Can the Leafs Fix Their Defensive Issues Before Playoffs?

In my opinion, the Maple Leafs have two main purposes going into the deadline. First up, they really need to find a solid third-line center, and second, the classic veteran defencemen. This may be harder because every team is looking for a dman. As for the centres, there are not too many available. Plus, with cap restrictions, they’ve got some limits to deal with.

My reasoning is simple. The Leafs are still giving up way too many scoring opportunities. Defensively, we have to clean up. To be fair, this is not on all the defence. Our forwards have been a bit lazy getting back into their own zone. They have to work on their entire game. Being a one-cycle player isn’t what the Leafs need. We need complete players who can do it all.

Snagging a defensive-minded third-line center would be ideal. It would be nice if he could fill in the top six in case of injuries and could add some offense. It’d be great to have someone reliable on the ice in those nail-biting moments when we’re trying to protect a lead. Come playoffs, shutting down the opposition will be vital.

The defense is still struggling in the defensive zone. We need a dman to stabilize the the third pairing. There are Way too many gaps in the defensive play. Time to fill in the gaps before the playoffs start.

The saying “defense wins cups” comes to mind. Let’s hope the Leafs adhere to this philosophy. 

Randy

Islanders’ Playoff Hopes

There is a lot of gossip or speculation about what the Islanders might do at the deadline. I had a chat with a source on this exact topic. Here is his answer: “You know Lou, he won’t give up until it’s impossible to win.” He is saying that General Lou has not given up on this team. The first sign of this is the attempt to sign Brock “Broccoli” Nelson. No guarantees here, but Brock wants to stay, and the Isles are definitely keen on keeping him.

The next bit of news on the agenda is Noah Dobson. I have never seen so much talk around Noah. Rumor has it teams are reaching out to the Isles to see if they can snag the defender. “Teams inquiring about Noah does not mean he is on the market.” Any team would have to pay an arm and a leg to persuade Lou to give up Noah. A GM’s job is to explore all his options; if they’re not, they’re not doing their job. This is just a case of a manager doing his due diligence.

If the Islanders decide to add, here are my thoughts: I limit it to two players because I am lazy. :)

Jake Evans Centre

Jake is a terrific jack-of-all-trades player. He is a fast skater who will help out in penalty killing. He will punch in with the odd offensive goal. He has an underrated shot.

Nikolai Ehlers LW

Nikolai is a significant power forward. A talented player with a terrific shot. He is potentially a 25 to 35 goal scorer. I doubt the Jets will put him on the market, but if they do, the Isles might inquire if he is available.

If you presume to know anything Lou is doing, assume you will look like a fool.