Leafs Make It Six In A Row

For some reason, the more key players out of the lineup, the better the Toronto Maple Leafs play. With Antropov, Mogilny, Roberts and Belak out of the lineup, the Leafs have won six straight games. Tonight’s game, the second game in the home and home with New York Rangers, was old time hockey at its best. It was wide open with end to end action resulting in lots of goals and a major fight in the second period with three separate fights going on at the same time.

Mats Sundin played an outstanding game adding to his list of credentials taking over the lead in game winning goals as a Leaf with his sixty-fourth game winning goal in a Leaf uniform. He recorded this milestone on one of the most amazing goals a hockey fan will ever see. While fighting off a defender, Sundin muscled his way out infront of the net, spun around and roofed a laser backhand shot over the shoulder of Mike Dunham. It was extremely appropriate for Sundin to record this milestone on a typical Sundin goal on a wrap around from behind the net.

Owen Nolan and Matt Stajan played strong games as well, as they have been doing throughout this six game winning streak. Stajan seems to look better each game as he continues to gain confidence while playing in key situations. Nolan looks like a renewed player exhibiting heart and determination many though he was incapable of. Playing through the obvious pain of a hand injury he sustained on a blocked shot, he was still able to put a tremendous game together.

Joe Nieuwendyk played his best game since returning from his back injury scoring three points in the game. He is somebody that must contribute as the Leafs press on without a few of their key players.