Rigamarole - A Foot in the Crease - Episode 2.11

www.afootinthecrease.com

So this is it, we’ve hit the quarter mark of the NHL season. The Leafs having played 21 games, are off to a better start than many had predicted but as previously mentioned, are actually only marginally better than they were at this time a year ago. Netminding has not been an issue, regardless of whether Raycroft, Aubin or just last night, Tellqvist have received the call. In fact, the Leafs owe at least a handful of points they have picked up this year to the play of their netminders, something they could not often say was the case last season until JS Aubin came along late in the season and nearly lifted the Leafs single handedly into the playoffs. Aubin and Tellqvist have made it clear the Leafs can take their time with Raycroft’s injury.

Sundin’s absence, however, is becoming more noticeable. He is clearly missed on the power play along with his ability to help establish a forecheck with his strong play low in the zone. In neither of the past two contests have the Leafs had a particularly strong offensive zone presence. Sundin is targeting next Saturday as a return; however, that could be slightly optimistic considering that would mean he would be returning only 19 days since suffering the injury. Having just started a stretch of 5 games in 8 nights, a successful next ten days will be crucial for the Leafs to maintain their position in the standings. With scoring having dried of late and Sundin still a good week away from returning, there is the possibility that the Leafs could struggle through this next stretch. Let’s hope Leafs tow the line for the next week or so until help arrives.

In that time, look for Antropov and Ponikarovsky to continue their strong play. Of late, both have started to show why the Leafs have been oh so very patient with them for so many years. Alex Steen, after stumbling out of the gate, has shown some improvement in the last week. Though you still won’t find his name all over the score sheet, he has started to get more involved in the play and create a few more chances. I think it’s only a matter of time until he puts a few in the net but hey, all that was just rigamarole.