Shit I'm pessimistic right now.
I know only two games have passed, and there is still 80 games left but I feel the Leafs lineup is very thin. They were fairly well organized against Ottawa for the whole game but tonight the defensive pairing of Aki Berg and Wade Belak was shambolic. Both those players were -3.
Quinn really need to improve the special teams if we are going to stand a chance against Ottawa on monday. We're missing Sundin big time. The other thing is that the Leafs won't ever be able to beat Ottawa unless Belfour is at his absolute best and the Leafs defence is playing competently. Tonight they were not. Kaberle and McCabe are getting way too many minutes.
Good having a hockey game on thanksgiving though
. I'm still kinda happy because I'm just chuffed that hockey's back. The only real bright spot tonight for the Leafs was that all the youngsters played well when they were given chances.
My only concern thus far with the 'new' NHL is that it is losing some of the old things that are vital to the game. These two are fighting and ESPECIALLY hitting. The best hockey I've ever seen was last time in the playoffs against Ottawa. The Leafs just turned it on for about 2 minutes and gave Ottawa about 15 massive hits and were pummeling the Sens. It really gets the crowd roaring because we all love it. I think it may just be that players are afraid to do anything right now, but they shouldn't be afraid to hit - they just have to not use their sticks in suspect ways. Hopefully it's just a bit of a transition period.
Anyway, I'm not in panic mode yet but I'm concerned. The Leafs havent' really impressed me much so far in what will be a division with very good teams.
Ottawa look like Chelsea at the moment
.
PS: YAY! Edmonton just beat Vancouver in the shootout. (I think Edmonton is certainly my second team - I've got a soft spot for 'em.)