tonytalkssports My Take on Sports, particularly the Yankees, Maple Leafs and Browns

Better Effort, Same Result: Leafs Lose 1-0 In A Shootout

If over the last 14 games the Toronto Maple Leafs had played the way they did last night they would probably still be in eighth place in the Eastern Conference and heading for the playoffs. Despite suffering a 1-0 shootout loss to the Philadelphia Flyers, the physical effort and defensive responsibility that the Leafs demonstrated would seem to indicate that Coach Randy Carlyle's philosophy is gaining acceptance. Unfortunately, it is probably too little too late for a playoff spot this season.

Jonas Gustavsson played an exceptional game last night, making key saves when necessary and not allowing what has been a routine soft goal. The Monster really looked focused last night and I didn't see much of the flopping around the crease that has been a part of his game. His rebound control was excellent. Gustavsson is a UFA at the end of this season and the Leafs will have to make a decision. I don't see how Brian Burke can go into next season with Gustavsson and James Reimer so an evaluation is going to have to be made on who to keep and who to let go.

I was really impressed with the David Steckel-Carter Ashton-Joey Crabb line. They really had a physical presence and had no problem moving to the front of the Flyers net. I don't want to overhype the kid, but Carter Ashton is big, strong and willing to go in the dirty areas in the other team's zone. It seemed last night that this trio spent more time in the Flyers zone than in their own end. I would love to see Ashton get some power play time with the express job of going to the net. Would be nice if he could develop into a Ryan Malone type player.

Late this afternoon the Leafs will take on the Capitals in Washington. If the Leafs are to have any chance to make the playoffs then a win today is a must. It will be interesting to see how this team plays after such a tough game last night and who will be the starter in net. If the Maple Leafs bring the same type of intensity today as they did against the Flyers, then they have a chance to pull out a win. More importantly, we may find out what players have bought into their new coach's style of play and those that may not be here at the start of the 2012-13 season.