Ron Guillet
*I'll be honest, I don't even know what the hell this title means, but it gave me a chuckle, so I hope I get a cheap laugh out of ya'*
You know what really grinds my gears?
James Reimer has been a forgotten player amongst the Leafs' prospect cupboard.
 Ten questions to ponder while you prepare for the Leafs - Thrashers tilt tonight:
Â
Â
March 5th will be a significant date for Anton Stralman.
Why?
He's going to be re-inserted into the Leafs' lineup, and finally serve the role he was intended to grasp as an offensive defenseman in the NHL.
*I can't let you read this blog without first apologizing for the title. Shameful, just shameful*
14 goals and 30 points in 42 games played – on pace for 26 goals and 58 points.
In the event of Tomas Kaberle waiving his NTC on March 4th, I'd be willing to bet that his fellow countryman, and teammate, Pavel Kubina, would follow suit.
If the Leafs' top two offensive defensemen are subtracted from the lineup, not only will a wealth of skill and potential be imported into their farm system, but it'll pave the way for a top 5 pick at the 2009 Draft.
Brian Burke made his first two moves as Leafs GM – acquiring Brad May from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for a conditional 6th round pick in 2010, and assigning Nikolai Kulemin to the Toronto Marlies. Minor moves, but perhaps Burke has finished analyzing his team and is ready to reshape the roster to his liking.
[more…]
Justin Pogge debuted his NHL career with a .905 SV% and a 2.00 GAA.
Not too shabby.
Pogge displayed an active glove hand, quick lateral movement, solid positioning and decent rebound control. An aspect of his game I was particularly impressed with was his ability to make himself look big. Possessing a 6'3, 205 pound frame, Pogge's size is best utilized when screened or making the save through a crowd – an asset Vesa Toskala is not blessed with.
Ed. Note: The timing seems just about right as the Leafs play Atlanta in Atlanta on Monday. Obviously, Ron Wilson will have to test him in spotlight of the ACC but this seems like the perfect scenario for Pogge to get the first one under his belt. If this experiment goes well, it may mean that Curtis Joseph will hang up his skates, assume a coaching position of some sort and Justin Pogge will back-up Toskala with a healthy dosage of appearances.... not to get too far ahead of myself, though.
It appears Vesa Toskala has been complaining of a sore groin for some time, and during the Leafs' 7-3 win over the Pens last night, the soreness had reached a limit. TSN is reporting that Toskala will be out of the lineup when the Leafs face the Thrashers on Monday.
Vesa Toskala has reclaimed his role as the Leafs' top player.
Similar to last season, Toskala got off to a slow start, struggling to provide his team with solid goaltending. Looking at how the defense has performed this season, consistent goaltending is a necessity.
Wow.
Lee Stempniak exchanged for Alexander Steen and Carlo Colaiacovo.
I like it, and here’s why:
