Everything is hunky-dory in Maple Leaf Land. The Leafs have the most points team in NHL. Could this be the year the Leafs get the MVP? Can this be the year the Leafs bring Lord Stanley to the centre of the universe?
Austin Matthews is on an incredible pace to score 50 goals this season. He is one of the best forwards in the League. What makes him so dangerous is his quick, deadly release. Austin leads the NHL with 16 goals, most of them on the spectacular side. Some of that might have something to do with winger Mitch Marner. Matthews has a real nose for the puck. He oozes confidence every time he is on the ice, which inspires his teammates. Can he get his 50 goals in 56 games? Matthews will hit a slump; everyone does sooner or later. When he goes through his slump, his mindset will determine his fate. I predict Austin gets 40-50 this season.
The other story is the influence of Gentle Joe on his line. Everyone has talked about Marner but, the story could be how good Joe Thornton has been. He has been a colossal surprise so far this season. Players like him. The coaches love him because of his experience; it is almost like having another coach on the bench. He will help Matthews become an even better player.
Is it early to get excited about this team? I don't think so. What makes this team so good is that they believe in each other. The Leafs have never had vets like Simmonds and Thornton to lead this team. It has been a long time that the Leafs have had the motivation to win. In years past, they could not execute that final step to do what it takes to win. Thornton's and Simmonds' drive has spread through the team, making it a fun time to be a Maple leaf fan. So sit back and enjoy the ride.
Randy
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