Morning Mashup: Lombardi to return in time for camp

Really? Because I actually haven’t heard it from him since his first year here.

Well then Bozak should be in the AHL too (or the 4th line) since he doesn’t fit that mold either. Neither does Lombardi actually. To be honest if this is the case he should have Lupul down there and move Kadri to the #1 line. It’s a guideline, not something written in stone. And frankly, the way he’s assembled this roster doesn’t back it up in the least.

And Bobby Ryan is a power forward, not a skilled playmaker. Their development is very different. I stand by it…if they send Kadri down again it’s a huge mistake.

Totally agree with you.

Burkie has emphasized, on a number of occasions, that RW is solely responsible for team election. I agree with you that RW should pick the most skillful, or those with the best performance. I imagine with MLSE on the block, there is tremendous pressure to make the play-offs, so RW will have to bring his A-game.

I would think on a decision like sending Kadri down to the A, there would at least be a pow wow between Burke and Ronnie.

I am very excited for our Leafs if Lombardi is healthy. You have to be strong up the middle. I feel like we have a gem in Grabovski, but Lombardi sure adds to him in that we add another hard working strong 2 way centre who can follow Grabovski’s line with the same kind of momentum. Lombardi and Armstrong with one of Frattin, Kadri, Boyce, or Brown should be able to really help us sustain pressure. I also like the Connolly line and feel it could be very effective too. Connolly is good in both ends of the ice. I think Kessel will be better defensively because he couldn’t get much worse. Lupul is could have a huge year with a good playmaker like Kessel on RW and a right handed centre like Connolly.

Anyone have anything interesting to say before I write my final post (for good this time) for the foreseeable future (which is quite long)?

Sunday nights in August are slow.

Gunner, peace. Family is important, and I know how distractions can make life difficult. Good luck to you, and will look forward to the times when you can post.

So, where are you working these days?