Leafs Cannot Catch Up After Slow Start

The Maple Leafs were unable to rebound from another slow start early in the game and eventually dropped their third game in a row to the Tampa Bay Lightning by a score of 4-3. Mikael Tellqvist, making his fifth consecutive start, suffered the loss despite playing fairly well. It is evident that the Leafs miss Ed Belfour as they have not played with the same kind of confidence that they show when Belfour is in goal.

One of the major problems of late for the Maple Leafs has been their inability to score the first goal. Often people underestimate the importance of the first goal of the game; however, it is quite important especially when playing with a backup goalie. By scoring the game’s first goal, it allows a team to dictate the style of play and to tighten up by playing stingy defense. Not only have the Leafs not been scoring the game’s first goal, they have been allowing several early goals forcing them to open up the game to get more chances thus giving up even more chances on defense. The last two times the Leafs have registered the game’s first goal (February 19 versus Carolina, February 21 versus Montreal); they have come away with victories. Coincidence? Probably not.

Ed Belfour will decide again tomorrow during the morning skate whether or not he is capable of playing in tomorrow’s game against New Jersey. Considering the offensive roll they have been on and their always spectacular goaltending, it could be a tough night for the Leafs if they are not at the top of their game.