People can tie themselves into whatever pretzel they want to argue that Tampa or Florida will catch the Leafs, but neither team will. When people have to try so hard to find the exception, it means the rule is pretty solid.
There are still six games left and two of them are in B2B against these same Florida teams, Leafs are far from having nailed this door shut. I'm not particularly superstitious but I've lived long enough to see far crazier outcomes in sports. Leafs just need to take care of each game, one at a time, gets points in every game.
What I am apt to do though, is view a team holistically both in terms of substance and style/personalities. They matter in a teams makeup. I will try to assess it here.
The biggest difference with this team is that Brad worked his magic to pick up some players that weren't on anyones radar and he built from the back out. The correct way based on historic precedence. I don't know if it will be enough based on the failings of this core, however, there is an obvious difference in their commitment level at times. Consistency is key. They play with the intensity and "the right way" every game and they are as big a threat as any team. It's all about will and sacrifice.
Stolarz probably being the biggest surprise of all. He and Woll are close, which is good. They are a true tandem, a Jennings Award type tandem. My guess is that they would both be here together for a few years if they happened to win a Cup this season.
Then there was Tanev who some were disappointed in when he was picked up. I reserved judgement as I don't watch many Calgary games. He to me has been the MVP this year for this team. The guy is just so steady and reliable. He and McCabe are lights out against other teams top forwards. That is an assignment that they embrace. A pair that has a lunch bucket mentality.
The entire defense has their identity. None of the D Men are particularly outgoing, they are low key, "get it done" types, which is what you want as a core. Carlo was a great addition and it was the surprise gift from Brad that would be a difference maker. Another puck eater with size and who already dropped the gloves to let his team know "I'm part of the pack now too guys". Excellent pick up.
Then there is Berube who brings a different approach and who has tried to get the players out of their old habits and into playing a 200 foot game with a bigger focus on driving the net and standing up for one another. As a former enforcer he has credibility when he speaks about the importance of fighting together and for each other as a team. It's a real challenge to correct this teams old Crown Corporation mentality but he has them focused on the nuances in the process, not just personal stats of goals and assists.
Leafs have depth at all positions now. The personnel fully prepared for the playoffs. The issue will always remain "do they have the sacrifice in them"? Winning the division would be a big psychological boost no doubt as it would confirm
"yes, we will rise to the challenge in the big games" which all games will be from here on out.
I'm not going to gaslight myself, but I'm also not going to deny what I see and to acknowledge that I do genuinely see a different attitude in the team since the deadline. They are more bound as a team. More willing to get in the trenches with one another. That is huge in team sports.
