Simple Hockey Gets The Job Done In Washington

For the second game in a row with a lineup so depleted that would cause most teams to simply throw in the towel, the Maple Leafs found a way to pick up a much needed two points. Without many of their regular players, several members of the Baby Leafs and other players who are usually not expected to contribute offensively stepped up and played solid games for the Leafs. The team also had a very good defensive effort for the second night in a row. Without many regular players in the lineup, a solid defensive effort is crucial to the Maple Leafs’ success while these key players recuperate.

Alexei Ponikarovsky has played extremely well since being called up earlier in the season. Last night, Ponikarovsky recorded two goals marking his first two goal game of his career. Playing on a line with Joe Nieuwendyk and Nik Antropov, Ponikarovsky has really fit in well and has been somebody who has been contributing in various ways. Thankfully the Leafs have stuck with him over the past few seasons as he is now beginning to show what he is capable of. When he is physical and uses his size, he can be a very effective power forward.

Craig Johnson got his first goal as a Maple Leaf in his second career Leaf game on a scramble infront of Olaf Kolzig. Carlo Colaiacovo stepped in from the point and put a shot on net which caused a large rebound that Craig Johnson slid in from his belly.

The Maple Leafs will take on the always difficult Montreal Canadiens on Saturday before returning home to play the Carolina Hurricanes next Tuesday, the game in which Owen Nolan is expected to make his return from his eye injury.