MIGHT THE LEAFS BE OVERCONFIDENT?
What, are you out of your mind? Just because the Maple Leafs won a playoff game in Boston doesn't mean they think they can win the series. Or does it? Confidence has a lot to do with advancing in the playoffs. You don't think Phil Kessel has some swagger now? What about Kadri, JVR, Jake Gardner, James Reimer and Dion Phaneuf? They got the split they wanted. They beat the Bruins in a playoff game for the first time in over 40 years (I know, it seemed like longer). Their coach is being proclaimed as a genius for matching lines so effectively as the visiting coach in Boston. Imagine how well he'll do in the next two games when he gets the last change. Yes, it might be tough for the Leafs to stay within themselves. They've experienced playoff success, albeit for one game, and they want to keep the feeling going.
Of course, the Bruins have been chomping at the bit to prove that Saturday night's loss was just a blip. Since the Leafs pushed back quite strongly after their opening game debacle, there's no reason to think the Bruins won't be out to prove something tonight at the noisy Air Canada Centre. And just remember, the road team is supposedly less affected by the outside goings-on in a hockey mad city like Toronto. So, while Leaf players try to avoid family and friends with ticket requests, etc., the Bruins will be holed up in their hotel rooms, waiting to be released from their cages in time to exact revenge on the Leafs. The Leafs will have to channel their emotions positively, and not succumb to the playoff hype, and there is a LOT of it. I expect the atmosphere around the A.C.C. will be electric before, during and after the game. And don't forget, whichever team takes a 2-1 series lead tonight, things will be just as crazy over the next couple of days in advance of Wednesday's Game #4. I'm predicting a Boston win tonight because I believe this series will go the full 7 games. It'll be a war of attrition and I picked the Leafs to survive and advance to the next round.
Boy, do I ever enjoy watching the Montreal Canadiens blow up. I don't know what it is, but when the Habs whine and complain, it's music to my ears. Coach Michel Therrien, PK Subban, Max Patch, Brandon Prust, doesn't matter. They feel somewhat entitled, and if things don't go their way, they call out the other team's players and coaches. Why pick on Ottawa coach Paul MacLean's poor eyesight? Or his walrus-like mustache? Or the fact that he might be, like most middle-aged men, a few pounds overweight? Do the Habs really think he sent Eric Gryba out there to hurt Lars Eller and get suspended? Give me a break. MacLean is a smart coach and he knows how to control his emotions. Therrien would be wise to calm down a bit and play it cool. It says here he won't. I like the Sens in that series.
Congratulations to Jay Onrait and Dan O'Toole from TSN, who have been lured down to sunny California by FOX Sports. According to those in the know, Jay and Dan will be the hosts of the 11 pm nightly highlight show. Better brush up on your U.S. college football and basketball boys! Best of luck in L.A.
No comments:
Post a Comment