Gameday

[charlio lemieux]

From mapleleafs.com (http://www.mapleleafs.com/home.ml)

The Maple Leafs get back into preseason action Thurday night against the Montreal Canadiens at Air Canada Centre (7:30 p.m., LEAFS TV, AM640). Jason Allison, who has been working through a hip flexor issue, will not make his Leaf debut tonight but hold off as a precautionary measure. He may play Saturday. Don't forget Gameday gets underway at 6:30 p.m..


What is with Allison? If this is a repeat of his LA performance just cut him.

[Newfie John]

From mapleleafs.com (http://www.mapleleafs.com/home.ml)




What is with Allison? If this is a repeat of his LA performance just cut him.

Quite the opposite. In LA he played through his concerns making it worse. He's been practicing for 2 days now, but has yet to play a game. He's fine for now.

[leaferfan87]

If it'll keep Allison healthy for the regular season I'm all for it, but I would like to see him get into a few playoff games so that he can get into the groove and so Quinn can evaluate who he might play well with.

[The Insider]

If it'll keep Allison healthy for the regular season I'm all for it, but I would like to see him get into a few playoff games so that he can get into the groove and so Quinn can evaluate who he might play well with.

Someone's getting a little ahead of himself. :D

In order for Allison to have any value to us he needs to be healthy, and risking his health in a meaningless preseason game for the sake of nothing is not worth a year of nagging injuries. I say keep him out for however long it takes for him to be healthy enough to play. His health should be #1 priority over preseason games.

[KB in Kelowna]

Personally I love Hab vs Leaf games, especially when both teams are competative. There were some good series in the late 70's that I recall.

[Madferret]

Should be a fun game to watch, I'm loving this free LeafsTV thing for these freebie games, plus CI is also playing preseason games. FFS, I actually made a PROLINE ticket for tonight?s hockey games....seems like years since I've been able to do that. :eek:

MTL vs. TOR is always a classic rivalry, better be better then the snoozer Bruin blow-out the other night.

[bluemeanie]

I'm loving this free LeafsTV... MTL vs. TOR is always a classic rivalry, better be better then the snoozer Bruin blow-out the other night.

You'll probably get your money's worth... It's not the rivalry it once was, that's for sure. I'd enjoy a Sens, Flyers, Detroit or Jersey game over a habs game any day. I've always loved/hated the habs... but, they haven't had the quality team it takes to make a good rivalry over the past 5, 6 seasons. They look to be good this year, and hopefully, along with the fact that we play them a lot this year, that rivalry can be revived.

[leaferfan87]

Someone's getting a little ahead of himself. :D

In order for Allison to have any value to us he needs to be healthy, and risking his health in a meaningless preseason game for the sake of nothing is not worth a year of nagging injuries. I say keep him out for however long it takes for him to be healthy enough to play. His health should be #1 priority over preseason games.

Err...my bad...typo!

[bluemeanie]

Take Antropov's cheque and give it to Wellwood.

[Madferret]

Is Allison the 'Brian Wilson' of the Leafs? lol

[charlio lemieux]

I'm starting to think he is a myth made up to scare young defensemen at night. :laughing:

[Man.Utd]

LOL!

How's the game going guys? I heard driving home on The TEAM that Colaiacovo would not suit up due to a slight ankle injury and is listed as day-to-day (took a shot off it in practise). This kid needs to buy some rabbit's feet and four leaf clovers!

[leaferfan87]

LOL!

How's the game going guys? I heard driving home on The TEAM that Colaiacovo would not suit up due to a slight ankle injury and is listed as day-to-day (took a shot off it in practise). This kid needs to buy some rabbit's feet and four leaf clovers!

It's 4-2 for Toronto and I haven't heard anything about Colaiacovo, but yes he needs some luck eventually.

[charlio lemieux]

Yes, Colaiacovo did take a shot off his foot in practice today. No word on how long he's gone for.

[bluemeanie]

Is Allison the 'Brian Wilson' of the Leafs? lol

Lay off the guy... he's working hard to recover in the Keith Tkatchuk fitness program.

[The Insider]

Wellwood is making a good case to make the team this year. With 2 Goals & 1 Assist already, I could very easily see him staying up with the club, provided he continues to get points and produce even on lines with not so talented forwards. Stumpy has impressed too, and right now I put Wellwood just a bit higher then Thomas on the depth chart, although we'll see because anything can happen in a week. Good to see the team winning even in preseason, gives me some confidence going into the season :thumb:

[charlio lemieux]

I would like to see Wellwood get a chance. A decent chance where his offence can shine, and not some grinding assignment on the fourth line. Please, no Stumpy.

[PDO]

Wellwood would get destroyed with anything more than 4th line minutes, Charlio. You put him out there , the other coach will see that and send out someone who'll burn him almost every time.

[charlio lemieux]

I dunno the Bochevski guy in Ottawa did OK with his guys. Maybe playing with Sundin and O'neill would be where he should go.

[Newfie John]

Wellwood would get destroyed with anything more than 4th line minutes, Charlio. You put him out there , the other coach will see that and send out someone who'll burn him almost every time.

What makes you so sure? With the new rules this year it will only help Wellwood. Wellwood has the puckhandling skills and vision to put the puck where he wants to, not just any grinder is going to stop this kid, I'll gauruntee you that.

Putting Wellwood on the wing though is a bad idea. I'd rather slide Lindros or Allison over to make room for Wellwood. Welly is having a good camp and his 2 on 1 goal was a beaut. He has a bag of tricks just as big as anyone's in the NHL.

[Madferret]

Antropov...wow
I just don't think it's in his cards to play for the Leafs.

[THE HACK]

I know a win is a win but to beat the Habs by only 1 goal when they had virtually none of their good players playing is something to be worried about,esp when the game is at home.Not impressed at all by this win!

Cheers

[The Insider]

I know a win is a win but to beat the Habs by only 1 goal when they had virtually none of their good players playing is something to be worried about,esp when the game is at home.Not impressed at all by this win!

Cheers

It's not really that bad come to think about it, we had Antropov and Ponikarovsky wasting Sundin which they did a lot last year with Nieuwendyk. And other than Stajan, Steen, Thomas & Wellwood, the other forwards were all grinders which when you think about getting 4 goals for is a good sign. The third Hab goal was also with what 6 seconds left after Antropov missed an empty net, so it wasn't as close as the score would suggest. Besides the Habs have some good up and coming players and they proved it hanging tough with the Leafs, the rivalry might come back a bit this year, hopefully :thumb:

[Newfie John]

It's not really that bad come to think about it, we had Antropov and Ponikarovsky wasting Sundin which they did a lot last year with Nieuwendyk. And other than Stajan, Steen, Thomas & Wellwood, the other forwards were all grinders which when you think about getting 4 goals for is a good sign. The third Hab goal was also with what 6 seconds left after Antropov missed an empty net, so it wasn't as close as the score would suggest. Besides the Habs have some good up and coming players and they proved it hanging tough with the Leafs, the rivalry might come back a bit this year, hopefully :thumb:

Antropov and Poni wasting Newy? I don't think so. They worked well together and was arguably our best line in the playoffs.

[The Insider]

Antropov and Poni wasting Newy? I don't think so. They worked well together and was arguably our best line in the playoffs.

I disagree, Antropov and Ponikarovsky spent a lot of time with Nieuwendyk last year and they would have one big game, then follow that with 4 or 5 bad games where they don't get any points and are a minus as a unit. I remember everyone talking about how great that line was and I don't think it was worth having the group put together for one big game out of 6. And the playoffs, Nieuwendyk carried that line for every game he was able to play, other than that the two twin pylons were fish outta water. I think if you look at playoff scoring:

Antropov - 13 games: 0 goals, 2 assist 2 points +1
Ponikarovski - 13 games: 1 goal, 3 assists, 4 points, -1
Nieuwendyk - 9 games: 6 goals, 0 assists, 0 points, even

Hardly any kind of argument could be made for either when it comes to playing with decent players. I say keep them away from the stars and let them produce on the 3rd or 4th line.

[Newfie John]

I disagree, Antropov and Ponikarovsky spent a lot of time with Nieuwendyk last year and they would have one big game, then follow that with 4 or 5 bad games where they don't get any points and are a minus as a unit. I remember everyone talking about how great that line was and I don't think it was worth having the group put together for one big game out of 6. And the playoffs, Nieuwendyk carried that line for every game he was able to play, other than that the two twin pylons were fish outta water. I think if you look at playoff scoring:

Antropov - 13 games: 0 goals, 2 assist 2 points +1
Ponikarovski - 13 games: 1 goal, 3 assists, 4 points, -1
Nieuwendyk - 9 games: 6 goals, 0 assists, 0 points, even

Hardly any kind of argument could be made for either when it comes to playing with decent players. I say keep them away from the stars and let them produce on the 3rd or 4th line.

Newy was the guy to score on the line. Poni and Antro just dominated down low though and around the boards. Their cycle was great and they scored a lot of goals off of it. I just plain old disagree with your assessment of the regular season play also.

[The Insider]

Newy was the guy to score on the line. Poni and Antro just dominated down low though and around the boards. Their cycle was great and they scored a lot of goals off of it. I just plain old disagree with your assessment of the regular season play also.

Well that's your opinion, but I think if we are going to base our season make or break on these two, we are in for a long winter. When you watch these two play, you see that there is talent, but they do not belong on scoring lines based on their play right now. I have no problem with them playing limited minutes on line 3 or 4, but to put them so high and expect them to excel at a level they are uncapable of exceling at is not something that we can afford to risk. Antropov will be nothing more then a 15-20 goal scorer and Ponikarovsky with a career year might make 18, but when you talk offense, they would be better role players to keep for say a second powerplay to stand in front of the net and provide a screen or a fourth line to make some noise by cycling the puck and eating up some minutes.

BTW did anyone else hear about Antropov getting the Dmitri Kristich recepetion at the ACC. Something tells me for him it is the last year to show any kind of signs of becoming a decent player in the NHL with this team.

[THE HACK]

It's not really that bad come to think about it, we had Antropov and Ponikarovsky wasting Sundin which they did a lot last year with Nieuwendyk. And other than Stajan, Steen, Thomas & Wellwood, the other forwards were all grinders which when you think about getting 4 goals for is a good sign. The third Hab goal was also with what 6 seconds left after Antropov missed an empty net, so it wasn't as close as the score would suggest. Besides the Habs have some good up and coming players and they proved it hanging tough with the Leafs, the rivalry might come back a bit this year, hopefully :thumb:

The rivalry should come back with a vengeance as this season its going to be a real dogfight just to make the playoffs and we do play the Habs 8 times.I'm more impressed with the Habs being in the game than the Leafs winning when you consider who the Habs had playing and it looked like an ECHL roster.If the Leafs can pull out a win in Montreal on Saturday then I'll be impressed.Jason Allison will make his debut this game! :thumb:

Cheers

[Madferret]

O'Neill & Lindros both have had their bells rung;
Kaberle nailed Jeff in the head with a slapshot early on and I haven't seen him since; while Eric collided with one of his own players and looked a little dazed on his way back to the bench.
1-1 at the end of a penalty filled 1st.

[Madferret]

O'Neill will not be returning, bruised neck is what they're saying. Wasn't it Aubin who tried to take Jeff's face off against Ottawa, and now Kaberle rings a point shot of his head. Wow.

[charlio lemieux]

Poor O'neill, takes a pay cut to come here, then his teammates kick the living crap out of him in the first couple of preseason games. :box: :hammer:

[Madferret]

Lindros has not taken many shifts since the collision, and he looks lost...bloated Elvis syndrome. Domi takes a diving penalty, Kaberle tips it into his own net on the ensuing PP...
Allison is playing a whale of a game though. You'd never know he hasn't played a real game in 2 1/2 years, betcha he gets 3rd star.

[Madferret]

Lindros called for diving...
Racine playing fantastic for the Leafs. Telly who? I've watched this Racine kid play solid all week.

[Madferret]

Is anyone watching this Racine kid? He's standing on his head. The Scabs would be up by about 5 if it weren't for this guy.
5 on 3 for the Scabs coming up...

[Madferret]

Wow. Garbage call on Coli, rubbed out Kovalev textbook style and gets an interference call for it. Bad, bad call.

[charlio lemieux]

Racine is sounding great.

[Madferret]

This Racine kid has to get 1st star. It's basically been MTL vs Racine.

[charlio lemieux]

lol. I heard Allison's name quite a bit too, he just missed his shootout shot.

[scorpionn]

It honestly looks like Lindros is just floating out there, he hasn't done a thing and doesn't seem to care... Hopefully he does something come Oct. 5.

Strong showing from Allison, good to see after so much time off.

Racine should be considered for the backup spot, but I doubt he gets it unless Tellqvist and Aubin really blow it.

[Madferret]

You Leaf fans still happy JFJ signed Lindros? What a complete f'ing waste of skate laces. Bloated Elvis on Ice.

http://www.elvisconcerts.com/cds/send.jpg

[Madferret]

Quinn bitching about the reffing to the media on SN....

:eek:

[KB in Kelowna]

Quinn bitching about the reffing to the media on SN....

:eek:

Wow that never happens :rolleyes: :D

[Madferret]

He should get fined. Zero tolerance obstruction etc.,then Zero tolerance Quinn bitching to the media and using it as an advantage.

[Newfie John]

Racine looked good. You seen Jekyl tonight, Hyde will come later.

[Madferret]

Racine looked good. You seen Jekyl tonight, Hyde will come later. lol
I dunno John he played pretty good the other game I saw him in, against the B's I think?

[Man.Utd]

Quinn bitching about the reffing to the media on SN....

:eek:

It's idiots like Quinn that pose a threat to the game ever being called properly. Hopefully he shuts up and good idea about the fine, Ferret. Tell the coaches/players that from here on in any public bitching about the refs off-ice will be punished accordingly.

Of course he liked the old rulse, his goon squad was already among the most penalized in the league. They don't need more infractions being called on them.

[charlio lemieux]

Listening to Quinn last night, I was wondering how far he could go before he started getting fined. He deserves 10 grand minimum. He went exactly where the league has asked coaches and management to stay away from, and that's being critical of the officiating. They did their job, it's not like there was a Kerry Fraser incident. So to Quinn: Shut up before the Ref's get discouraged and start to allow the trap again.

[leaferfan87]

I didn't see the incident, but Pat it's only the pre-season! There are new rules that have been implemented and the referees have to learn them as well. That means that there might be an abundance of calls in the pre-season.

[Madferret]

Any news on Lindros & O'Neill? They both didn't play tonight, it's obvious why Jeff didn't but Eric? Was he benched / scratched?

[The Insider]

Well, it's easy to sit back and say we played terrible, but in pre-season it's not about wins and losses, it's about individual performances and from tonight here's the positives:

1. Darcy Tucker got 3 assists, I think Tucker played a strong game, he missed a penalty shot and got into a scrap, but put forth a decent effort.

2. Sundin got a goal, it's nice to see him finally get scoring cause if we are going to do anything this season we need him to carry a lot of the offensive load and for 6.8 million a year he has to deliver.

3. Wellwood scored and played another good offensive game, he is playing very well and I could see him stepping in the lineup maybe bumping Kilger or Wilm down to the minors, or Steve Thomas into retirement.

4. Tellqvist had a rough game, but looking at the goals against:

#1 - Had no chance, Belak pinched, got burned and it became a 4 on 1 which almost got botched, but Spezza quickly recovered.
#2 - Probably should've saved this one, goal was a quick shot that went through his legs and was probably screened by the defenceman.
#3 - Tough bounce off of the hat-trick guy's skate, probably didn't expect it and a quick re-direct was just not quick enough to recover.
#4 - Backhand shot that he couldn't get over in enough time, really the defenceman's fault for being out of position and giving the kid a breakaway.
#5 - Tap in from top of the crease, other than poke checking the puck really had no chance as Spezza gave the kid a gift.
#6 - Another tough bounce which left Alfredsson with a gaping cage while he went to stop the puck behind the net. Was impressed that McCabe came straight over and you could tell he felt bad for the guy and offered him some re-assurance.
#7 - Empty net.

So out of the seven, I'd say two of them he probably had a fighting chance on. Hopefully he bounces back, otherwise it could be the minors for him.

5. Powerplay tallied 2 goals, which is a good sign considering Lindros, O'Neill, Khavanov and Allison were all out of the lineup.

6. Only gave up 5 PPs against which against Ottawa will give you a fighting chance because tonight they burned us on 2 of their chances.


Again, we played a terrible opening period, but held our own for the next 2. Ottawa may have had us tonight, but if we get lucky and Kaberle doesn't take out any more players ;) we will have a much better effort once we establish a full time roster and get our top players into the game. So I guess to Ottawa, enjoy the big win tonight, but don't get overconfident because come Oct 5th, it'll be a much different Maple Leaf team :thumb:

[bluemeanie]

Well, it's easy to sit back and say we played terrible, but in pre-season it's not about wins and losses, it's about individual performances and from tonight here's the positives:

1. Darcy Tucker got 3 assists, I think Tucker played a strong game, he missed a penalty shot and got into a scrap, but put forth a decent effort.

Tucker has to concentrate on playing an offensive game, along with his positioning... he can't be the player that we're used to and still expect good numbers.

2. Sundin got a goal, it's nice to see him finally get scoring cause if we are going to do anything this season we need him to carry a lot of the offensive load and for 6.8 million a year he has to deliver.

Sundin looked frustrated to me last night. That might have something to do with being lined up with the Twin towers of uselessness... I like the way Sundin is playing... I think if he has some consistently reliable linemates he'll be able to pop one in whenever he wants.

3. Wellwood scored and played another good offensive game, he is playing very well and I could see him stepping in the lineup maybe bumping Kilger or Wilm down to the minors, or Steve Thomas into retirement.

Bye Bye Stumpy.

4. Tellqvist had a rough game, but looking at the goals against:

#1 - Had no chance, Belak pinched, got burned and it became a 4 on 1 which almost got botched, but Spezza quickly recovered.
#2 - Probably should've saved this one, goal was a quick shot that went through his legs and was probably screened by the defenceman.
#3 - Tough bounce off of the hat-trick guy's skate, probably didn't expect it and a quick re-direct was just not quick enough to recover.
#4 - Backhand shot that he couldn't get over in enough time, really the defenceman's fault for being out of position and giving the kid a breakaway.
#5 - Tap in from top of the crease, other than poke checking the puck really had no chance as Spezza gave the kid a gift.
#6 - Another tough bounce which left Alfredsson with a gaping cage while he went to stop the puck behind the net. Was impressed that McCabe came straight over and you could tell he felt bad for the guy and offered him some re-assurance.
#7 - Empty net.

So out of the seven, I'd say two of them he probably had a fighting chance on. Hopefully he bounces back, otherwise it could be the minors for him.

Tellqvist has improved, but if I had to pick a back up right now... Racine in a second. Let's see him play a full game.
5. Powerplay tallied 2 goals, which is a good sign considering Lindros, O'Neill, Khavanov and Allison were all out of the lineup.

Netting two powerplay goals with a PP unit that's never going to play means nothing.

6. Only gave up 5 PPs against which against Ottawa will give you a fighting chance because tonight they burned us on 2 of their chances.

Only 5, hey? =]


Again, we played a terrible opening period, but held our own for the next 2. Ottawa may have had us tonight, but if we get lucky and Kaberle doesn't take out any more players ;) we will have a much better effort once we establish a full time roster and get our top players into the game. So I guess to Ottawa, enjoy the big win tonight, but don't get overconfident because come Oct 5th, it'll be a much different Maple Leaf team :thumb:

The reality is they destroyed us, but it didn't really concern me much either. As you said, we will have full time roster soon and until then we're just guessing. It's preseason, it's an adjustment period for those who need it... the Sens don't need... the Leafs do.

[charlio lemieux]

Twin towers of uselessness

:laughing: I like! :thumb:

[The Insider]

Tucker has to concentrate on playing an offensive game, along with his positioning... he can't be the player that we're used to and still expect good numbers.

I agree that Tucker will have to make an adjustment to his game, as the Tucker we're used to was a high energy pest, which worked in the old NHL, but in the new NHL Tucker is going to have to devote more time creating and setting up scoring chances rather then looking for the big hit in the offensive zone. I do notice that a lot of the scrumming along the boards has gone away so maybe it's time for Tucker to try to take his act in front of the net rather then behind it and beside it. He really did set up the second goal going hard to the net and maybe if Hasek didn't flop around he would've had a chance at stopping Domi's rebound, but again it showed Tucker trying to make something happen in front of the net which is what he's going to have to so.

Sundin looked frustrated to me last night. That might have something to do with being lined up with the Twin towers of uselessness... I like the way Sundin is playing... I think if he has some consistently reliable linemates he'll be able to pop one in whenever he wants.

I completely agree that Sundin looks like he does not want to be paired with these two. I said it before I'll say it again, these two(Antro and Poni) do not belong on line one with players of Sundin's caliber, it would be a waste because Sundin is a rush player and these two excel along the boards, so putting the two together makes no sense, I think moving either him or Allison to the wing and pairing them up would do wonders as Allison proved on Saturday he can really create chances up the middle and down the wing which, but him with Sundin and maybe the Tucker I mentioned above or O'Neill and it would be a tough group to stop going towards the net. I also think if we do move Sundin to the wing, we could use the stretch pass to him to spring a breakaway or a one on one which Sundin more then likely will turn into a scoring chance which will potentially keep the defence from taking chances by pinching or joining the rush, knowing that a simple mistake give Sundin a breakaway.

Bye Bye Stumpy.

Sounds harsh, but Wellwood has earned a spot so far and unfortunately for Thomas probably leaves him the odd man out :wave:

Tellqvist has improved, but if I had to pick a back up right now... Racine in a second. Let's see him play a full game.

Racine has looked tremendous, which is a huge boost for him in the goalie situation, it's tough to pick a clear cut favorite right now, but for the sake of argument, Racine has gone all out this preseason to keep the Leafs in the game, Tellqvist has been a little shaky at times, but he has some NHL experience and just happened to get shelled by a full strength Senator team. Again it's still a toss up, but eventually one of the two I believe will make up the minds of the coaching staff.

Netting two powerplay goals with a PP unit that's never going to play means nothing.

Maybe not, but it gives these players a taste of it, which down the road when the star players need a break, it gives these guys the opportunity to jump in and know what to do(a confidence booster) besides I would prefer to have 3 scoring lines on the PP rather than 2, especially with the abundance of PP chances.

Only 5, hey? =]

After the Montreal game with the same officials it is comforting to see some players learned from their mistakes. And besides the less time on the penalty kill, the less time we play in the defensive zone which is our weakness.

The reality is they destroyed us, but it didn't really concern me much either. As you said, we will have full time roster soon and until then we're just guessing. It's preseason, it's an adjustment period for those who need it... the Sens don't need... the Leafs do.

It's going to be a tough year against the Sens, they clearly have reloaded and are going to make a serious run at the cup. I still shake my head at how great they have developed a team through drafting and trades, robbing Mike Millbury of both Spezza and Chara for Yashin really gave this team a face for the future and for the present which unfortunately for Leaf fans is a tough pill to swallow since our method of tooling through free agency really is going to be a lot harder with the new system. So the only way to really improve is to draft and trade well which hopefully Ferguson knows what he's doing cause otherwise we'll be going round the merry go round of failure again and again. Hopefully our roster can be finalized soon and we can get guys playing with each other and getting used to one another, since the more we delay, the less time we give ourselves to prepare for Oct 5th.

[Newfie John]

Guys, trust me, you don't want Racine as the back-up unless he has improved miraculously over the offseason. He puts little stretches on like this and then bammo, bye bye Racine, back to the ECHL you go and ask yourself, what the hell happened to that good goalie? You'll be cursing on him worse then Trevor Kidd. Right now I'd give the back-up slot to Aubin.

[charlio lemieux]

Racine would only be playing once every two weeks. He has had the best camp by far, and deserves a chance to back-up Eddie.

[bluemeanie]

Buffalo... we always seem to have trouble against them, and they're playing well together so far. We should be able to beat them however - so no excuses. Haven't heard any gameday announcments, but I'm guessing that Lindros sits, and hopefully Racine can get a full game in - Quinn has a big descision to make there. I missed most of the Saturday Montreal tilt, so hopefully I can get a look at Allisons play tonight. The Wellwood / Thomas debate will continue tonight, and if we continue looking sloppy in our own end, I see Quinn making a two-way Thomas his choice.

Leafs 4, Buffalo 2

[The Insider]

Should be a good one :thumb:

I heard that in practice Q was skating Tucker, Allison and O'Neill on the same line, that to me would be an awesome line to put together, of course he also had Sundin with Ponikarovsky but this time with Czerkawski on the other wing and not Antropov. Basically in practice here were the lines according to the Star:

Poni-Mats-Polish Prince
Tucker-Allison-O'Neill
Antropov-Stajan-Steen
Domi-Wellwood-Kilger
Thomas-Wilm-Perrot

Lindros of course is still hurting, so he's out and I guess one of these lines sits for tonight, my guess is line 5 on the chart.

[Madferret]

What is Lindros hurting from guys? I have'nt heard a peep about Eric being anything other than playing poorly. Is he actully hurt?

[The Insider]

What is Lindros hurting from guys? I have'nt heard a peep about Eric being anything other than playing poorly. Is he actully hurt?

Eric's got a strained upper back injury. He didn't skate yesterday and it could be the reason he has looked so listless this preseason. He says he is optimistic to get at least one more preseason game in before the start of the season, but he said he'll take it slow and make sure he's healthy.

[Newfie John]

We're going nowhere this year with injuries like this. This team could be damn good, but it could be damn bad too.

[THE HACK]

Should be a good one :thumb:

I heard that in practice Q was skating Tucker, Allison and O'Neill on the same line, that to me would be an awesome line to put together, of course he also had Sundin with Ponikarovsky but this time with Czerkawski on the other wing and not Antropov. Basically in practice here were the lines according to the Star:

Poni-Mats-Polish Prince
Tucker-Allison-O'Neill
Antropov-Stajan-Steen
Domi-Wellwood-Kilger
Thomas-Wilm-Perrot

Lindros of course is still hurting, so he's out and I guess one of these lines sits for tonight, my guess is line 5 on the chart.

I like the line of Tucker-Allison-O Neill and this should be their 2nd line to start the season.Czerkawski with Sundin is also one that should start the season but as for the winger it should be either Thomas or Steen.The 4th line should still be Domi-Stajan-Kilger.The 3rd line is a tricky one as Lindros will center and Antropov and Poni will probably end up as the wingers but what a waste of space,esp with Wellwood playing well.Antropov,Poni and Belak make a combined $2.5 mil,what was JFJ thinking!!!

Cheers

[Newfie John]

I like the line of Tucker-Allison-O Neill and this should be their 2nd line to start the season.Czerkawski with Sundin is also one that should start the season but as for the winger it should be either Thomas or Steen.The 4th line should still be Domi-Stajan-Kilger.The 3rd line is a tricky one as Lindros will center and Antropov and Poni will probably end up as the wingers but what a waste of space,esp with Wellwood playing well.Antropov,Poni and Belak make a combined $2.5 mil,what was JFJ thinking!!!

Cheers

Belak I understand. I don't believe in giving up on Antropov yet though. Poni? What's wrong with Poni? Am I the only leaf fan that values this guy? He's a stud in the corners. The best on our team right now.

[The Insider]

Belak I understand. I don't believe in giving up on Antropov yet though. Poni? What's wrong with Poni? Am I the only leaf fan that values this guy? He's a stud in the corners. The best on our team right now.

Antropov has been talked about for so many years now, you remember him coming up with all this great potential as a 19 or 20 year old. But the guy is 26 now and still showing the same problems he has always had those being injuries and his inability to reach his potential. Poni on the other hand, maybe is being brought down due to the fact he is paired with Antropov, but he still has yet to show any signs of greatness and it's going to be his 4th NHL season. I think for Antropov it's definately make or break this year, people are getting tired of the guy and if he doesn't produce you will hear a lot of booing at the ACC whenever he touches the puck. Poni might have more time, but in today's new system, if they don't produce they'll both be gone within a year or two.

[Newfie John]

Antropov has been talked about for so many years now, you remember him coming up with all this great potential as a 19 or 20 year old. But the guy is 26 now and still showing the same problems he has always had those being injuries and his inability to reach his potential. Poni on the other hand, maybe is being brought down due to the fact he is paired with Antropov, but he still has yet to show any signs of greatness and it's going to be his 4th NHL season. I think for Antropov it's definately make or break this year, people are getting tired of the guy and if he doesn't produce you will hear a lot of booing at the ACC whenever he touches the puck. Poni might have more time, but in today's new system, if they don't produce they'll both be gone within a year or two.

Last year was Poni's first real season. I liked him. He has a hard shot, though not accurate, but that may have improved. He is our best player on the boards and good luck getting him away from the front of the net when he goes there. I think a lot of fans will look at him differently at the end of this year.

Antropov, I think his max potential at this point is 50 points, maybe 60 but that's being extremly generous. I agree with you that this year is a make or break year for him.

[macca]

Last year was Poni's first real season. I liked him. He has a hard shot, though not accurate, but that may have improved. He is our best player on the boards and good luck getting him away from the front of the net when he goes there. I think a lot of fans will look at him differently at the end of this year.

Antropov, I think his max potential at this point is 50 points, maybe 60 but that's being extremly generous. I agree with you that this year is a make or break year for him.

Antropov reminds me of Bonk.....both players are just plain LAZY and are not willing to pay the price it takes to reach their full potential. It sure sounds like Antropov is floating through another Leaf training camp, and that's not a good sign. What is completely baffling is why Quinn continues to show faith in this guy, but then again I was saying the same thing for years with the Martin/Bonk love affair.

[charlio lemieux]

Antropov has been talked about for so many years now, you remember him coming up with all this great potential as a 19 or 20 year old. But the guy is 26 now and still showing the same problems he has always had those being injuries and his inability to reach his potential.

I know I myself have been hard on Antropov, I may have even called for his head, but over the last few days something has been nagging at me. (not my girlfriend) ;) Some of these big power forward type guys take quite a few years to develop. Thornton, Bertuzzi, Guerin and Iginla all had early seasons that were beneath their potential. Thorton had what 8 points his rookie year, and 17 the next. I am not suggesting Antropov is or will be of similar calibre as these guys but at 6-6 And around 220-230 lbs he none the less stands out. When he more fully developed around 28 or 29 and at about 240 lbs he should have his best year. What to do with him in the mean time is the question. I guess keep him on the third line, and hope one day he will be the next Knuble. :thumb:

As for Poni I like him better than Antropov right now. Steen is better than both. Wellwood is playing better than Steen, and Stajan is our best all around young forward by far. I would like to either see the three youngsters together, or one with Sundin and O'neill, and the other two with Allison. Why not make a new Legion of Doom line with "the Twin Towers of Uselessness" and "the man with no brain"? (Eddie would be doomed everytime they stepped on the ice) :D That would leave Tucker,Czer'kawasaki and Wilm.

[Madferret]

1-0 Sabres on a PP...
This one's a snoozer... :snore:

[leaferfan87]

Antropov reminds me of Bonk.....both players are just plain LAZY and are not willing to pay the price it takes to reach their full potential. It sure sounds like Antropov is floating through another Leaf training camp, and that's not a good sign. What is completely baffling is why Quinn continues to show faith in this guy, but then again I was saying the same thing for years with the Martin/Bonk love affair.

But at least Bonk had some descent seasons point wise. We can't get anything like that out of Nik.

[Madferret]

2-1 Sabres on another PP....Belak with a dumb penalty.

[The Insider]

2-1 Sabres on another PP....Belak with a dumb penalty.

Belak... Dumb Penalty... I never thought I'd hear those two words in the same sentance :conspire:

Seriously though, after a great game against Ottawa when it came to penalties taken, Toronto apparently forgot about the new rules :wave:

[Madferret]

3-1...Belfour's starting to lose it.

[charlio lemieux]

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

3-1...Belfour's starting to lose it.

Belfour's in net? I thought it was Telly! ;) :D

[Madferret]

5-2 Sabres final...

[charlio lemieux]

How sad.

[The Insider]

Well, another loss, in fact the 3rd straight. The telling part of the game was the PPs, 10 chances for the Sabres including three 5 on 3s and only 3 chances for the Leafs. Hard to win games on the penalty kill and tonights was just another example of how speed just obliterates our team. Mind you, no Allison, O'Neill, Tucker, Lindros, McCabe, Kaberle and Klee, but even without them, we still got beaten badly to the point where it is starting to become a concern. We started to come alive in the 3rd, but these 1st and 2nd period meltdowns are not going to do us any favors if we want to compete. But like the optimist that I am, here are some positives to take from tonight:

#1 - Clarke Wilm played a very strong game, here is a player who is on the bubble and over the past few years we've always had a thankless individual who does all the work no one ever notices like penalty killing and blocking shots, for example Garry Valk, Tom Fitzgerald, Kevyn Adams, I think that between him and Kilger will cover that role this year.

#2 - Wade Belak for who he is showed what someone in his role is supposed to do and that is if someone takes a run at your star or captain, you immediately jump in there and straighten them out. Sundin was hit and Belak stepped up and showed that, that is not acceptable. Good for team spirit and unity.

#3 - Czerkawski got a nice goal and if he can pot say 15-20 goals, it'll be great towards adding more of an offensive punch to our team. Especially if we have to be concerned with Allison and Lindros on the IR, Czerkawski could fill in the scoring punch if heaven forbid, either got injured for a long period of time.

[bluemeanie]

Well, another loss, in fact the 3rd straight. The telling part of the game was the PPs, 10 chances for the Sabres including three 5 on 3s and only 3 chances for the Leafs. Hard to win games on the penalty kill and tonights was just another example of how speed just obliterates our team. Mind you, no Allison, O'Neill, Tucker, Lindros, McCabe, Kaberle and Klee, but even without them, we still got beaten badly to the point where it is starting to become a concern. We started to come alive in the 3rd, but these 1st and 2nd period meltdowns are not going to do us any favors if we want to compete. But like the optimist that I am, here are some positives to take from tonight:

Concern indeed. The one thing that I've always valued about Quinn's technique, is that he's been able to plug in holes from injuries with the right guys quite effectively. Still, too early to tell, but hopefully he can find those resources this year when he needs them. Because without our core guys... things drop off waaaaay to steeply.... Is that a word?

#1 - Clarke Wilm played a very strong game, here is a player who is on the bubble and over the past few years we've always had a thankless individual who does all the work no one ever notices like penalty killing and blocking shots, for example Garry Valk, Tom Fitzgerald, Kevyn Adams, I think that between him and Kilger will cover that role this year.

Overall, I've been inpressed with the majority of the young tryouts this camp, Wilm is one of them. It's the guys that we're expecting to produce that aren't. Kilger had a good night last night and I've been impressed with his actual play behind the puck. He's not a 'play maker' but he does a great job moving the puck up the ice into the O.Z. - right up through the middle... ? la Lindros. If he can continue to do that, he can create the room for some nice opportunitites. And I was actually saying this to my girlfriend (who was totally ignoring me by the way) even before he got that goal. True story.

#2 - Wade Belak for who he is showed what someone in his role is supposed to do and that is if someone takes a run at your star or captain, you immediately jump in there and straighten them out. Sundin was hit and Belak stepped up and showed that, that is not acceptable. Good for team spirit and unity.

Who... you mean ol' Head-in-the-sleeve Belak? Ya... he's nuts.

#3 - Czerkawski got a nice goal and if he can pot say 15-20 goals, it'll be great towards adding more of an offensive punch to our team. Especially if we have to be concerned with Allison and Lindros on the IR, Czerkawski could fill in the scoring punch if heaven forbid, either got injured for a long period of time.

Czerkawski has made three nice plays so far that I've noticed... that's hopeful, but more concerning. Personally, I think we need this guy to pot 20 goals minimum. And from the rumours that I hear that this guy fades as the season goes on... I don't think he's quite bright enough to start it off... yet.

[Madferret]

#3 - Czerkawski got a nice goal..

Mike, I'm not taking away from any of your points and I agree that yes Marius could score 15-20 goals, but I watched that game last night and his goal was a fluke off a fanned Berg shot.
But, that said, goals are like babies...the ones you or your team scores are always beauties.

[Max Power]

Overall, I've been inpressed with the majority of the young tryouts this camp, Wilm is one of them. It's the guys that we're expecting to produce that aren't. Kilger had a good night last night and I've been impressed with his actual play behind the puck. He's not a 'play maker' but he does a great job moving the puck up the ice into the O.Z. - right up through the middle... ? la Lindros. If he can continue to do that, he can create the room for some nice opportunitites. And I was actually saying this to my girlfriend (who was totally ignoring me by the way) even before he got that goal. True story.


Did she walk away when you got up and thrusted in her direction yelling "yah babe" when he scored the goal?
The few games that I?ve seen with a limited roster has led me to believe TO does have potential. The biggest problem I see is Quinn having no idea how to groom the younger players and coach them to be a factor. The other obvious limitation is speed which apparently is going to be a big factor, but this again could be somewhat remedied if Quinn had the ability to groom the younger and faster players into two-way players. I know how much the blue faithful love Quinn but IMO and considering what the cap has forced TO into Quinn should be the first casualty in leaf land

[bluemeanie]

Did she walk away when you got up and thrusted in her direction yelling "yah babe" when he scored the goal?
The few games that I?ve seen with a limited roster has led me to believe TO does have potential. The biggest problem I see is Quinn having no idea how to groom the younger players and coach them to be a factor. The other obvious limitation is speed which apparently is going to be a big factor, but this again could be somewhat remedied if Quinn had the ability to groom the younger and faster players into two-way players. I know how much the blue faithful love Quinn but IMO and considering what the cap has forced TO into Quinn should be the first casualty in leaf land

I'm not all together opposed to that. But as long as Quinn keeps taking the Leafs into the PO's and winning Olympic hardware, it's going to be a tough sell to the suits upstairs. I think that Quinn relies on his veteran guys to groom the kids, but this year he's going to have to take the reigns for a change. We'll see. BTW, I'll take 'potential'. Thanks.

[The Insider]

Mike, I'm not taking away from any of your points and I agree that yes Marius could score 15-20 goals, but I watched that game last night and his goal was a fluke off a fanned Berg shot.
But, that said, goals are like babies...the ones you or your team scores are always beauties.

C'Mon Dev, just because our players don't have the same offensive abilities as the Senator players doesn't mean that our goals aren't special :wicked:

I mean didn't you see Domi in the shootout...his goal made the all 3 of Bochenski's goals the other night look inferior :thumb:

[bluemeanie]

C'Mon Dev, just because our players don't have the same offensive abilities as the Senator players doesn't mean that our goals aren't special :wicked:

I mean didn't you see Domi in the shootout...his goal made the all 3 of Bochenski's goals the other night look inferior :thumb:

What happened in the S.O anyhow?... I tuned off by then.

[The Insider]

What happened in the S.O anyhow?... I tuned off by then.

Domi won the game on like the 7th or 8th shot. Goalies were pretty sharp in the sudden death round.

[Madferret]

The shootout was hilarious. Ruff sent out his three goons as his shooters as a little tongue in cheek jab at Quinn, then the likes of Grier, Lydman...you get the idea. I think Miller was laughing when Domi skated up, but bless Tie's power play abilities, he squeaked one between his legs.
The funny thing is that I think by the time the shootout was done, the fans forgot how bad the Leafs played and how badly they had been beaten.

[The Rover]

I'm not worried in the least. It's pre-season for cryin' out loud. There have been umpteen line combos and 3rd and 4th string goaltending, now on a game to game basis during the season are we going to see Leafs teams made up of players of lesser calibre? I doubt it. The first benchmark of a season imo is the 20 game mark, that way if things aren't working out as planned it is still early enough to try new combos and pairings. Honestly, I'm not worried.

[bluemeanie]

I'm not worried in the least. It's pre-season for cryin' out loud. There have been umpteen line combos and 3rd and 4th string goaltending, now on a game to game basis during the season are we going to see Leafs teams made up of players of lesser calibre? I doubt it. The first benchmark of a season imo is the 20 game mark, that way if things aren't working out as planned it is still early enough to try new combos and pairings. Honestly, I'm not worried.

lol. Good for you Rov. I'm with you fully. I mean if the Pre Season meant anything, then Carolina would be winning the cup this year. No need to panic. But, I have to admit... that little paragraph of your's sounds kind of like you've been practising it with your therapist. =]

[Madferret]

I'm not worried in the least. It's pre-season for cryin' out loud. There have been umpteen line combos and 3rd and 4th string goaltending, now on a game to game basis during the season are we going to see Leafs teams made up of players of lesser calibre? I doubt it. The first benchmark of a season imo is the 20 game mark, that way if things aren't working out as planned it is still early enough to try new combos and pairings. Honestly, I'm not worried.

That friggen Avatar Rovs...lol
What did SI do now?

[The Rover]

I swear, I believe it to be true...or perhaps you are right and I have simply convinced myself...believe....believe...believe.

[The Rover]

Sports Illustrated seems to think the Leafs and Habs will be watching the playoffs, and the Coyotes are guaranteed to finish last. Good one, tell Gretzky it can't be done...where have I heard that one before?

Back to topic, next game Detroit back to backs? I say we take both.

[Madferret]

Sports Illustrated seems to think the Leafs and Habs will be watching the playoffs, and the Coyotes are guaranteed to finish last. Good one, tell Gretzky it can't be done...where have I heard that one before?

Back to topic, next game Detroit back to backs? I say we take both.

Only games against Detroit this year for you guys until the SC finals eh?

SI expects who to win the Cup, Flyers?

[Max Power]

Only games against Detroit this year for you guys until the SC finals eh?

SI expects who to win the Cup, Flyers?

Yah well they picked Calgary to win the cup :rolleyes:
and Philly second

[bluemeanie]

C'mon guys if SI doesn't know their hockey, then who does?

[leaferfan87]

C'mon guys if SI doesn't know their hockey, then who does?

The Outdoor Life Network?

[Madferret]

Leafs @ Wings anyone?

[Madferret]

Good kill by the Leafs.
I gotta ask, Lindros and Allison did sign with the Leafs right?

[bluemeanie]

Good kill by the Leafs.
I gotta ask, Lindros and Allison did sign with the Leafs right?

At a little over a mill each, they're giving us our money's worth so far.

[Madferret]

At a little over a mill each, they're giving us our money's worth so far.


Hey is it still 3-1 Leafs? Special teams are special tonight?

[Newfie John]

Hey is it still 3-1 Leafs? Special teams are special tonight?

3-2. Both goals for Detroit have come on 5 on 3's. Stajan and Steen are looking great together.

Sundin(Kaberle, Mccabe), O'neil(Tucker, Berg) and Stajan(Steen) have the goals for the leafs. Wellwood is looking good to with numerous chances. I think Steen is a lock to make the team, steen and stajan are smooth as silk out there. It's about time the leafs started to look like a team.

[Newfie John]

4-2 Leafs. Coli with the goal, Sundin and Kronvall with the assists.

With all the youngsters making noise, Sundin has quietly had a very good camp.

[The Insider]

Well, an all and all better effort tonight. We did take a lot of needless penalties and it cost us on 2 occasions, but our PP was on tonight and in the end it was Coliacovo's goal that decided the game, even though a major gaffe by him later made it a 1 goal affair.

I thought the Steen, Stajan & Thomas line was outstanding tonight, while the Tucker, Wellwood and O'Neill line clicked early, but with the parade to the box in the second and third, really was held in check after that. O'Neill's goal(regulation & shootout) were both great shots that could not have been placed any better. Stajan got a beauty SH which really to me was the turning point, and Sundin also got us on the board with a 5 on 3 goal which should've been scored.

I think 5 on 5 we are a decent team, it's when we start taking penalty after penalty that we really give the game to the other team, I don't know if mighty Q wants a lot of practice on the PK or what, but it needs to be addressed ASAP.

Speaking of Q, he really took one of the noggin in the third... who knows, that might knock some sense into him again and he can fix the penalty problem :thumb:

Should be a good one tommorow, be interesting to see who's playing for us cause Allison and Lindros really should try to get another practice game in.

[Newfie John]

Major cuts are to be made today I hear.

[The Insider]

Based on what I've seen in the pre-season, it's going to be a tough decision, and in trying to come up with roster spots, it's too bad we wasted a spot for Domi who really is taking up a spot that we could've used for a rookie. But if I had to pick a team right now, a 20 man roster, so 2 healthy scratches it would be:

Forwards:

1. Mats Sundin
2. Jeff O'Neill
3. Jason Allison
4. Darcy Tucker
5. Eric Lindros
6. Alex Ponikarovsky
7. Nik Antropov
8. Tie Domi
9. Mariuz Czerkawski
10. Matt Stajan
11. Kyle Wellwood
12. Chad Kilger

Defence:

1. Bryan McCabe
2. Tomas Kaberle
3. Ken Klee
4. Aki Berg
5. Alex Khavanov
6. Carlo Colaiacovo

Reserves:

1. Clarke Wilm
2. Wade Belak

Keep in mind that I had to use guys like Berg, Domi and Belak because we all know that no matter how good our young players are these 3 guys are going to be there regardless. Basically I cut Steen, Thomas, Wosniewski and Marchment, which is logical since both Thomas and Marchment can go into retirement or can wait to see if the young players don't work out and maybe get another shot at the team. Steen and Wosniewski were tough cuts, but neither has to clear waivers to go back and forth which makes them expendable if we needed an emergency call up or had to send them back down. Tough call really since most of the younger guys have had pretty good camps, but if you ask me, out with the old in with the new :thumb:

[Leafs_Fa_Life]

Lineup for tonight's game:

Forwards
Poni ? Sundin ? Antropov
Tucker ? Allison ? Czerkawski
Kilger ? Lindros ? Domi
Steen ? Stajan ? O?Neill

Defence:
Kaberle ? McCabe
Berg ? Belak
Khavanov ? Wozniewski

Goaltender:
Mikael Tellqvist

[leaferfan87]

Lineup for tonight's game:

Forwards
Poni ? Sundin ? Antropov
Tucker ? Allison ? Czerkawski
Kilger ? Lindros ? Domi
Steen ? Stajan ? O?Neill

Defence:
Kaberle ? McCabe
Berg ? Belak
Khavanov ? Wozniewski

Goaltender:
Mikael Tellqvist

Should be interesting to see what happens with this group on the ice. Aside from Tellqvist in net this should be quite similar to our lineup for the season.

[Leafs_Fa_Life]

Leafs win 4-1!!!!

Telly makes 29 saves in the win, and the goal scorers were O'Neill, Czer, Woz, and Nik.

[The Insider]

Leafs are looking pretty good at full strength :thumb:

I really like the way Allison controls things in the offensive zone, he almost always makes something happen and it is a good sign to see the Leafs getting production from almost every line. I am still wondering what Domi's purpose is on this team since he was just taking up space tonight, since doesn't kill any penalties and his enforcer days are long over, especially with Wade Belak patrolling now. I guess he still is feared by some defenceman expecting to get hit going for the puck, but if it came down to Domi vs Steen or Domi vs Wellwood, you know where my vote would go.

It feels pretty good to sweep the Wings this year, even if it is only preseason, although they really look like a shell of there former selves. Next it's the Sens in Game 1 of 82 and now we can finally see how we match up to them full strength, should be good.

[scorpionn]

I thought Lindros played very well tonight, actually showed some effort and used his body.

Good to see Telly only allow 1, he played a solid game and has probably earned himself the backup job since Aubin is still injured and will presumably be sent down to the Marlies..

Now i wonder when the final cuts will be coming, and what happens with Stumpy.. I wonder if he wouldn't mind playing some games in the AHL and coming up as an injury callup.

[Newfie John]

According to TSN, Stumpy did not make the club, Steen has. Steen will play on a line with Stajan and O'neil. Sundin will play with the twin towers. Lindros will play with Domi and Kilger. Allison will play with Tucker and Czerkawski.

Telly played well tonight.

[The Insider]

According to TSN, Stumpy did not make the club, Steen has. Steen will play on a line with Stajan and O'neil. Sundin will play with the twin towers. Lindros will play with Domi and Kilger. Allison will play with Tucker and Czerkawski.

Telly played well tonight.

It is a tough decision to make, and unfortunately for Thomas it is the right one. Moving forward we need to get our youngsters more involved into coming up with the team and it looks like Steen's two way game was the one the earned the spot over Thomas and Wellwood. I heard Detroit has interest in Thomas so he may end up there which would be good for him to finish his career. I am confused with some of the formations mainly with Lindros on Line #4, but maybe it's a trial basis, and you never know, I guess Quinn is going to go with what's been working.

[Amoroq]

I am very impressed with Steen, especially his play on the PK. As for the line combinations that have been discussed, this plays into how Quinn likes to roll 4 line and most of the winngers and centers are inter-changeable depending on the situation. I am hopefull :)

[leaferfan87]

Why does Mats have to play with Nik and Poni? If he's not going to be able to get points out of these guys, nobody will.

[Newfie John]

Why does Mats have to play with Nik and Poni? If he's not going to be able to get points out of these guys, nobody will.

I really think that line is going to produce. It's a make or break year for Antropov. One thing is for sure, that line is huge. Good lucking stopping these guys on the forecheck/cycle.

[charlio lemieux]

What the hell is Quinn thinking? "The Twin Towers of Uselessness" are an extreme waste of Sundin's tallent. If the net hadn't been wide open Antropov would have missed again, last night. Atleast give Mats someone who can shoot, like Wellwood. Antropov and Poni would be better off playing with Lindros.

Over the ten plus years Sundin has been with this team, the best wingers that have been provided to him were Roberts and Mogilny. Both well past their prime. He has been a consistant scorer, and would have benefitted from a speedy winger with a good shot, who was able to stay in the line-up for an entire season. But in the immortal wisdom of "The Quinn", young tallent is often traded for "veteren leadership". Thank you Salary Cap for forcing this team to play it's young tallent, and not just signing some over-the-hill former 40 goal scorer.

[Leafs_Fa_Life]

I think eventually Lindros will move up to wing on the first line. Steen-Stajan-O'Neill will not be the fourth line for most of the season, and it would make a lot more sense to have Poni-Kilger-Domi playing 5 or 6 minutes a game.

[Newfie John]

What the hell is Quinn thinking? "The Twin Towers of Uselessness" are an extreme waste of Sundin's tallent. If the net hadn't been wide open Antropov would have missed again, last night. Atleast give Mats someone who can shoot, like Wellwood. Antropov and Poni would be better off playing with Lindros.

Over the ten plus years Sundin has been with this team, the best wingers that have been provided to him were Roberts and Mogilny. Both well past their prime. He has been a consistant scorer, and would have benefitted from a speedy winger with a good shot, who was able to stay in the line-up for an entire season. But in the immortal wisdom of "The Quinn", young tallent is often traded for "veteren leadership". Thank you Salary Cap for forcing this team to play it's young tallent, and not just signing some over-the-hill former 40 goal scorer.

Mogilny outscored Sundin one year.

[leaferfan87]

It has really occured to me that JFJ and Quinn are really trying their hardest to get something out of Antropov. This is his last chance to do something meaningful and I think that Quinn and JFJ are giving him every chance to become a significant piece in the puzzle.

[The Rover]

Or maybe they are showcasing Antropov in the hope that Sundin makes him look good enough to fool some GM?......

[Newfie John]

Or maybe they are showcasing Antropov in the hope that Sundin makes him look good enough to fool some GM?......

That never occurred to me, and it's a plausible theory, but I have my doubts.