Former Maple Leafs Player Reveals Toronto's Main Problem Going Into Playoffs

PUBLICATION

Julien Trekker
March 30, 2023 (6:36 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

Facebook Twitter (X) Instagram
Thread Google news

However, in a surprising move, the Panthers announced that Alex Lyon would be starting, with Sergei Bobrovsky not even being available for the match.

The decision by Head Coach Paul Maurice proved to be a smart one, as Lyon delivered an exceptional performance, effectively securing the win for Florida.

During TSN1050's "First Up" this morning, Carlo Colaiacovo discussed a particular issue that has often been attributed to the Leafs, expressing his concerns.

"Should we be more worried about this Leafs team being outplayed by AHL goalies and backup goalies?" Colaiacovo questioned.

"Take Carolina, for example, with Pyotr Kochetkov, who has mostly played in the AHL this year... 44 shots, only 3 goals and a loss. Kevin Lankinen... 34 shots, just 3 goals. And last night, Alex Lyon, an American League goalie who faced 43 shots and allowed only 2 goals," Colaiacovo said, referring to several recent games in which the Leafs faced second and third-string goalies.

"The only reason this might be an alarming trend... if you struggle to score against these goalies, given the number of shots you take, and you're getting ready to face Andrei Vasilevskiy, you know what this suggests to me? This Leafs team isn't doing enough to score those grittier goals."

While Colaiacovo's concern may be somewhat justified, it is worth noting that the Leafs were also criticized last season for not scoring enough "gritty" goals before the playoffs. Despite this, they managed to record Vasilevskiy's worst series save percentage (.887) in Tampa's back-to-back runs to the Cup final.

As per Dobber Sports, the Leafs currently rank seventh in HDSF/60, HDGF/60, and HDGF% per 60 at 5v5, slightly ahead of their first-round opponent, Tampa Bay, and a bit behind the Bruins. Thus, claiming that the Leafs don't score enough "gritty" goals seems to be somewhat lacking in thorough research.

Previously on HockeyPatrol

Paul Bissonnette Recalls a Humorous Sidney Crosby and Jack Johnson Story

Tom Brady Reportedly Dating Popular Actress

New NHLPA President Opens Up About Pride Night Controversy

POLL
30 MARS \| 680 ANSWERS Former Maple Leafs Player Reveals Toronto's Main Problem Going Into Playoffs Do you think the Leafs will win a playoff round this year?
Yes	458	67.4 %
No	222	32.6 %
LIST OF POLLS