all the rugrats found in the GTA. Truly an admirable undertaking.
Even one of the most recent heavy weight additions, Mike Komisarek, has developed quite the repoire with Torontonians after lending his support to the Pancreatic Cancer Canada team running in the "5K Your Way" benefiting the Princess Margaret Hospital. Komi shared the story of his mother's battle with cancer, made a considerable donation and met with the team after the run had concluded at Queen's Park.
The Leafs have yet to show that their locker room is filled with those that have what it takes to be leaders in the standings, but their ability to be leaders in the community is abundantly recognized.
Thanks MLSE, for employing fun guys, recruiting good guys, and for having one of the league's sickest logo's (I had to throw that in).
Talk to you all Sunday.
Your buddy,
Chansler
Please enjoy today's Foto (I spell it with the F because I'm cool like that) featuring the Maple Leafs' Lee Stempniak.
(please read responsibly)
Toronto may not have put together the most skilled team for the 2009/2010 season (please guys, prove me wrong), but Cliff Fletcher and Brian Burke have exceeded at bringing in guys that fit well with the team mandate to always be giving to the community.
Blue and white draftees Luke Schenn, Nazem Kadri and Jesse Blacker quickly embraced the community by appearing at several Toronto charity events. Luke Schenn stepped above many of his draft year comrades and organized Luke's Troops, a fund that provides members of Canada's armed forces the opportunity to attend Leaf games with Schenn picking up the tab.
Lee Stempniak, Jamal Mayers and Matt Stajan have all taken hold of their commitment to the community by frequently spending time with the younger generation. They have extended themselves to children at Sick Kids Hospital, little tykes that visit the ACC with Easter Seals and all the rugrats found in the GTA. Truly an admirable undertaking.
Even one of the most recent heavy weight additions, Mike Komisarek, has developed quite the repoire with Torontonians after lending his support to the Pancreatic Cancer Canada team running in the "5K Your Way" benefiting the Princess Margaret Hospital. Komi shared the story of his mother's battle with cancer, made a considerable donation and met with the team after the run had concluded at Queen's Park.
The Leafs have yet to show that their locker room is filled with those that have what it takes to be leaders in the standings, but their ability to be leaders in the community is abundantly recognized.
Thanks MLSE, for employing fun guys, recruiting good guys, and for having one of the league's sickest logo's (I had to throw that in).
Talk to you all Sunday.
Your buddy,
Chansler
Nov 26, 2009
13 Thursday Thoughts: From Around the NHL
You know those random thoughts that pop into your head, we all have them. The ones that are worth putting out there but are to under developed to deserve more than a paragraph. These are the thoughts often left to Twitter and the myriads of readers it indulges. These are the thoughts that will be left for you to read, in their raw fledgling form, every Thursday.
I'm going to propose an order of importance to each of these thoughts, though realistically there is usually only one prominent thought on my mind leaving numbers 2-13 with fairly equal value.
Please, don't let me hold you up. Here are my 13 Thursday thoughts from around the NHL:
(please read responsibly)
#13 It's really a shame that the NHL couldn't put together something for hockey fans on American Thanksgiving. I'm not looking for anything special, we don't need a corn field game or all-day college hockey, but wouldn't it be nice to have an American original six matchup to watch and provide us with some non-football options?
#12 Yeah, we all know JT is amazing (Tavares, that is - but Timberlake is pretty rad too). He shocked me with his production, I really thought he would've been a Stamkos in his first pro season. But as of late it is Trent Hunter who has grabbed my attention on the Isle's squad. TH is averaging over point a game and a +/- on the good side.
#11 No need for Malkin to ease back into post-injury play. Since returning in early November, Evgeni has posted an average of 1.3 pts/g, a surprising increase over 1.1 in his first 12. Now if only my bracket pool didn't award two points per goal and only one for an assist, I'd be flying!
#10 Being an Eastern Conference'r, the headlines aren't really flooded with tales of western heroics. Because of this I hesitate to call this next team Silent but Deadly, but I will anyway. The Nashville Predators have the second best record over the past 10 games (8-2-0), second only to the Chicago super-Hawks (8-1-1). The Preds have won their last seven, but I fail to see them anywhere in the paper. Imagine they had been moved to Hamilton.
#9 Is it just me, or have the New Jersey Devils fallen off the face of the earth? With an unbelievable 9-2-1 record on the road (matched with a winning record at home), I'm surprised all the conference hype is spent on the Pens, Flyers, Rangers and Isles. Do we just expect New Jersey to be this good every year?
#8 Carolina is back in the basement and the Raleigh team is already 11 points back of a playoff spot. It blows my mind that the same team who defeated New Jersey and Boston in last year's playoffs, and then made minimal off-season changes, is this far out so early. Will Rutherford bid farewell to Maurice for a second time?
#7 And you wanted to move Phoenix (the second time I've spoken about relocation today). The Coyotes are tied for 8th in the West and are on the plus side off 500. Heck, with how Toronto has been playing I'll buy a Yotes jerz! I bet you could probably fly to Phoenix, purchase two glass tickets and a hotel room for less than Toronto platinums.
#6 Hey Wings, "Wha' Happen?" I really start to worry about a team when they're shutout by Atlanta! Currently holding the 9th spot in the West, Detroit is looking up on Phoenix, Columbus, Nashville and Colorado - who would'a thought?
#5 Chicago's an offensive atomic bomb, blowing out opponent after opponent. The Hawks have scored five or more goals in three of their last four, all the while being the visiting team! Talk about setting a new standard of excellence. In fact, Chicago has won eight straight potting at least four goals in five of them. And did I mention their 7-2 win last night was against San Jose? Sheesh.
#4 Antero Niittymaki leads the league in save percentage. I'm just as shocked as you are, trust me.
#3 Boston needs Lucic, they struggled without him. And to remind everyone of his worth, Milan scores his first night back in the black-and-gold. Sounds good, right? Wrong. Lucic is out again after only a couple games back, this time with a knee injury. And I thought this was going to be Boston's year.
#2 Five minutes and a game misconduct for Ovechkin's hit last night as the refs rule it as being delivered from behind. Is the league getting tighter, or are the refs just getting dumber? This was maybe worth two minutes, emphasis on maybe. Boudreau would have a pretty good case fighting against a minor penalty in this situation. But they always say the sweetest revenge is that which is dealt on the scoreboard. Ovie had already scored and his talley is later accredited as the game winner.
#1 Dear Brian Burke, your team is fighting to stay out of last place. Though adding Phil Kessel to the line-up, the Leafs have been unable to match the offensive production of last year's failed season. And remember those big blue line aquisitions you made over the summer? We're still waiting! Until now, you have a rookie battling with the guy you slated as seventh in the depth chart for the title of best Leafs d-man. But amidst all this failure and controversy, I'm glad you're using the 16 minutes of air time on TSN to speak about your son coming out of the closet. Next week Burke will address the media regarding the use of black and white stick tape, proposing the league unite under a single, non-discriminatory colour of cloth tape with which players can tape their equipment with. Oh please.
I'll see you all tomorrow for the Friday Foto.
Until next time, stay online!
Your buddy,
Chansler
I'm going to propose an order of importance to each of these thoughts, though realistically there is usually only one prominent thought on my mind leaving numbers 2-13 with fairly equal value.
Please, don't let me hold you up. Here are my 13 Thursday thoughts from around the NHL:
(please read responsibly)
#13 It's really a shame that the NHL couldn't put together something for hockey fans on American Thanksgiving. I'm not looking for anything special, we don't need a corn field game or all-day college hockey, but wouldn't it be nice to have an American original six matchup to watch and provide us with some non-football options?
#12 Yeah, we all know JT is amazing (Tavares, that is - but Timberlake is pretty rad too). He shocked me with his production, I really thought he would've been a Stamkos in his first pro season. But as of late it is Trent Hunter who has grabbed my attention on the Isle's squad. TH is averaging over point a game and a +/- on the good side.
#11 No need for Malkin to ease back into post-injury play. Since returning in early November, Evgeni has posted an average of 1.3 pts/g, a surprising increase over 1.1 in his first 12. Now if only my bracket pool didn't award two points per goal and only one for an assist, I'd be flying!
#10 Being an Eastern Conference'r, the headlines aren't really flooded with tales of western heroics. Because of this I hesitate to call this next team Silent but Deadly, but I will anyway. The Nashville Predators have the second best record over the past 10 games (8-2-0), second only to the Chicago super-Hawks (8-1-1). The Preds have won their last seven, but I fail to see them anywhere in the paper. Imagine they had been moved to Hamilton.
#9 Is it just me, or have the New Jersey Devils fallen off the face of the earth? With an unbelievable 9-2-1 record on the road (matched with a winning record at home), I'm surprised all the conference hype is spent on the Pens, Flyers, Rangers and Isles. Do we just expect New Jersey to be this good every year?
#8 Carolina is back in the basement and the Raleigh team is already 11 points back of a playoff spot. It blows my mind that the same team who defeated New Jersey and Boston in last year's playoffs, and then made minimal off-season changes, is this far out so early. Will Rutherford bid farewell to Maurice for a second time?
#7 And you wanted to move Phoenix (the second time I've spoken about relocation today). The Coyotes are tied for 8th in the West and are on the plus side off 500. Heck, with how Toronto has been playing I'll buy a Yotes jerz! I bet you could probably fly to Phoenix, purchase two glass tickets and a hotel room for less than Toronto platinums.
#6 Hey Wings, "Wha' Happen?" I really start to worry about a team when they're shutout by Atlanta! Currently holding the 9th spot in the West, Detroit is looking up on Phoenix, Columbus, Nashville and Colorado - who would'a thought?
#5 Chicago's an offensive atomic bomb, blowing out opponent after opponent. The Hawks have scored five or more goals in three of their last four, all the while being the visiting team! Talk about setting a new standard of excellence. In fact, Chicago has won eight straight potting at least four goals in five of them. And did I mention their 7-2 win last night was against San Jose? Sheesh.
#4 Antero Niittymaki leads the league in save percentage. I'm just as shocked as you are, trust me.
#3 Boston needs Lucic, they struggled without him. And to remind everyone of his worth, Milan scores his first night back in the black-and-gold. Sounds good, right? Wrong. Lucic is out again after only a couple games back, this time with a knee injury. And I thought this was going to be Boston's year.
#2 Five minutes and a game misconduct for Ovechkin's hit last night as the refs rule it as being delivered from behind. Is the league getting tighter, or are the refs just getting dumber? This was maybe worth two minutes, emphasis on maybe. Boudreau would have a pretty good case fighting against a minor penalty in this situation. But they always say the sweetest revenge is that which is dealt on the scoreboard. Ovie had already scored and his talley is later accredited as the game winner.
#1 Dear Brian Burke, your team is fighting to stay out of last place. Though adding Phil Kessel to the line-up, the Leafs have been unable to match the offensive production of last year's failed season. And remember those big blue line aquisitions you made over the summer? We're still waiting! Until now, you have a rookie battling with the guy you slated as seventh in the depth chart for the title of best Leafs d-man. But amidst all this failure and controversy, I'm glad you're using the 16 minutes of air time on TSN to speak about your son coming out of the closet. Next week Burke will address the media regarding the use of black and white stick tape, proposing the league unite under a single, non-discriminatory colour of cloth tape with which players can tape their equipment with. Oh please.
I'll see you all tomorrow for the Friday Foto.
Until next time, stay online!
Your buddy,
Chansler
Nov 24, 2009
Tuesday's Top 5: Unwelcome Leafs
When it comes to hockey, Toronto fans are in a league of their own. Never before have I seen a city that can collectively (1) praise every mundane stride or every pass a mediocre player makes, (2) hold a member of the blue-and-white hockey club to an unattainably high standard, or (3) completely ignore the very existance of a member of their beloved NHL franchise.
It is to the players that fans have relegated to the latter categories that I dedicate this blog. Readers, welcome to the unwelcome list. Any of the below mentioned five could post career years this season, yet their jersey's will generate sales far less than Wade Belak and relatively equal to Aki Berg or Alan Bester.
So without any further hesitation, please enjoy this week's top five:
(please read responsibly)
#5. Mike Van Ryn
Does anyone even remember that Van Ryn is part of this year's club? If you want to talk about unfortunate, Mike Van Ryn's your guy. After spending the better part of the previous two seasons out of action with various injuries, fans had long given up on this blue liner. Imagine the surprise when news was released that #26 wouldn't play at all this year due to season ending knee surgery - hmph. It seems like this was the perfect merechino cherry topping on this wrecked beef cake's career. Oh yeah, I'd trade Bryan McCabe and a 4th rounder for him too.
#4. Jamal Mayers
It's not like John Pohl cast a large shadow over the #21 that Mayers had to live up to. But right out of the gate fans believed the 2008 third round pick we gave up for this 1993 third round'er was far to steep a price to pay. And can you really blame them? This Toronto native has not put up impressive numbers in any one category since his 129 PIM's with St. Louis in 05/06. Mayer's 82 PIM's last year did not add any more grit than his 16 points added secondary scoring. Actually, his 16 points was the worst among all Leafs that played an equal amount of games. Both Mathieu Brodeur and Ian Schultz went in the 2008 third round... Just Sayin'.
#3. Rickard Wallin
Wallin is openly known as the player packaged with Gustavsson to get the Monster to sign in Toronto. I would hazard to guess that less than a third of all Leaf fans could even tell me what number this fourth liner wears on his jersey. The truth is this 6th round Phoenix selection disappeared off the NHL radar in 2004, and is yet to return. Rumour has it that Rickard used to be an offensive powerhouse, which is hard to believe after he has registered just two assists in 20 games. But Burke said Wallin has reinvented himself as a defensive centre. If that's the case, his -5 rating must be wrong. I'd like to insert a comical Swedish joke here, but I honestly can't think of one.
#2. Lee Stempniak
Am I the only one that finds the trade for Stempniak a tad suspicious? Cliff Fletcher was under a week away from being replaced by Brian Burke when he sent Colaiacovo and Steen to St. Louis for Stempniak. I would like to hope that I'm not the lone Toronto hockey fan that noticed both Colaiacovo and Steen were first round selections, while Lee was a 5th round guy. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure many great hockey players have come out of the 5th round, but Stempniak? Really? Well maybe he was brought in for his chemistry with former teammate Jamal Mayers. Nope, that's not it. Funny how both Stempniak and Mayers made it on this list.
But no matter how unwanted or unwelcome the previous four are, no one can compare to our number one.
#1. Jason Blake
Last season I was able to scrape together enough to attend more Leaf games than ever before. During each and every one of these visits, several of my balcony sitting, beer drinking, green section commrades boo'ed and heckled Jason Blake's lack of skill and effort. While watching the game the other night, my companion referred to Blake's style of play as being similar to a cannon ball. He wrecklessly bombs around the rink at retardedly high speeds, and often ends each shift by crashing into a seemingly unmoveable object. Blake's career too is like a cannonball, making a big splash in a contract year to score 40 goals only to later sink to the bottom. Toronto's ever wise JFJ swoops in and "steals" Blake away for $20 million over five years. Does Toronto ever look farther than the end of their nose when scouting a player? Maybe they would have noticed Blake had never before posted more than 28 goals. In fact from 1998-2006, Blake's total NHL production had not even brought him to the 100 goal plateau. Maybe his cannonball splash would explain his inability to attain the fans incredibly high expectaions (well that and the $4 million/year price tag). But if you ask me, forget the cannonball because this sounds a lot more like a JFJ belly flop.
So there you have it, the first top five list of the 2009/2010 season. Do you have a Top 5 Unwelcome Leaf list of your own? You should send it to me, I'm always up for a good musing.
Your Buddy,
Chansler
It is to the players that fans have relegated to the latter categories that I dedicate this blog. Readers, welcome to the unwelcome list. Any of the below mentioned five could post career years this season, yet their jersey's will generate sales far less than Wade Belak and relatively equal to Aki Berg or Alan Bester.
So without any further hesitation, please enjoy this week's top five:
(please read responsibly)
UNWELCOME LEAFS
#5. Mike Van Ryn
Does anyone even remember that Van Ryn is part of this year's club? If you want to talk about unfortunate, Mike Van Ryn's your guy. After spending the better part of the previous two seasons out of action with various injuries, fans had long given up on this blue liner. Imagine the surprise when news was released that #26 wouldn't play at all this year due to season ending knee surgery - hmph. It seems like this was the perfect merechino cherry topping on this wrecked beef cake's career. Oh yeah, I'd trade Bryan McCabe and a 4th rounder for him too.
#4. Jamal Mayers
It's not like John Pohl cast a large shadow over the #21 that Mayers had to live up to. But right out of the gate fans believed the 2008 third round pick we gave up for this 1993 third round'er was far to steep a price to pay. And can you really blame them? This Toronto native has not put up impressive numbers in any one category since his 129 PIM's with St. Louis in 05/06. Mayer's 82 PIM's last year did not add any more grit than his 16 points added secondary scoring. Actually, his 16 points was the worst among all Leafs that played an equal amount of games. Both Mathieu Brodeur and Ian Schultz went in the 2008 third round... Just Sayin'.
#3. Rickard Wallin
Wallin is openly known as the player packaged with Gustavsson to get the Monster to sign in Toronto. I would hazard to guess that less than a third of all Leaf fans could even tell me what number this fourth liner wears on his jersey. The truth is this 6th round Phoenix selection disappeared off the NHL radar in 2004, and is yet to return. Rumour has it that Rickard used to be an offensive powerhouse, which is hard to believe after he has registered just two assists in 20 games. But Burke said Wallin has reinvented himself as a defensive centre. If that's the case, his -5 rating must be wrong. I'd like to insert a comical Swedish joke here, but I honestly can't think of one.
#2. Lee Stempniak
Am I the only one that finds the trade for Stempniak a tad suspicious? Cliff Fletcher was under a week away from being replaced by Brian Burke when he sent Colaiacovo and Steen to St. Louis for Stempniak. I would like to hope that I'm not the lone Toronto hockey fan that noticed both Colaiacovo and Steen were first round selections, while Lee was a 5th round guy. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure many great hockey players have come out of the 5th round, but Stempniak? Really? Well maybe he was brought in for his chemistry with former teammate Jamal Mayers. Nope, that's not it. Funny how both Stempniak and Mayers made it on this list.
But no matter how unwanted or unwelcome the previous four are, no one can compare to our number one.
#1. Jason Blake
Last season I was able to scrape together enough to attend more Leaf games than ever before. During each and every one of these visits, several of my balcony sitting, beer drinking, green section commrades boo'ed and heckled Jason Blake's lack of skill and effort. While watching the game the other night, my companion referred to Blake's style of play as being similar to a cannon ball. He wrecklessly bombs around the rink at retardedly high speeds, and often ends each shift by crashing into a seemingly unmoveable object. Blake's career too is like a cannonball, making a big splash in a contract year to score 40 goals only to later sink to the bottom. Toronto's ever wise JFJ swoops in and "steals" Blake away for $20 million over five years. Does Toronto ever look farther than the end of their nose when scouting a player? Maybe they would have noticed Blake had never before posted more than 28 goals. In fact from 1998-2006, Blake's total NHL production had not even brought him to the 100 goal plateau. Maybe his cannonball splash would explain his inability to attain the fans incredibly high expectaions (well that and the $4 million/year price tag). But if you ask me, forget the cannonball because this sounds a lot more like a JFJ belly flop.
So there you have it, the first top five list of the 2009/2010 season. Do you have a Top 5 Unwelcome Leaf list of your own? You should send it to me, I'm always up for a good musing.
Your Buddy,
Chansler
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