X75 Productions

Tag: Toronto Maple Leafs

  • William Nylander Rumors Swirling

    William Nylander Rumors Swirling

    Training Camp, Pre-Season and 19 games into the regular season and here we still sit awaiting any movement from the Leafs only contract holdout this season William Nylander. For a while now we’ve heard GM Kyle Dubas state he is not trading Nylander and they will come to terms on an agreement. But as the deadline looms rumors have squeeked through the cracks and it appears Dubas is still looking to sign Nylander but now has accepted that the young forward might either sit out or they can trade him for some value.

     

    It was reported on November 10th by Elliot Friedman that the Leafs have indicated that Nylander is available and have asked teams to put forward what is available and what is not.

    https://twitter.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1061442109868134400

     

    With that being said I want to give everyone an idea of what the packages are that have been floating around recently for Nylander.

    I’ve heard 4 teams are in hard for Nylander. 2 of the 4 teams are basically all hands on deck for Nylander.

    The 4 teams are Carolina, St.Louis, Los Angeles, and Anaheim

    The 2 teams that are all in are Carolina and St.Louis

    I’ve heard as many as 7 other teams have kicked tires, a few of those being New York Rangers, Buffalo Sabres, Boston Bruins, and Philadelphia Flyers. But it appears the asking price is too much for these teams. The Leafs seem to be wanting a top 4 defender and a top 9 winger. I will tell you some of the deals flying around out their and do my best to explain what the Leafs will be getting in return.

     

    Offer #1 – Anaheim and Toronto

    To Anaheim: William Nylander

    To Toronto: Brandon Montour and Nick Ritchie

    Montour is a 2nd round pick of the Anaheim Ducks who stepped onto their defence and has made significant contributions. Montour’s style of play is most likely compared to Tyson Barrie, which shouldn’t be very interesting for Toronto. Barrie is a turnover machine who gets caught out of position all the time. But Montour’s offensive upside is huge, he’s a great skater and has great vision. Nick Ritchie doesn’t really make much sense for Toronto, he hasn’t shown much offensive upside since coming to the NHL and seems like more of a player built for the truculence era. To me this deal doesn’t make much sense. The Leafs don’t need grit they are a speed/skill team and Montour is a younger version of Jake Gardiner.

     

    Offer #2 – Los Angeles and Toronto

    To LA: William Nylander

    To Toronto: Jake Muzzin, Adrian Kempe and a draft pick.

    Jake Muzzin is your prototype 2way defencemen, good wrister, good passer and pretty hard nosed in the defensive zone. He will block shots and has a good stick. Kind of the defender the Leafs are looking for. One problem exists Muzzin is 32 and I’m pretty sure the Leafs would rather keep the defencemen they get young. Kempe is an intriguing piece, he has some serious upside but has yet to show a lot in his short time. But this could be possible to the structure that the Kings have played. Once again not a fan of this deal for the reason of the age of Muzzin.

     

    Offer #3 – Toronto and St. Louis

    To St.Louis: William Nylander & Martin Marincin

    To Toronto: Colton Parayko & Nikita Soshnikov

    This deal feels like it’s NHL 19 and I want to smash the accept button. Colton Parayko is everything the Leafs could want in a defender and more. Great shot, blocks shots, hits, great first pass, right handed shot and he’s 6’6 and only 26. Getting rid of Marincin and getting Soshnikov back would only add to this deal. Love this deal for Toronto and is my 2nd favorite offer.

     

    Offer #4 – Toronto and Carolina

    To Carolina: Williams Nylander

    To Toronto: Brett Pesce, Teuvo Teravainen and a 1st round pick

    This deal is jaw dropping. Brett Pesce is considered by most scouts, and analysts to be an elite shutdown defender, who can skate and put some points on the board. Pesce is 6’3 and willing to do everything including block shots from Zdeno Chara. Teravainen offers some more scoring in the bottom 6 with potential to move up to the top 6 and the 1st round pick could be anything. This is my favorite deal as I am a huge fan of Pesce.

    But that’s all the information I got on the situation. If you have heard anything else be sure to hit me up in the comments or on twitter @gardskie.

     

    You can watch TXHT Live this Tuesday at 8p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.

  • November 17th, 2018 — News and Notes

    November 17th, 2018 — News and Notes

    Today is Saturday, November 17th, 2018, and these are your news and notes…

     

    There were six contests in action yesterday.

     

     

    DALLAS 1, Boston 0 (OT)

     

    Dallas Stars G Ben Bishop became the fifth player in franchise history to record a shutout over the Boston Bruins.

     

    Buffalo 2, WINNIPEG 1 (SO)

     

    Buffalo Sabres Jeff Skinner scored in the contest, his eighth goal since November 1st, to give the Sabres the shootout win over the Winnipeg Jets last night.

     

    Los Angeles 2, CHICAGO 1 (SO)

     

    Los Angeles G Calvin Petersen registered 34 saves in the contest and would turn aside two shots in the shootout give Petersen his first NHL win in the Kings contest over the Chicago Blackhawks.

     

    Washington 3, COLORADO 2 (OT)

     

    Alex Ovechkin has 681 goals (regular-season and playoffs combined) to tie Dino Ciccarelli for 17th place all-time.

     

    Nicklas Backstrom scored the game-winner just 22 seconds into the overtime to give the Washington Capitals the 3-2 win in Denver last night.

     

    Game Recap – 11/16/2018 – Washington Capitals v. Colorado Avalanche

     

    St. Louis 4, VEGAS 1

     

    St. Louis Blues Ryan O’Reilly has at least one point in 11 out of the last 12 games and leads the Blues with 23 points on the season.  O’Reilly also scored two goals in the contest.

     

    Toronto 2, ANAHEIM 1 (OT)

     

    For the second time in franchise history, the Toronto Maple Leafs ended up sweeping the California road-trip in the Maple Leafs overtime win over the Anaheim Ducks.

    Patrick Marleau scored his 539th career goal, passing Keith Tkachuk for 32nd place on the all-time list.

    TXHT’s Toronto Maple Leafs contributor Steve Gardiner has your recap of the game at the following page.

    Game Recap – 11/16/2018 – Toronto Maple Leafs v. Anaheim Ducks

     

    Today there are 11 games on the docket…

     

    There are two options for this week’s NHL European Game of the Week today.

    For more news, notes, info, and stats…

    In NHL news…

     

    -Arizona Coyotes F Josh Archibald was suspended for two games for his illegal check to the head of Nashville Predators F Ryan Hartman in Thursday night’s contest by the NHL’s Department of Player Safety yesterday evening.

     

    In the NWHL…

    The NWHL returns to action TODAY.

    This weekend’s schedule of NWHL games…

    This week’s NWHL Twitter Game of the Week is Sunday and pits the Metropolitan Riveters against the Connecticut Whale.

     

    You can watch TXHT Live next Tuesday at 8p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.

  • November 14th, 2018 — News and Notes

    November 14th, 2018 — News and Notes

     

     

    Today is Wednesday, November 14th, 2018, and these are your news and notes…

     

    There were nine contests in action last night…

     

    NEW JERSEY 4, Pittsburgh 2

    New Jersey’s Taylor Hall recorded his eighth career four-point performance in the Devils 4-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins.

     

    NY ISLANDERS 5, Vancouver 2

     

    Mathew Barzal of the NY Islanders would register his 100th career point in his 101st game, becoming the sixth player to reach the 100 point mark among active NHL players.

     

     

    The Islanders would go on to rout the Vancouver Canucks 5-2

     

    Florida 2, PHILADELPHIA 1

    Florida’s Mike Hoffman would score to extend his point-scoring streak to an NHL-high 13 games on the season in the Florida Panthers one-goal win over the Philadelphia Flyers last night.

    Also in this contest, Panthers G Roberto Luongo became the fourth goaltender in League history to win four contests to be at the age of 39 or older.

    BUFFALO 2, Tampa Bay 1

    Buffalo has now won three in a row and seven out of their last 11 in the big win over the Tampa Bay Lightning 2-1 in Buffalo last night.

     

    DETROIT 6, Arizona 1

     

    Before the contest, the Detroit Red Wings held their pre-game skate in the Hockey Fights Cancer practice jerseys.

     

    https://twitter.com/DetroitRedWings/status/1062505290602631168

     

    Washington 5, MINNESOTA 2

    Tom Wilson would return to action, by registering his first goal of the season, and helped the defending champions take down the Minnesota Wild with a 5-2 win.

    Full Gameday Preview and Coverage – 11/13/18 – Washington Capitals v. Minnesota Wild

     

    EDMONTON 6, Montreal 2

    Edmonton’s Connor McDavid would have his 31st three-point contest, all assists, in Edmonton’s big win over the Canadiens.  Evgeny Malkin and Patrick Kane are the two players behind McDavid with 28 and 27, respectively.  This mark dates back to the 2015-16 NHL season.

    Despite Montreal Canadiens Max Domi registering a goal in the first six minutes in the contest to tie the game 1-1, it would not be enough as the Edmonton Oilers would go on to defeat Montreal 6-2.

    Domi’s goal would be his 10th of the season and the most of his career since the 2015-16 season.

     

    Toronto 5, LOS ANGELES 1

    The Toronto Maple Leafs began their West Coast trip with a big win over the Los Angeles Kings 5-1.

    TXHT’s Toronto Maple Leafs contributor, Steve Gardiner has your recap of that contest at the following link.

    Toronto @ Los Angeles – 14/11/2018 – Game Day Preview and Recap

     

    SAN JOSE 5, Nashville 4

    San Jose Sharks Erik Karlsson would become the fifth player to record 400 career assists and achieved this mark in 646 games with the Sharks defeating the Nashville Predators 5-4.

    Joe Thornton of the Sharks would reach the 400 career goal mark and became the 11th player to have at least 400 goals and 1,000 assists in their careers.

    Today, there are four games on the schedule:

     

    For more news, notes, info, and stats:

     

    In NHL news…

    -Sportsnet and Hockey Night in Canada’s Elliotte Friedman released a new episode of the “31 Thoughts” podcast today.

    https://twitter.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1062805606145286144

     

    -The Los Angeles Kings traded F Tanner Pearson for Pittsburgh Penguins F Carl Hagelin earlier today.

     

    You can watch TXHT Live tonight at 7p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.

  • A Maple Leaf prospect overview – Part 3

    A Maple Leaf prospect overview – Part 3

    If you don’t follow much of the American Hockey League, OHL, KHL or any of the Swedish Leagues, that’s 100% ok. By the end of this article, you will have an overview of what you can expect coming out of the Leafs organization over the next few years and if I can give you hint, you should be very excited. These are in no particular order, just going to do my best to give you an overview of what’s in the Maple Leafs system over the next few weeks.

    Part 3 will consist of 5 players that we haven’t discussed and are a mix of players on the verge of making the Leafs roster and a couple that are surprises to be on this list. This will conclude the prospect overview.

    1. Pierre Engvall– Drafted in the 7th round, #188 overall, in 2014
      Position: Left Wing
      Shoots: Left
      Born: May 31st, 1996 — Ljungby, Sweden
      Height: 6’3”
      Weight: 190 lbs
    1. Background: Engvall came from the Swedish leagues after scoring 20 goals and jumped onto the Marlies roster for the last 10 games putting up 8 points and again putting up strong point in the AHL Playoffs
    2. Scouting Report:
      • Skating – Engvall is not the fastest skater but by no means is he slow either. He has good agility and good edge work. Needs to build some more strength to make him harder to knock off the puck.
      • Offensively – Engvall can play the cycle game and has great on ice vision. Passing is his greatest strength, he’s creative in using whether it’s behind the back or right through the seam and on the top. Engvall can score with a very nice wrist shot and has a pretty decent slapper to top it off with
      • Defensively – Engvall blocks shots, has a great stick and is always in the right position. He never forgets to back either.
      • Comparison: If I had to choose on style alone, a bigger version of Connor Brown
    1. Calle Rosen– Free Agent signing from Sweden in 2017
      Position: Defence
      Shoots: Left
      Born: February 2nd, 1994 — Vaxjo, Sweden
      Height: 6‘1”
      Weight: 195

      1. Background: Another Swedish defencemen that signed with Toronto in 2017. Rosen much different, made the Leafs roster out of camp but only played 4 games and was sent to the Marlies where he put big numbers 4 goals and 22 assists in 62 games and then kicked it up in the AHL playoffs scoring 5 goals 11 assists in 16 games.
      2. Scouting Report:
        • Skating: Slick skater and excellent acceleration. Superb edge work and pivots. His skating ability is the bridge to his two-way game. Rosen could potentially be a top 4 guy if he puts on some lower body weight to make him more difficult to knock off the puck.
        • Offence: Amazing vision on the ice, and moves the puck well. He can retrieve dump-ins and skate them out effectively. Rosen is not a big risk taker and rarely jumps into the rush. Makes simple but smart plays at the blue and keeps the puck moving. Rosen has a good shot but it’s not overpowering
        • Defence: Rosen brings a solid defensive game, his speed keeps players in front of him and Rosen has a fantastic stick that causes a lot of turnovers. He then takes the puck and turns it into instant offence.
        • Comparison: Closest Style comparison would be Kris Letang (with less offence and better defence)
    1. Yegor Korshev – Drafted in the 2nd round, #31 overall, in 2016
      Position: Right Wing
      Shoots: Left
      Born: July 10th, 1996 — Novosibirsk, Russia
      Height: 6‘4”
      Weight: 180 lbs

      1. Background: Korshev continues to improve every season setting career highs in points every year the last 3 years.
      2. Scouting Report:
        • Skating: Korshev has good skating and good acceleration and is very strong on his skates. He uses the balance and strength on his skates to cradle the puck and fight through the checks.
        • Offence: Great stickhandler will dangle you one on one. Excellent playmaker and uses his stickhandling and positioning to make room for his teammates. He needs to put on more weight, loves the cycle game and wins tons of puck battles with his size. Which will get better as he puts more weight on and grows into his body. Has high end hockey IQ and always seems to make the smart play. Has a decent wrist shot but could improve his release. Korshev scores the majority of his goals from right around the night using his big body. Can also score by rebounds, tip-ins and one timers.
        • Defence: Korshev brings a gritty game to defence, loves to hit. His stick is huge at cutting down lanes and he’s in position pretty well all the time, from time to time he makes the normal young player makes while playing defence.
        • Comparison: Closest comparison of style Nikolai Kulemin. But with more high ends to his game.

    4. Jeremy Bracco– Drafted in the 2nd round, #61 overall in 2015- Kitchener Rangers
    Position: Right Wing
    Shoots: Right
    Born: March 17th, 1997 — Freeport, New York
    Height: 5‘10”
    Weight: 190 lbs

    1. Background: Bracco had a solid first season with the Marlies, although he was scratched for most of the AHL playoffs due to the Leafs sending back players like Andreas Johnsson and Carl Grundstrom to the Marlies for their playoff run. Bracco has always been talked about for his diminutive size and told he might never make an NHL roster because of it.
    2. Scouting Report:
      • Skating: If you’re a small forward in the NHL, there’s one thing you need to have to make up for it. Bracco has enough speed to pass it on to 5 more players. Excellent speed, acceleration and edge work to avoid defenders on a dime.
      • Offence: Bracco has great hands that always make him dangerous off the rush with his insane speed. He has fantastic vision and passing skills which make him the ideal playmaker. Bracco has a good wrist shot but is hesitant to shoot it, that will be something that needs to change, as it did with Mitch Marner. The one thing you’ll about this kid is he’s not afraid to go to the dirty areas.
      • Defence: This is where Bracco needs work. He has tendency to not back check hard and to fly the zone early. He won’t earn any roster spots playing like that in the NHL. Especially not under Mike Babcock.
      • Comparison: Closest comparison Johnny Gaudreau

    5. Andreas Borgman– Free Agent signing from Sweden in 2017
    Position: Defence
    Shoots: Left
    Born: June 18th, 1995 — Stockholm, Sweden
    Height: 6‘0”
    Weight: 212 lbs

    Background: Borgman was a free agent signing who made impact on last years roster. He won a spot right out of camp and played in 48 NHL games. This season he faired so well, with Ozhiganov, Holl, Rosen and Marincin outplaying him for the final spot.

    Scouting Report:

    Skating: Decent skater, with adequate edgework and a strong lower body that helps him win puck battles

    Offence: Borgman’s slapper is a force to be reckoned with. A bomb and accurate, he finds ways to get it through. But an even bigger weapon for the Swede is his wrist shot. Borgman has a good first pass and stretch pass. His stickhandling, and poise with the puck is decent as well. Borgman is not afraid to take chances and join the rush and even can skate the puck out of danger.

    Defence: Borgman’s defensive game needs work. He plays a very physical brand of hockey but he needs to pick his spots better when throwing hits.  His physicality tends to make him out of position.

    Comparison: Closest comparison Colton Parayko

     

    You can watch TXHT Live Tuesday at 8p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.

  • November 11th, 2018 — News and Notes

    Today is Sunday, November 11th, 2018, and these are your news and notes.

    There were 11 games on tap yesterday…

     

    BUFFALO 4, Vancouver 3 (SO)

     

    The Buffalo Sabres overcame a multi-goal deficit in the last five minutes and would win the contest for the seventh time in franchise history and the first since March of 2010 in a 3-2 win in a shootout over the Montreal Canadiens.

     

    PHILADELPHIA 4, Chicago 0

    Philadelphia Flyers captain Claude Giroux became the ninth player to reach the 50 game mark while registering three points in a contest.

     

    Nashville 5, DALLAS 4 (OT)

     

    Mattais Ekholm netted the game-winner in the extra frame to give the Nashville Predators the 5-4 win over the Dallas Stars.

     

    Nashville is 8-0-0 on the road this season.  They are the third team in League history to win at least eight of their first road games to start the season.

     

    BOSTON 5, Toronto 1

    Boston Bruins David Pastrnak registered a hat trick for the second time this season against the Toronto Maple Leafs and joins six others for the same mark between the regular-season and the playoffs.

    TXHT’s Toronto Maple Leafs contributor Steve Gardiner has his recap of the contest at the following link.

     

    Toronto Maple Leafs @ Boston Bruins – 10/11/2018 – Game Preview & Recap

     

    MONTREAL 5, Vegas 4

     

    Between three lead changes in this contest, the Montreal Canadiens would go on to defeat the Vegas Golden Knights 5-4.  Tomas Tatar would net the game winner against his former club.

    Prior to the contest, the Montreal Canadiens honoured Max Pacioretty with a video tribute.

     

    Ottawa 6, TAMPA BAY 4

    Ottawa Senators Bobby Ryan has a three point performance, one goal and two assists, to lift the Senators over the Tampa Bay Lightning.

     

    FLORIDA 4, NY Islanders 2

     

    Florida Panthers Mike Hoffman extended his point-scoring streak to 11 games with a goal in the second period to help the Florida Panthers defeat the New York Islanders 4-2.

     

    PITTSBURGH 4, Arizona 0

     

    Pittsburgh Penguins G Casey DeSmith would net the shutout against the Arizona Coyotes with a 39 save performance and help the Penguins snap a five game slide.

     

    Detroit 4, CAROLINA 3 (SO)

     

    Detroit Red Wings G Johnathan Bernier made 45 saves and helped lift the Detroit Red Wings over the Carolina Hurricanes in a 4-3 shootout win.


    The Red Wings would also overcome a multi-goal deficit to win three consecutive games for the first time in the decorated franchise history of the Detroit Red Wings.

     

    NY Rangers 5, COLUMBUS 4 (SO)

     

    The New York Rangers have extended their point-streak in the standings to 6 games.

     

     

    Jimmy Vessey would net the winner in the shootout frame for the Rangers.

     

     

    Calgary 1, LOS ANGELES 0

     

    In the lone goal of the contest, Calgary’s Travis Hamonic would score his second goal of the season in the first three minutes of the contest.

     

    Today’s slate of games:

    nov_11th_schedy-10065829

     

    In NHL news…

    -The Florida Panthers honoured original team President, Mr. Torrey, last night with a video.  Mr. Torrey passed away back in May at the age of 83.

    Mr. William A. Torrey

    -The Dallas Stars honoured Jason Spezza who played in his 1,000th NHL game.

    -The Montreal Canadiens held their annual Military Tribute night by wearing camouflage practice jerseys before their contest against the Vegas Golden Knights last night.

     

  • November 10th, 2018 — News and Notes

    Today is Saturday, November 10th, 2018, and these are your news and notes

    There were six contests last night.

     

    TORONTO 6, New Jersey 1

    In the annual Hockey Hall of Fame game, the Toronto Maple Leafs would go on to rout the New Jersey Devils 6-1, thanks to a four-goal burst in the second period.

    Toronto’s Patrick Marleau would record his 600th career assist and Morgan Rielly would be the sixth defenceman in team history to have at least seven goals in the team’s first 16 games.

    TXHT’s Toronto Maple Leafs contributor Steve Gardiner has his recap of the contest at the following page.

    New Jersey @ Toronto – 09/11/2018 – Game Preview and Recap
    Columbus 2, WASHINGTON 1

    This contest featured a re-match of last year’s Eastern Conference First Round match-up between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Washington Capitals.

    The three goals scored in this contest were all power-play goals, with the final goal being scored by Anthony Duclair, his seventh of the season.  With Duclair’s goal, he became the fourth player in franchise history to have seven goals in 16 games played.

    November 9th, 2018 — Columbus Blue Jackets at Washington Capitals Full Gameday Preview and Coverage
    DETROIT 3, NY Rangers 2 (OT)

    The Detroit Red Wings won their fifth contest in six games after being down by two going into the third period.

    Dylan Larkin would score the game-winner with five seconds left in the overtime frame.


    ST. LOUIS 4, San Jose 0

    Ryan O’Reilly is the first player in St. Louis history to have a nine game point streak since the 2014-15 season when David Backes and Alexander Steen accomplished the same feat.


    WINNIPEG 5, Colorado 2

    Blake Wheeler had a five point contest in the Winnipeg Jets 5-2 win over the Colorado Avalanche.


    Minnesota 5, ANAHEIM 1

    The Minnesota Wild would win their fourth contest on their current road trip for the third time in franchise history as they would defeat the Anaheim Ducks 5-1.

    There are 11 contests on today’s slate…

    This week’s NHL European Game of the Week:

     

    In NHL news…

    The Hockey Hall of Fame Class of 2018 participated in the ceremonial puck drop before the contest between the Toronto Maple Leafs and New Jersey Devils.

    -In the Washington Capitals Hockey Fight Cancer Awareness night, Capitals commentator, Craig Laughlin and his wife, Linda, participated in the ceremonial puck-drop.

     

  • New Jersey @ Toronto – 09/11/2018 – Game Preview and Recap

    New Jersey @ Toronto – 09/11/2018 – Game Preview and Recap

    Time: Friday, Novemeber 9th , 2018

    Toronto: 10-5-0 for 20 points

    New Jersey: 6-6-1 for 13 points

    The Toronto Maple Leafs play their first game of a back to back starting at home in Toronto verses the New Jersey Devils. The Devils have always seemed to cause problems for the Leafs and will try to come into Toronto and spoil it again for the Leafs.

    Top Scorers/Goalie Matchup

    Mitch Marner – 19 points (5 goals 14 assists)

    Morgan Rielly – 18 points (6 goals 12 assists)

    John Tavares – 17 points (8 goals 9 assists) 49% on face-offs

    Auston Matthews – 16 points (10 goals 6 assists) 53% on Face-off

    Kyle Palmieri – 17 points (10 goals 7 assists)

    Taylor Hall– 15 points (3 goal 12 assists)

    Nico Hischier– 12 points (3 goal 9 assist)

    Travis Zajac– 10 points (5 goal 5 assists)

    Frederik Andersen

    8-5-0, 2.18 GAA .929SV%

    Keith Kincaid

    6-4-1, 2.59 GAA .918SV%

    Probable Lineups:

    Toronto:

    Kasperi Kapanen – John Tavares – Zach Hyman

    Mitch Marner – Nazem Kadri– Patrick Marleau

    Tyler Ennis – Pars Lindholm – Connor Brown

    Andreas Johnsson – Frederik Gauthier – Josh Leivo

    Morgan Rielly – Ron Hainsey

    Jake Gardiner – Nikita Zaitsev

    Travis Dermott – Igor Ozhiganov

    Frederik Andersen

    Garrett Sparks

    Scratched: Justin Holl & Martin Marincin

    Injuries: Nathan Horton (Back), Auston Matthews (Shoulder)

    Suspension: None

    New Jersey:

    Taylor Hall – Nico Hischier – Kyle Palmieri

    Marcus Johansson – Brent Seney– Jesper Bratt

    Blake Coleman– Travis Zajac – Joey Anderson

    Brian Boyle – Travis Wood – Jean-Sebastian Dea

    Mirco Mueller –Sami Vatanen

    Andy Greene – Damon Severson

    Will Butcher – Ben Lovejoy

    Keith Kincaid

    Corey Schneider

    Scratched:

    Injuries: Stefan Noesen

    Suspension: None

     

    4 Keys to Winning against New Jersey:

    1. Use your speed
      1. Don’t give the Devils an opportunity to use their speed against you. Take it to them first.
    2. Puck Possession
      1. If the Leafs can have a lot of possession, it will negate the speed the devils which is how they create offence.
    3. Taylor Hall/Kyle Palmieri
      1. Control, be physical, don’t give these 2 much room on the ice. They will create and score.
    4. 3rd Line offence
      1. Need more offence from theses guys especially while Matthews remains out.

    Game Day Lineups:

    First Period:

    New Jersey Penalty – 08:28 – Sami Vatanen 2 minutes from Kneeing

    Toronto Goal – 12:24 – John Tavares (9) from Ron Hainsey (5) and Morgan Rielly (13)

    New Jersey Penalty – 14:26 – Marcus Johansson 2 minutes from High Sticking

    Toronto Penalty – 17:14 – Nikita Zaitsev 2 minutes from Holding

     

    End of 1st – NJD – 0       TOR – 1

    Shots              07                15

    Faceoffs         7/16          9/16

    Hits               11                  6

    PP                 0/1              0/2

    Analysis:

    Leafs came ready to be aggressive against the Devils. Attacking offensively and defensively putting everything at the net and getting the most chances possible and preparing for rebounds.

    Need to Do:

    Continue the pressure and press the pace.

    Second Period:

    Toronto Goal – 01:24 – Nazem Kadri (5) from Patrick Marleau (6)

    Toronto Goal – 05:07 – Connor Brown (3) from Par Lindholm(3) and Ron Hainsey (6)

    New Jersey Goal – 07:23 – Travis Zajac (6) from Blake Coleman (2)

    Toronto Goal – 15:44 – Andreas Johnsson (1) from Jake Gardiner(8) and Par Lindholm (4)

    Toronto Goal – 17:27 – Morgan Rielly (7) from Nazem Kadri (6)

    New Jersey Penalty – 19:24 – Joey Anderson 2 minutes for Interference

     

    End of 2nd – NJD – 1        TOR – 5

    Shots               23                   27

    Faceoffs          14/38            24/38

    Hits                 26                  15

    PP                   0/1                  0/3

    Analysis:

    Leafs took the foot off the gas pedal a little and New Jersey took advantage for a bit but then they came right back. Depth is taking control of the game. Exactly what Toronto needed.

    Need to Do:

    3rd period is all about continuing to play their game. Do that and that will be a win.

    Third Period:

    Toronto Penalty – 01:51 – Par Lindholm 2 minutes for Slashing

    Toronto Goal – 12:01 – Tyler Ennis (2) Unassisted

    Toronto Penalty – 14:39 – Frederik Gauthier 2 minutes for High Sticking

    New Jersey Penalty – 15:32 – Kyle Palmieri 2 minutes for Interference

     

    End of 3rd – NJD – 1         TOR – 6

    Shots              39                   32

    Faceoffs        23/58             35/58

    Hits               39                    23

    PP                 0/3                   0/4

     Analysis:

    Huge win for Toronto on the first half of a back to back. Strong showing from the bottom 6 and a dominating performance all around. Morgan Rielly consistently showed how much better he is this season.

    Next Up:

    Toronto (11-5-0 22pts) @ Boston (8-5-2 18pts)

    New Jersey (6-6-1 13pts) @ Winnipeg (8-5-1 17pts)

     

    You can watch TXHT Live this Tuesday at 8p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.

     

  • A Maple Leaf prospect overview – Part 2

    A Maple Leaf prospect overview – Part 2

    If you don’t follow much of the American Hockey League, OHL, KHL or any of the Swedish Leagues that’s 100% ok. By the end of this article, you have an overview of what you can expect coming out of the Leafs organization over the next few years and if I can give you hint you should be very excited.

    These are no particular order just going to do my best to give you an overview of what’s in the Maple Leafs system over the next few weeks. Part 2 will consist of 4 players that aren’t very known in the Maple Leafs system.

     

    1. Sean Durzi– Drafted 2nd round 2018 (52nd overall) From the Owen Sound Attack (OHL)
      Position: Defence
      Shoots: Right
      Born: October 21st, 1998 — Mississauga, Ontario
      Height: 6’0”
      Weight: 195 lbs
    1. Background: Durzi had a rough last couple of years. In 2016 Durzi had to have surgery on his ankle as he found out that he had an extra bone and it would eventually cause serious damage. He returned in 2017 but didn’t have a strong season, in fact didn’t look anything like himself. 2017 NHL draft he was passed over by all 31 teams and went back to the OHL. He had a monster season making NHL teams take another look at him. 2018 the Leafs thought he could be a good player for them and drafted him in the 2nd
    2. Scouting Report:
      • Skating – Very good skater and intelligent puck mover. Durzi could use some edge work but his transition from offence to defence and vice versa is seamless.
      • Offensively – Great side to side movement, scores a lot of goals mainly by sneaking into nice shooting range and firing a wrister or a snapper. Improved his slap shot over the summer expect him to use it more and it’s a nice one. Amazing vision and passing ability. Needs to work on his puck protection and stickhandling. Not a Powerplay quarterback, but more of an in-zone offensive weapon.
      • Defensively – Durzi’s defensive game needs work. Durzi brings good positioning and the ability to cut down passing lanes. Very tough to beat in one-on-one situations, with a strength of Durzi’s being his backwards skating and good gap control.
      • Comparison: If I had to choose someone solely based on potential I really couldn’t find someone because of the potential that Sean Durzi has somewhat of an unknown. But what I’ve heard and saw game style wise he compares Tobias Enstrom.
    1. Semyon Der-Arguchintsev– 3rd round pick (76 overall) 2018 draft – Peterborough Petes
      Position: Center
      Shoots: Right
      Born: September 15, 2000– Moscow, Russia
      Height: 5‘10”
      Weight: 159 lbs

      1. Background: Arguchintsev has always been looked down upon because of his size. Most scouts within the KHL, and OHL and now the NHL have said he’s too small. Arguchintsev seems to have taken that as a challenge and so far he’s faired very well. KHL is trying to convince him to stay ( and seems to have failed), the OHL Peterborough Petes drafted him and helped him develop and become one of the most underrated playmaking centres in the OHL.
      2. Scouting Report:
        • Skating: Fantastic speed, can beat defenders in a heartbeat. He will need to work on his acceleration but once he gets moving it’s scary.
        • Offence: Amazing vision on the ice, Arguchintsev can easily make one tap passes right on the stick. He possesses the same kind of vision as Mitch Marner. Incredibly patient, but smart with the puck. Always thinking about his next move and can execute in a second. His Passes are always hard and accurate,, he can even make passes that jump many sticks and fall right on his teammates stick.
        • Defence: He needs to work on the defensive game, but he is not devoid of one at all. Arguchintsev backchecks and is a decent defensive player. If he can develop some acceleration (which I think he will) he could be a dynamic player at both ends of the ice.
        • Comparison: Closest comparison would Mitch Marner with less goal scoring ability.
    1. Riley Stotts – Drafted in the 3rd round (83rd overall) in the 2018 NHL draft – Calgary Hitmen (WHL)
      Position: Center
      Shoots: Left
      Born: January 5, 2000 – Winnipeg Manitoba
      Height: 6‘00”
      Weight: 174 lbs

      1. Background: Started off his seasons with the Swift Current Broncos and only had 2 points in 22 games. Was traded to the Hitmen and ended up scoring 41 points in 47 games. Stotts is a low-risk high reward kind of player.
      2. Scouting Report:
        • Skating: Good skater nothing fancy not bad not superb just good.
        • Offence & Defence: I put these 2 together for Stotts because he does nothing exceptional but everything great. He’ll probably be a 3rd line centre with good hands, faceoffs and defensive coverage. He’s a 3 zone player, always in the right position.
        • Comparison: Closest comparison Morgan Klimchuck or Joel Armia
    1. Mac Hollowell– Drafted in the 4th round (118th overall) in 2018 – Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
      Position: Defence
      Shoots: Right
      Born: Sep 26, 1998– Niagara Falls, Canada
      Height: 5‘9”
      Weight: 170 lbs
    1. Background: Just like Durzi faced some doubts about his abilities especially his size. But Hollowell took it as fuel to his game and came out flying as an over-ager in the OHL.
    2. Scouting Report:
      • Skating: Great mobility and acceleration. Once he gets moving he is hard to catch. He is at his best when he’s moving his feet.
      • Offence: Hollowell is confident with the puck on his stick and comes with really impressive vision and he never second guesses any of his decisions he makes them quick and precise. A very aggressive player, when Hollowell crosses the opposing blueline his thought are always pass or attack himself
      • Defence: a bit of neutral zone gamble, he can make a lot of mistakes there although his speed bails him out of a lot of the time. Where he gets into a lot of trouble defensively is when the opposing team is super aggressive while forechecking. His lack of size and strength are exposed in these instances.
      • Comparison: Closest comparison Nate Schmidt

  • November 7th, 2018 — News and Notes

    Today is Wednesday, November 7th, and these are your news and notes…

    There were nine league contests last night.

     

    The Maple Leafs won their 10th game of the season out of 15 games for the 11th time in franchise history and the first since the 2013-14 season when they won 10 games out of the first 14.

     

     

    Rangers G Henrik Lundqvist won his 436th career game and is now one win shy of tying Jacques Plante for seventh place all time.

     

     

    Max Domi would score all three of Montreal’s goals in the contest to give him a goal-scoring streak of four contests and has 16 points on the season, including nine goals thus far.

     

     

    TXHT and Last Word on Sports Armand Kilsvitch has his recap of the contest here.

     

     

    The Columbus Blue Jackets have defeated the Dallas Stars for the sixth consecutive time.

     

     

    Ottawa’s Mark Stone had a five-point game to lift Ottawa to the win over New Jersey. Stone is the fifth player in Senators’ history to have multiple five point games in the regular season.

     

     

    Vancouver’s Elias Pettersson would score yet again and continues to lead all rookies in goals and points but would still fall to the Detroit Red Wings in a shootout.

     

    Pettersson has scored 10 goals in 10 games played. He is the fifth player outside of the League’s first season to score 10+ goals through their first 10 NHL games.

     

     

    In Tampa Bay’s Hockey Fights Cancer Awareness night, Tampa Bay would get the win in the contest over the Edmonton Oilers and move to a record of 11-3-1 and into first place in the NHL standings.

     

     

    St. Louis F Ryan O’Reilly registered a hat-trick and would extend his point streak to eight games in the contest against the Hurricanes. O’Reilly also had an eight-game point streak during the 2015-16 season.

     

     

    In this match-up, Ilya Kovalchuk had one goal and two assists in the first game for new Kings head coach, Willie Desjardins.

     

     

     

    San Jose’s Joe Thornton played in his 1499th NHL contest last night and tied Mike Modano for 19th all time.

     

     

    With his next game, Thornton will become the first overall pick in the history of the NHL Draft to reach the 1500 game milestone.

     

    As a note from the contests yesterday, this would only be the fifth time in League history where the home teams swept a schedule of 9+ games.

     

     

    Today’s slate of games…

     

    nov_7th_schedy-07021021

     

    For other news, notes, and stats…

     

     

    Today in NHL News…

     

    -Edmonton Oilers Milan Lucic will have a hearing today for roughing Tampa Bay’s Mathieu Joseph in last night’s contest.

     

     

    The NHL’s Department of Player Safety in accordance to the hearing announced that Lucic has been fined $10,000, the maximum allowed under the CBA, for roughing Mathieu Joseph.

     

     

    -Sportsnet and Hockey Night in Canada’s Elliotte Friedman released his “31 Thoughts” article yesterday. The topic revolves around the Ottawa Senators Uber video and the fallout.

     

     

    -The Los Angeles Kings announced that Adam Oates has joined the team in a consulting role.

     

     

     

    You can watch TXHT Live next Tuesday at 8p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.