Who Will Take the Bull by the Horns for Toronto?

There is not much to be happy about in Maple Leaf land. The complaint I’m hearing over and over and over again is that the team has no life. I’ve listened to a lot of people saying to fire the Toronto Maple Leafs’ coach, Berube. I myself have been among those people yelling, but that might be a mistake.

I was asked, “When do we start blaming the players? We had the same problem under previous coaches and the same core players.” My take was that this is a different team, with a number of different players.

The general consensus is that these players must take responsibility for their roles. I don’t know exactly what the source of the problem is; maybe it is that they just don’t want to put in the effort. Or could it be that losing has become acceptable in the dressing room? If that is the case, then we have a major problem. These players have to learn to work hard to turn their weaknesses into strengths.

Who will step up? Who will take the bull by the horns? I want to mention a couple of good players who have exactly done that.

John Tavares

John Tavares, known to fans as JT, has been the story this season. He has come to play game after a game. What I like about John is his determination to win. He has been the best offensive player and, probably, the best defensive player. He has come so far, truly the MVP.

Nick Robertson

Nick Robertson has taken the bull by the horns. He is playing like he needs to. He’s been asking for the playing time. The Maple Leafs are finally giving it to him. He has taken it and run with it. His stats are not bad: 5 goals and six assists in 19 games. What really makes me happy is his skating and his hustle. If he continues to put in the effort, there may be hope for him yet.

Troy Stecher’s debut

Troy was a good, useful defenceman in the past. He is playing very well. What makes him useful is that he plays within his limits; he won’t push past those limits. He’s not fancy, he’s just reliable. He is there when he is needed. He is a steady sixth defenceman.

Final Word

They are going to have to keep their eyes on the prize. They have to stay focused. Everyone has to do their job. John is taking over this team right now, and he needs the rest of the team to step up. If they do, the Toronto Maple Leafs can still make this season memorable.

How could I end this blog without mentioning the goal last night? That ass kicking by John Tavares was probably one of the best plays I’ve seen. Then, of course, the toe-drag by William Nylander and the deke around the goalie was the ultimate goal. What a great way to win the game.

Randy