Former Player Reveals the True Issue With the Maple Leafs
While the first round curse was finally broken, there's no question Toronto Maple Leafs players, management, and fans were not satisfied with their performance. After besting a playoff rival in the Tampa Bay Lighting, Toronto made little noise in the second round against the Florida Panthers, losing in five games.
The finger has been pointed everywhere since. A former member of the Maple Leafs believes he knows what the issue is.
While discussing whether Toronto needed a coach and/or GM change, Carlo Colaiacovo said it doesn't really matter who's behind the bench or who's managing the team at this point in time.
"The Leafs don't have a coaching problem, a GM problem, they have a player problem." - Carlo Colaiacovo
Are Fans On Board?
While many in the comments agreed with Colaiacovo's assessment, there was a surprising number who felt coach Sheldon Keefe needed to go.
"As much as I agree, Keefe was clearly out coached."
"Need a different approach. Keefe should go."
"I disagree. Keefe still hadn't figured out his lines in May. You can't be juggling lines, forward and D in the playoffs."
"He is a major problem, he couldn't adjust in either series. Didn't know how to adjust to the forecheck of both teams, kept playing Holl like he was a hall of fame D man when he was in the lineup, they kept trying long breakout passes that opposing D shut down. Kept changing lines every game. This team needs a new coach"
There has been no indication from Dubas that he would change coaches he if remains GM. Dubas and Keefe have a long relationship, and I'd be stunned if Dubas fired him. That said, change is definitely needed. You can't do the same thing over and over and expect a different result.
POLL |
MAI 16 | 264 ANSWERS Former Player Reveals the True Issue With the Maple Leafs What is the issue for the Toronto Maple Leafs? |
Players | 85 | 32.2 % |
Coach | 74 | 28 % |
GM | 6 | 2.3 % |
All of the above | 99 | 37.5 % |
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Previously on HockeyPatrol