Leafs: Strong Start but Defensive Woes Persist

So far this season, the Maple Leafs could be sitting at 6-0 if not for a couple of goalies, Sam Montembeault and Igor Shesterkin, who both stoned the Leafs. Especially Montembeault with his 48-save shutout. The Maple Leafs had plenty of chances to pull out wins in both games, but just couldn’t get past those two.

But there are some warning signs here. The Leafs are still are giving up way too many chances. They really need to focus on their zone coverage, skate harder, and cut out those lazy penalties. The defensive play has to improve. If it doesn’t, goaltender Anthony Stolarz will have to sue the team for lack of support.

On a brighter note, there are a couple of players who I have to point out that have been stellar so far this season.

Chris Tanev

Chris has got to be one of the bravest players in the league, if not the bravest. Giving his body up to block shots left and right. I’ll bet Reilly is super grateful for Chris every shift he is on the ice.

Anthony Stolarz 

Did you see that save Monday night? Toronto Maple Leafs fans are totally convinced Anthony channeled his inner Gumby to keep that puck off the goal line. If you don’t believe me, take a look at it. 

It wasn’t just that save. He has been Mr. Steady all season and has been there to answer the calls; has stepped up big time with Joseph Woll injured. 

So far, things are looking good, but the defensive play has to improve. And those lazy minors late in the game? Not a fan of those at all. I’d give it a solid B+ so far!

Topsy-Turvy Islanders: Take the Shot!

 

If there was a term that fits the Islanders, what would it be? To me, what comes to mind is topsy-turvy. For the Islanders to be successful, they have to be consistent. If they outwork the opposition, they will win. But when they play like they’re just going through the motions, they’re in trouble. 

What I mean is the Eastern Conference is that loaded with some serious talent. If the Isles don’t outwork the offensive powerhouses, they will get run out of town. I promise it will spell doom if guys like Matthews, Tkachuk, and Panarin get too much space to operate. 

The Islanders are gearing up for battle. The third and fourth lines have to shut down the scoring chances. The offensive players have to remember there are two parts of the game. To be fair, the secondary scoring has to step up. They can’t just rely on the top six to compete. They must play a complete game. 

We know what we will get out of Barzal, Horvat, and Nelson. They will be there day in and day out. We need to know what we will get from Lee, Palmieri, and the most significant unknown, the Russian forward, Tsyplakov. If those last three meet expectations, it will go a long way toward the Islanders becoming successful. 

The defense is an interesting proposition. A lot hinges on Noah Dobson leading the way—he’s got to channel that first-half energy from last season and leave the second-half struggles behind. Then there is Ryan Pulock; he needs to unleash that killer shot of his more often. I mean, shoot the puck! Ryan has a lethal weapon in his shot; he needs to use it. The others just have to do their jobs, nothing more, nothing less. And let’s hope Adam Pelech stays healthy. It would be huge for the Islanders down the stretch. 

Here’s to a fun season ahead!

Randy.