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

Tuesday’s Thoughts

While wondering who the Toronto media will pick on for last night's loss to Boston, here is what's on my mind this morning:

* The Toronto Maple Leafs played their first playoff game at home in 9 years and dropped a 5-2 decision to the Boston Bruins and now trail in the series 2-1. The game was closer than the score indicated as the 5th goal was in an empty net. The Leafs deserve full marks for not quitting in the third period as they scored early and had numerous chances to pull the game within one goal and possibly tie it.

* The Leafs failed to use their speed when breaking out of their own zone and made way to many passes which resulted in giveaways or missed opportunities. Tyler Bozak possibly had his worst game of the season as he lost face off after face off and made some terrible passes. The Leaf power play was awful and Cody Franson seemed to have all kinds of trouble handling passes. Seems that the Bruins are really pressuring the points so the Leafs may have to cycle more down low when they have the man-advantage.

* Nazem Kadri was a no-show for most of the game and one has to wonder if the playoff experience is overwhelming the young center. One youngster who does not seem to be overwhelmed is Jake Gardiner. His offensive ability was evident last night and it is clear that the Bruins can't skate with this kid. Would like to see him get more power play time.

* The New York Knicks face a must win situation tonight as they face the Indiana Pacers in Game 2 at MSG. The Knicks are successful when there is ball movement as opposed to everything revolving around Carmelo Anthony. It's very frustrating watching Anthony dribbling up top and the four other guys just standing around.

* Before the playoffs started, I thought the Knicks were going to be hurting next year if they could not re-sign JR Smith. However, after seeing his last four games, I wonder if the Knicks truly would be hurt if Smith takes his act elsewhere. JR can be an electric player if he drives to the basket. When he just sits out there and takes 20 to 30 foot jump shots, it's difficult to watch.

* Tonight's Game 3 of the Montreal-Ottawa series should be very interesting. The Canadiens were pathetic Sunday night getting whipped on the scoreboard and in every fight. Montreal needs to get themselves emotionally under control otherwise this series could end in 5 games.

* By the way the bush league antics of Chris Neil & Company after the third period brawl on Sunday night is one of the reasons why they are one of my least favorite teams. Waving their arms to exhort the crowds is wrestling-like. I would love to see them get their clocks cleaned.

* Felt bad for the New York Islanders on Sunday as they played their hearts out against Pittsburgh only to lose in overtime.

* The Yankees have been staying afloat with a makeshift lineup but one has to wonder how long this will last. It appears that some of the walking wounded may be getting ready to comeback which will certainly help.

* I'm beginning to wonder if Eduardo Nunez is injury prone. This being his first shot at being the full-time shortstop has been marred by being out of the lineup on several occasions. Remember, this was the guy that Brian Cashman would not part with for Cliff Lee.

* A caller to Mike Francesa yesterday was critical of the Yankees not developing any homegrown players. Francesa defended the Yankees by saying that because they have been in the playoffs 16 out of the last 17 years that they have not been in a position to draft top line talent. Please!!! The Yankees are the richest team in all of sports. With that in mind, they should have the best scouting staff available to find talent all over the world. How does a team like the St. Louis Cardinals do it???

* Don't know why but I have grown to admire the play of the Chicago Bulls. Their intensity is unmatched and their head coach is underrated.

* If I read one more time in the Cleveland Plain Dealer that Jason Campbell has a legitimate shot to be the number one QB for the Browns I am going to spit blood. Campbell is not the answer and anyone who believes that is out of their minds. I don't know why but I'm thinking it will be another long season for my Brownies.

* And finally, the Buffalo Sabres handling of Mikhail Grigerenko is a glaring example of the ineptitude of Darcy Reiger. If they wanted to expose him to professional hockey they should have given him more time in the American Hockey League. Keeping him with the big club and giving him limited minutes or putting him in the press box did him no good. But what do you expect from a GM who signed Ville Leino to a six year $27 million contract.