After 5 games, the Leafs have amassed an impressive 9 of possible 10 points, not having lost in regulation yet. While most people still say it's early, and it is, I'll take 9/10 points anytime. When the regular season gets down to the wire and teams are vying for 2-6 points to squeeze in the top 8 of each Conference, hey, these trivial points will matter a whole lot.
Pros: Kessel is on fire. He has support from Lupul and Phaneuf is playing great. Gardiner is also looking like a solid young talent. MacArthur is turning out to be a reliable forward - not too much pizzazz, but makes smart plays.
Cons: Other than the top 1-2 lines, the rest of the lineup hasn't shown itself to be major contributors to the Leafs' success. If they don't step up, an injury here and there could de-rail the Leafs' success. Kessel is also a streaky player, so should he start running cold, we're in for some "boo choirs". Last year Kessel had a similar strong start in his first five games, only to go cold scoring 3 goals in his next 20 games. Schenn and Komisarek have also not performed with much poise yet. Colby Armstrong is out indefinitely with an ankle sprain...if it's not too bad, hopefully it'll be a couple weeks before he's back. In his place Nazem Kadri has been recalled up and hopefully he can be a solid 3rd-4th liner.
Iffy's: Connolly is still injured and when he returns, team and line chemistry will have to be re-evaluated. The Leafs play their first road game in their 6th game of the season, against the defending Stanley Cup champions, although Boston seems to be getting off to a rough start. In any case, the Leafs' record on the road will also help to determine if they should make the playoffs this year and their road record is unknown right now.
I predict that the Leafs will end up 6th or 7th in the East at the end of the regular season...but maybe that's just me hoping...and praying...
GO LEAFS GO!!
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