Is this the turning point???

[Zee]

This head to head with NYR wil be a big two games for both teams. I'm hoping for three pts.

Let's grab 2 tonight before worrying about the next one.  Can't wait until that x appears before the Leafs in the standings.

 

[Champ Kind]

With Lupul likely to be done for the year, I'd say THIS is the turning point.

I'm as pessimistic as they come, but there's no need to jump to that conclusion.  Sometime the most vicous-looking hits aren't as bad as the most innocuous-looking.

We'll see.

That's my point.

I know.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdyRjkIPXWY[/youtube]

 

[Redleaf]

Is tonight the turning point?

 

[nutman]

Is tonight the turning point?

Hopefully for the rangers. 

 

[nutman]

Now that was a turning point... for the Rangers lol.

 

[oakl0008]

After NINE years of no postseason for Leafland...God I sure hope that this is a turning point. I hope the magic's back!  8)

 

[ZBBM]

After NINE years of no postseason for Leafland...God I sure hope that this is a turning point. I hope the magic's back!  8)

Welcome (back) aboard!

I cordially invite you to cast your vote in the MotM thread.  We're always looking to expand the electorate....

 

[oakl0008]

After NINE years of no postseason for Leafland...God I sure hope that this is a turning point. I hope the magic's back!  8)

Welcome (back) aboard!

I cordially invite you to cast your vote in the MotM thread.  We're always looking to expand the electorate....

Thank you Zanzibar. Although I'm not sure that I would be a good judge of it, I accept the invitation.

 

[Brystine]

I don't think so. First - it's a shortened season. We were riding high for awhile last season, too during the first half, and then the wheels fell out from under us (similar things have happened to other teams, like Dallas) I wouldn't be shocked if we went on a 5 game losing streak coming up here.

But anyway - should we even make the Playoffs, I doubt we go far. Currently - out of all playoff teams, we have the 3rd highest GA. We are as shaky and scatterbrained as we always were defensively, only this time we are getting some saves (and some luck) and the PK is rocking. Our goaltending looks far from stalwart, either. It's gotten the job done, but it doesn't make it look easy - and the last little while, we've been allowing 3+ goals a game.

In the Playoffs, when Defense becomes a premium, I can see our offence drying up, which is what has lead us to the point we are at now (tied for 3rd highest GF out of playoff teams) and our defense continuing to be porous.

Remember all the blown leads we've had? All the times we've sat back in leads only to give them up? That's playoff hockey. Get a lead and try and defend it. We've shown no ability to be able to do that.

If we stay in our current position, we play either Boston or Montreal, both have been better defensively (A lot better in Bostons case) and Montreal has been our equal/better in goalscoring (1 less GF in 1 less game played).

I doubt we'd pose much threat.

 

[hockeyfan1]

I don't think so. First - it's a shortened season. We were riding high for awhile last season, too during the first half, and then the wheels fell out from under us (similar things have happened to other teams, like Dallas) I wouldn't be shocked if we went on a 5 game losing streak coming up here.

But anyway - should we even make the Playoffs, I doubt we go far. Currently - out of all playoff teams, we have the 3rd highest GA. We are as shaky and scatterbrained as we always were defensively, only this time we are getting some saves (and some luck) and the PK is rocking. Our goaltending looks far from stalwart, either. It's gotten the job done, but it doesn't make it look easy - and the last little while, we've been allowing 3+ goals a game.

In the Playoffs, when Defense becomes a premium, I can see our offence drying up, which is what has lead us to the point we are at now (tied for 3rd highest GF out of playoff teams) and our defense continuing to be porous.

Remember all the blown leads we've had? All the times we've sat back in leads only to give them up? That's playoff hockey. Get a lead and try and defend it. We've shown no ability to be able to do that.

If we stay in our current position, we play either Boston or Montreal, both have been better defensively (A lot better in Bostons case) and Montreal has been our equal/better in goalscoring (1 less GF in 1 less game played).

I doubt we'd pose much threat.

Hey. whatever happened to optimism??!! 

 

[oakl0008]

I don't think so. First - it's a shortened season. We were riding high for awhile last season, too during the first half, and then the wheels fell out from under us (similar things have happened to other teams, like Dallas) I wouldn't be shocked if we went on a 5 game losing streak coming up here.

But anyway - should we even make the Playoffs, I doubt we go far. Currently - out of all playoff teams, we have the 3rd highest GA. We are as shaky and scatterbrained as we always were defensively, only this time we are getting some saves (and some luck) and the PK is rocking. Our goaltending looks far from stalwart, either. It's gotten the job done, but it doesn't make it look easy - and the last little while, we've been allowing 3+ goals a game.

In the Playoffs, when Defense becomes a premium, I can see our offence drying up, which is what has lead us to the point we are at now (tied for 3rd highest GF out of playoff teams) and our defense continuing to be porous.

Remember all the blown leads we've had? All the times we've sat back in leads only to give them up? That's playoff hockey. Get a lead and try and defend it. We've shown no ability to be able to do that.

If we stay in our current position, we play either Boston or Montreal, both have been better defensively (A lot better in Bostons case) and Montreal has been our equal/better in goalscoring (1 less GF in 1 less game played).

I doubt we'd pose much threat.

I must say I kind of agree with this. For so many years the team would ride a bit of a high at first and all would be hopeful, only to go on a massive losing streak and humiliate themselves out of the postseason. It was hard to watch.

This year, the shortened season really seems to be working for them (for now) and they're obviously in a much better position than last season. That is to be commended. BUT, I don't see this team playing as a genuine playoff team (yet). This is a completely new generation of players with no playoff experience, and none under the pressure of being a Leaf. To expect such a group to do anything significant in the postseason would be expecting too much. And to see this team get easily bumped out of the first round and get ripped from the uncompromising press in Toronto is just unfair for this group at this time. I'm not trying to coddle these guys. I'm sure they knew what they were in for when they signed up for the NHL and Toronto. That, and after missing the playoffs for the past 9 years the Leafs have had to face the press each time so maybe they're a little more prepared in that way. And about the shortened season: every team in the NHL other than the Leafs have had the benefit of less games this time around. Some did very well with the opportunity, some didn't. So far, the Leafs have and it would be too cruel to let it slip away when they are this close to what may be a breakthrough, or a fluke. 

I'm sure we can all agree that we as fans are a bit sick of the disconnect of the last decade. I know I became just a casual fan for a time when there wasn't much to cheer for. I know for one thing, no matter how bad the Leafs are, while I won't cheer them blindly...I will NEVER become a Sens fan! 

 

[OldTimeHockey]

I don't think so. First - it's a shortened season. We were riding high for awhile last season, too during the first half, and then the wheels fell out from under us (similar things have happened to other teams, like Dallas) I wouldn't be shocked if we went on a 5 game losing streak coming up here.

But anyway - should we even make the Playoffs, I doubt we go far. Currently - out of all playoff teams, we have the 3rd highest GA. We are as shaky and scatterbrained as we always were defensively, only this time we are getting some saves (and some luck) and the PK is rocking. Our goaltending looks far from stalwart, either. It's gotten the job done, but it doesn't make it look easy - and the last little while, we've been allowing 3+ goals a game.

In the Playoffs, when Defense becomes a premium, I can see our offence drying up, which is what has lead us to the point we are at now (tied for 3rd highest GF out of playoff teams) and our defense continuing to be porous.

Remember all the blown leads we've had? All the times we've sat back in leads only to give them up? That's playoff hockey. Get a lead and try and defend it. We've shown no ability to be able to do that.

If we stay in our current position, we play either Boston or Montreal, both have been better defensively (A lot better in Bostons case) and Montreal has been our equal/better in goalscoring (1 less GF in 1 less game played).

I doubt we'd pose much threat.

Guess I'll stop watching. You and TML Fan should have a party.

 

[nutman]

I don't think so. First - it's a shortened season. We were riding high for awhile last season, too during the first half, and then the wheels fell out from under us (similar things have happened to other teams, like Dallas) I wouldn't be shocked if we went on a 5 game losing streak coming up here.

But anyway - should we even make the Playoffs, I doubt we go far. Currently - out of all playoff teams, we have the 3rd highest GA. We are as shaky and scatterbrained as we always were defensively, only this time we are getting some saves (and some luck) and the PK is rocking. Our goaltending looks far from stalwart, either. It's gotten the job done, but it doesn't make it look easy - and the last little while, we've been allowing 3+ goals a game.

In the Playoffs, when Defense becomes a premium, I can see our offence drying up, which is what has lead us to the point we are at now (tied for 3rd highest GF out of playoff teams) and our defense continuing to be porous.

Remember all the blown leads we've had? All the times we've sat back in leads only to give them up? That's playoff hockey. Get a lead and try and defend it. We've shown no ability to be able to do that.

If we stay in our current position, we play either Boston or Montreal, both have been better defensively (A lot better in Bostons case) and Montreal has been our equal/better in goalscoring (1 less GF in 1 less game played).

I doubt we'd pose much threat.

I must say I kind of agree with this. For so many years the team would ride a bit of a high at first and all would be hopeful, only to go on a massive losing streak and humiliate themselves out of the postseason. It was hard to watch.

This year, the shortened season really seems to be working for them (for now) and they're obviously in a much better position than last season. That is to be commended. BUT, I don't see this team playing as a genuine playoff team (yet). This is a completely new generation of players with no playoff experience, and none under the pressure of being a Leaf. To expect such a group to do anything significant in the postseason would be expecting too much. And to see this team get easily bumped out of the first round and get ripped from the uncompromising press in Toronto is just unfair for this group at this time. I'm not trying to coddle these guys. I'm sure they knew what they were in for when they signed up for the NHL and Toronto. That, and after missing the playoffs for the past 9 years the Leafs have had to face the press each time so maybe they're a little more prepared in that way. And about the shortened season: every team in the NHL other than the Leafs have had the benefit of less games this time around. Some did very well with the opportunity, some didn't. So far, the Leafs have and it would be too cruel to let it slip away when they are this close to what may be a breakthrough, or a fluke. 

I'm sure we can all agree that we as fans are a bit sick of the disconnect of the last decade. I know I became just a casual fan for a time when there wasn't much to cheer for. I know for one thing, no matter how bad the Leafs are, while I won't cheer them blindly...I will NEVER become a Sens fan! 

I too think you should join TMLS pitty party. it seems to me you guys cant see talent. this leaf team was almost here last season, so a hockey fan with some kind of Hockey sense could see that, if we did not have the Reimer injury, we would not have took that dive. anyways thats water under the bridge.
This team is full of talent and if you cant see it then your hockey blind. we keep getting stronger and stronger. Last night showed me lots, NYR are a solid team and no easy win, yet we found a way. I  also think that any teams that are in the playoffs will be wishing they dont get us. we may not be ready for a cup, but we wont lie down eather.
So stop being such a downer, your only giving yourself a rougher ride through live being like that. and have fun at that downer\pitty party.

 

[nutman]

I think its time to load the waggon, were picking up speed so hold on tight, its going to be a fun ride.

 

[Kin]

I too think you should join TMLS pitty party. it seems to me you guys cant see talent. this leaf team was almost here last season, so a hockey fan with some kind of Hockey sense could see that, if we did not have the Reimer injury, we would not have took that dive. anyways thats water under the bridge.
This team is full of talent and if you cant see it then your hockey blind. we keep getting stronger and stronger. Last night showed me lots, NYR are a solid team and no easy win, yet we found a way. I  also think that any teams that are in the playoffs will be wishing they dont get us. we may not be ready for a cup, but we wont lie down eather.
So stop being such a downer, your only giving yourself a rougher ride through live being like that. and have fun at that downer\pitty party.

You really think you're in any sort of position to lecture other fans on what they should or shouldn't be able to see?

 

[Andy007]

I too think you should join TMLS pitty party. it seems to me you guys cant see talent. this leaf team was almost here last season, so a hockey fan with some kind of Hockey sense could see that, if we did not have the Reimer injury, we would not have took that dive. anyways thats water under the bridge.
This team is full of talent and if you cant see it then your hockey blind. we keep getting stronger and stronger. Last night showed me lots, NYR are a solid team and no easy win, yet we found a way. I  also think that any teams that are in the playoffs will be wishing they dont get us. we may not be ready for a cup, but we wont lie down eather.
So stop being such a downer, your only giving yourself a rougher ride through live being like that. and have fun at that downer\pitty party.

You really think you're in any sort of position to lecture other fans on what they should or shouldn't be able to see?

Ugh another member of the pitty partty. Whitttle itt down a bitt okay?

 

[Redleaf]

I don't think so. First - it's a shortened season. We were riding high for awhile last season, too during the first half, and then the wheels fell out from under us (similar things have happened to other teams, like Dallas) I wouldn't be shocked if we went on a 5 game losing streak coming up here.

But anyway - should we even make the Playoffs, I doubt we go far. Currently - out of all playoff teams, we have the 3rd highest GA. We are as shaky and scatterbrained as we always were defensively, only this time we are getting some saves (and some luck) and the PK is rocking. Our goaltending looks far from stalwart, either. It's gotten the job done, but it doesn't make it look easy

So, getting the job done isn't enough anymore? Now we need Reimer to make it look easy?

I'm with the nutman on this one. Just look at the win column and enjoy. If this team fizzles out in the playoffs, then so be it. We have a young and upcoming team that will take the playoff experience and build off of it. When have we been able to say that in the last 10 years?

 

[Kin]

I too think you should join TMLS pitty party. it seems to me you guys cant see talent. this leaf team was almost here last season, so a hockey fan with some kind of Hockey sense could see that, if we did not have the Reimer injury, we would not have took that dive. anyways thats water under the bridge.
This team is full of talent and if you cant see it then your hockey blind. we keep getting stronger and stronger. Last night showed me lots, NYR are a solid team and no easy win, yet we found a way. I  also think that any teams that are in the playoffs will be wishing they dont get us. we may not be ready for a cup, but we wont lie down eather.
So stop being such a downer, your only giving yourself a rougher ride through live being like that. and have fun at that downer\pitty party.

You really think you're in any sort of position to lecture other fans on what they should or shouldn't be able to see?

Ugh another member of the pitty partty. Whitttle itt down a bitt okay?

Don'tt ttell me whatt tto do.

 

[Brystine]

I too think you should join TMLS pitty party. it seems to me you guys cant see talent. this leaf team was almost here last season, so a hockey fan with some kind of Hockey sense could see that, if we did not have the Reimer injury, we would not have took that dive. anyways thats water under the bridge.
This team is full of talent and if you cant see it then your hockey blind. we keep getting stronger and stronger. Last night showed me lots, NYR are a solid team and no easy win, yet we found a way. I  also think that any teams that are in the playoffs will be wishing they dont get us. we may not be ready for a cup, but we wont lie down eather.
So stop being such a downer, your only giving yourself a rougher ride through live being like that. and have fun at that downer\pitty party.

Reimer was trending downwards since before last year. His numbers were taking a nose-dive, and while he started off the year 4-0-0, his numbers were not good at all.

Anyone who actually watched last year could have told it how we were playing wasn't sustainable - we were outscoring our problems, much like we are doing now, and it came back and bit us on the ass. As expected.

The difference this year is the PK is outstanding, but 5on5 defensively we are still as porous as ever, and it'll likely be our downfall once again.

As far as getting stronger.. at the start of the year, we were one of the best defensive teams in the league. We've since turned into one of the worst. We've got where we are off of strong offence, good goaltending, and an excellent PK.

However - if you watched any recent games you'd see what I see: This team cannot hold a lead. They can go up 2-0 going into the 3rd, and end up winning 5-4, sure they won, but how long can they continue to outscore the bad defense?

Secondly - it seems all you have to do is will yourself to score after we activate 'sit on it' mode, and you will score against us.

It's called keeping things in perspective.

 

[Brystine]

So, getting the job done isn't enough anymore? Now we need Reimer to make it look easy?

I'm with the nutman on this one. Just look at the win column and enjoy. If this team fizzles out in the playoffs, then so be it. We have a young and upcoming team that will take the playoff experience and build off of it. When have we been able to say that in the last 10 years?

Did anyone say that? I said he doesn't make it look easy. He's very, very beatable. He has tremendous weaknesses that are very, very exploitable. High-glove, he gives off tons of rebounds, he gets scatterbrained a lot of loses sight of the puck and so on and so forth.

He's gotten the job done, and he's young, so it's likely he'll improve - but let's not pretend he's infallible out there.