LEAF NOTES: Never too early for playoff prep Via sunhornby
“They have elite sticks, they always seem to come up with those 50-50 battles,” said defenceman Conor Timmins, the beneficiary of their spade work with his second goal of the season. “It’s really nice when you’re that skilled to have the puck all the time. They make great plays with it, but it’s a lot about getting the puck back and they do a great job.”Article content
“Nothing really changes, just want to be hard on pucks and compete,” Matthews said. “Willy’s been all over it, the consistency factor has been really good this year. It’s a treat to play with him.”Article contentAnother strategy the Leafs seem to be working on with an eye to April is bypassing clogged shooting lanes for a tip or backboard carom in front. They’ve also fired from close range against covered parts of the net in hopes of creating rebounds for trailers.
“It’s something we’ve talked about the whole season, trying to get it through that first layer of bodies. It’s better to try and get the puck behind those guys and try to work from there.” Then the stakes get higher with a Western road trip looming, intersected by the NHL trade deadline March 3 between games in Calgary and Vancouver.Article content
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
LEAF NOTES: Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews bring trade winds to townThe sands of time meant nothing to the Maple Leafs when preparing for Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews Wednesday night.
Read more »
Will Patrick Kane be a Maple Leaf by the trade deadline?The 34-year-old has been linked to Toronto in the media, and the Leafs have a pressing need for a top-six winger.
Read more »
Maple Leafs Notes: 'Significant interest' in Meier trade; Holl scratchedThe Timo Meier sweepstakes are in full swing, and the Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly one of four teams sharpening their pencils and prepping their best offer. But they appear to be a long shot. (lukefoxjukebox)
Read more »
LEAFS NOTES: Conor Timmins in, Justin Holl to be scratched WednesdayHoll will be scratched after he was minus\u002D3 in Toronto’s 4\u002D3 loss versus the last\u002Dplace Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday.
Read more »