Ending this Blog........

NO that does not mean I am quitting blogging but I am changing the name, it will be leafsgameblog.blogspot.com

You can continue reading my stuff there.

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Leafs Interested In Horton, scouting Western teams?

The Toronto Maple Leafs appear to be combing through the NHL for a trade partner or two, as GM Brian Burke looks for ways to bolster his roster.
It's been widely reported that the Leafs would like to move forward Jason Blake and goalie Vesa Toskala at some point this season, while various rumors have also linked Alexei Ponikarovsky and Jeff Finger to the trade block.

The Leafs have been scouting a number of Western Conference teams over the last few weeks.

Burke is believed to be looking for a gritty top-six forward to play alongside Phil Kessel.

According to one published report, the Leafs are also interested in Florida Panthers forward Nathan Horton.

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Courtesy TFP

Red Wings VS Maple Leafs (1-5)

In his 1st back to back start of the season Jonas Gustavsson will look to win his 3rd game of the season. Something Toskala has not been able to say all season long. Kessel who looked exhausted last night will look to put his first goal in the G stat. The Leafs need to come out and play a strong game in the 1st 10 minutes and score that elusive 1st goal. The will also be looking for there 1st home win tonight they are 0-4-2 at home.

1st Period: Holy Cow! The Leafs scored the 1st goal of the game and low and behold its by someone who you would think would never score a goal like that Wayne Primeau. The Leafs played a solid first and were really hungry on the puck they deserve to be up two.

Toronto Goals:
#18 Wayne Primeau
#81 Phil Kessel

Toronto Penalties:
No Penalties

Detroit Goals:
No Scoring

Detroit Penalties:
#44 Todd Bertuzzi

2nd Period: The Leafs look so good in this game, don't get me wrong though they did have some relapses which I thought could have cost them but Gustavsson has been there to bail them out. Jeff Finger is having the type of game that should allow him to earn his 3.5 million contract. Lets hope for a strong 3rd period.

Toronto Goals:
#4 Jeff Finger

Toronto Penalties:
#23 Alexei Ponikarovsky
#55 Jason Blake (Too Many Men)
#84 Mikhail Grabovski

Detroit Goals:
No Scoring

Detroit Penalties:
#33 Kris Draper

3rd Period: Leaf fans I think we can finally say we have solidiied out goaltending. Not since Curtis Joseph have we had such great goaltending. We did unfortunatley lose Mike Komisarek to some sourght of lower body injury, but lets hope its nothing serious and that he will be able to go on Tuesday against the Wild.

Toronto Goals:
#39 John Mitchell
#23 Alexei Ponikarovsky

Toronto Penalties:
#2 Luke Schenn
#39 John Mitchell

Detroit Goals:
#11 Dan Cleary

Detroit Penalties:
Too Many men (I don't know who served this for the Wings)
#22 Brett Lebda

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Maple Leafs VS Hurricanes (3-2)

Game 2 for Phil Kessel as a Toronto Maple Leafs, and Jonas Gustavsson will get his 6th start of the season. I think it is safe to say that he has beat out Toskala for the #1 job in Toronto.

1st Period: Gustavsson does not look good tonight, he looks very uncomfortable out there something we have not seem from him in a game this year. 2 bad penalties and some sloppy play have lead to the Leafs being behind 2-0. I hope Wilson is letting into them because they need to hear it.

Toronto Goals:
No Scoring

Toronto Penalties:
#14 Matt Stajan
#2 Luke Schenn

Carolina Goals:
#16 Brandon Sutter
#14 Sergei Samsonov

Carolina Penalties:
No Penalties

2nd Period: Much better period by the Leafs in that one, Gustavsson played a lot better as well. Kessel looks dog tired which was quite evident at the end of the period after he gave the puck away. The Leafs definitley have to be more physical on the cycle plays, there getting killed in behind the net.

Toronto Goals:
#39 John Mitchell
#41 Nikolai Kulemin

Toronto Penalties
No Penalties

Carolina Goals:
No Scoring

Carolina Penalties:
#41 Andrew Alberts

3rd Period: Ladies and Gentleman there it is! We finally have our 2nd win of the season, now can we carry that momentum into tomorrow nights game against the Red Wings? We will see. Blake finally had himself a solid game and a after a shaky 1st Gustavsson played excellently.

Toronto Goals:
#55 Jason Blake

Toronto Penalties:
No Penalties

Carolina Goals:
No Scoring

Carolina Penalties:
#17 Rod Brindamour

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Lightning VS Leafs (2-1)

AND HERE WE GO! Tonight is the night Leaf fans have been waiting for all month the debut of Phil Kessel, not only will they get to see that but also the exceptional play of Jonas Gustavsson who will make the start tonight. Should be a good game.

1st Period: AHHHHHH!!! Man was that close I think my heart leaped out of my chest after the hit to Kessel and I thought he had a concussion for sure. Gustavsson looks really solid as well. I think Kessel is maybe trying to hard to do more than he should on his 1st night out with the Leafs.

Toronto Goals: No Scoring

Tampa Goals: No Scoring

2nd Period: That's a shame the Leafs truly have been the better team in this game and they should be up but Nittymaki is having himself some kind of night. Kessel is buzzing all around and can't seem to buy one tonight. Bad luck rebound on Lecavalier's goal, just kind of went off Gustavsson and right to Vinny. The Leafs have had plenty of PP and they need to start burning the Lightning!

Toronto Goals: No Scoring

Tampa Goals: #4 Vincent Lecavalier

3rd Period: Great 3rd for the Leafs, they played strong and really came out hard. Kessel had so many oppurtunities to score but couldn't bury one by Nittymaki. I'm sure with time he will get stronger.

Toronto Goals: #7 Ian White

Tampa Goals: No Scoring

Overtime: 4th straight OT 4th straight loss in OT, were getting points but we need some wins and 2 pts. It seems every game the Leafs have played lately they run into a HOT goalie! That goal was very shifty to say the least the net was off and Malone ran Gustavsson. When it comes to calls the Leafs just don't seem to be getting them. But it also doesn't help that this team had 8 PP's and couldn't pot a goal.

Tampa Goal: #12 Ryan Malone

The Source

Leafs VS Stars (3-4)

The Leafs will look to continue there winning ways tonight against the Dallas Stars, starting in net tonight will be Jonas Gustavsson who will also look for his 2nd win. Should be a great game.

1st Period: Wow! The Leafs make it out of the 1st period without letting in a goal, Gustavsson looks good again which is very promising for the Leafs. The Leafs also managed to not allow a shot on goal for the final 14 minutes of the game. The Leafs are obviously building on something.

Toronto Goals: No Scoring

Dallas Goals: No Scoring

2nd Period: I have to ask why it took Toronto so long to start gelling with eachother? They have looked so good in the last 3 games, and everyone I talk to believes they deserved a better fate against the Canucks. Toronto was so BAD! in its first 8 games and now they look like a team that should be on top of standings. Anyways lets hope the effort is there for the 3rd.

Toronto Goals: #41 Nikolai Kulemin

Dallas Goals: #91 Brad Richards

3rd Period: Dissapointing 3rd that's all I have to say!

Toronto Goals: #12 Lee Stempniak
#41 Nikolai Kulemin

Dallas Goals: #91 Brad Richards
#63 Mike Rebeiro

Overtime: Can you blame Gustavsson for being upset? That was a terrible effort by the Leafs and especially Kulemin......Neal was his man and he wasn't doing his job.

Dallas Goal: #18 James Neal


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LeafsVS Ducks (6-3)

Will the Leafs finally get out of there slump tonight? Will Jonas Gustavsson give a game stealing performance? If The Leafs lose again will there finally be a bit of player movement? Lots of questions surrounding the Leafs and from what I am hearing the latter question may be answered as soon as tomorrow.

1st Period:OH MY GOD!! The Leafs are finally taking a lead into a new period........My question is where have these leafs been this season? Awesome goaltending, and great special teams have contributed to a solid effort by the Leafs so far.

Toronto Goals: #84 Mikhail Grabovski
#9 Niklas Hagman

Anaheim Goals: #17 Petteri Nokelainen

2nd Period: Besides one sloppy penalty by Orr this was also a solid period for the Leafs, Gustavsson has made 2 "HUGE" saves in this game and continues to look very strong. Hagman, and Stempniak are the Leafs best players after Gustavsson and I really hope this is a sign of better things to come.

Toronto Goals: #9 Niklas Hagman

Anaheim Goals: #9 Bobby Ryan

3rd Period: Hagman was brilliant, and so was Kaberle, Stempniak, and Gustavsson.......The Leafs were finally the team Burke was hoping they would be in this one. Now off to Dallas lets hope we keep it going.

Toronto Goals: #12 Lee Stempniak
#15 Tomas Kaberle
#9 Niklas Hagman

Anaheim Goals: #10 Corey Perry

The Source

Apologies!!

I do apologize for my lack of blogging lately! I have been very busy some family issues, I will be blogging on the game against the Canuck's on Saturay.

Also I am still waiting for entries for the "Design The Leafs Crazy Rumors Website" where you can win a Leafs Jersey, as I said I will need you to send the admin password an username to me after you create it.

I am however going to be closing the contest in a week if I don't get any entries in the coming days.

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Colorado VS Toronto (4-1)

I hope everyone had a great thanksgiving its nice to be back for tonights game, the Leafs are coming off 5 straight TERRIBLE performances they will finally look for a win tonight against the Avs. There are 3 line up changes for tonights game including the healthy scratches of Matt Stajan and Niklas Hagman, replacing them will be Tyler Bozak and Viktor Stalberg. Joey MacDonald will get the start in net.

1st Period: Wow I don't know what to say anymore about this team, even when they outplay the other team they can't score. MacDonald was way to far back in his net on the 2nd goal, and every line but the Bozak line is playing terribly again. I really hope for some change if this continues and I don't mean by calling up rookies.

Toronto Goals: No Scoring

Colorado Goals: D Brett Clark
F David Jones

2nd Period: I have to think something will happen tomorrow if this team can't come back and win this game. You would have to think that Burkie is getting fed up with the terrible performance by Komisarek! Something has got to give I dodn't think I would ever see the Leafs this bad, I was wrong very wrong! Toronto needs a serious wake up call and that may come through trade or in sending down some underachieving veterans.

Toronto Scoring: D Francois Beauchamin

Colorado Scoring: F Darcy Tucker
D JM Liles

3rd Period: Will the real Toronto Maple LEafs please stand up......This was a terrible game. I thought Burke built us a winner? So far this team is 100% worse than last year and there doesn't seem to be any chance of that changing in the near future. Something needs to give here whether it be a trade or someone sent down there needs to be a serious shake up.

Toronto Goals: No Scoring

Colorado Goals: No Scoring

The Source

Senators VS Leafs (2-1)

With the Leafs having two very poor defensive showings in there last 2 games it will be nice to see if they can correct that in front of whoever starts in net on Tuesday (My bet is on Gustavsson) at home to the Senators. The Leafs offense has been great and if they hadn't of run into two very good goaltenders maybe that game would have been different (The Leafs outshot Montreal and Washington) Lets hope for our 1st win on the year.

1st Period: Really good 1st for the Leafs, they outshot the Sens 8-7. Gustavsson looked good and the Leafs seem to be having a better game in front of him. I would say its sad but truth be told its not, Toskala had his chance and he has done nothing to grab onto it. Lets hope for more of the same in the 2nd.

Toronto Goals: No Scoring

Ottawa Goals: No Scoring

2nd Period: I don't know what to say, I feel so bad for Gussy. He is giving it his all and is really keeping the Leafs in the game. They seem to have fallen off the NHL pace and are playing at an OHL level. I really hope Wilson digs into them.

Toronto Goals: No Scoring

Ottawa Goals: #10 Sean Donovan
#11 Daniel Alfredsson

3rd Period: The Leafs lost this game in the 2nd period that is obvious. I feel bad for Gussy like I said he played a phenomenal game tonight and is the only reason the Sens didn't get 12 goals tonight. The one plus for the Leafs on the offense was Matt Stajan who has played like a man possessed so far this season. I really hope the effort gets better or it looks like those picks could be top 10 for Boston.

Toronto Goals: #14 Matt Stajan

Ottawa Goals: No Scoring

The Source

Toronto VS Washington (4-6)

Tonight, the Leafs travel to Washington to face the great Alex Ovechkin and the Capitals in their home opener. Vesa Toskala will get the start, Jeff Finger will replace Garnet Exelby in the lineup on the 3rd defensive pairing and Jamal Mayers will be replace Jay Rosehill on the 4th line. Look for a more tight checking, defensive effort tonight. If that does not happen, No. 8 will light up the scoreboard numerous times.

1st Period: How did Toskala survive this period............. Seriously I can't believe Wilson is letting this go on. I truly hope the Leafs perform better than this in the 2nd period.

Toronto Goals:

Washington Goals:
Brooks Laich
Alex Ovechkin
Mike Knuble

2nd Period: WOW!!! That's all I have to say Gustavsson looks good, none of the goals he has let in are his fault......The D has been shaughty all night long. The offense is dry and I am hoping that this loss spells the end for Toskala. Hey here's to hoping for one of our miracle comebacks that were so frequent last season.

Toronto Goals: Lee Stempniak

Washington Goals: Alex Semin
Brendan Morrisson
Alex Semin

3rd Period: Really good 3rd for the Leafs, but why couldn't they play like that through the whole game is the question? They made it close and Jonas played really solid. I would expect him to get the start against the Senators on Tuesday. All in all I would say despite the HORRIBLE play from Toskala and some of our D this was a good effort from the Leafs as they once again ran into a hot goaltender.

Toronto Goals:Alex Ponikarovsky
Alex Ponikarovsky
Niklas Hagman

Washington Goals:

The Source

Canadiens VS Leafs (4-3)

Were back everyone thank God I really hope everyone had a great season, I truly feel this will be the year the Leafs get over that hump and make the playoffs. The team is better on the backend we have speedier wingers and a lot more physicality to work with this season. It truly will be an exciting season for all of us Leaf fans.

1st Period: Really good first by the Leafs, the Blake-Stajan-Stalberg line really dominated. It really was an unfortunate penalty that Komisarek took, and you would think the refs would have made up for it! So many missed calls there I almost had a stroke. Should be a good 2nd period.

Toronto Goals: Alexei Ponikarovsky

Montreal Goals: Brian Gionta

2nd Period:

Toronto Goals: Matt Stajan

Montreal Goals: Travis Moen

3rd Period:

Toronto Goals: Matt Stajan

Montreal Goals: Glen Metropolit

OT Period: Come on are you serious how do the Leafs lose the game with 46 shots?????? I have it on good authority that Gustavsson will get the start in Washington. This was a very bad result for a team that deserved a better fate.

Montreal Goal: Josh Gorges

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Leafs Name Opening Night Roster: Stalberg and Rosehill in Kulemin, Bozak, and Tlusty out.

It appears that Toronto Maple Leafs coach Ron Wilson is set on who will start in the regular season opener on Thursday.

As promised, the door was open for some of the younger players to go out and steal jobs, which is exactly what Viktor Stalberg has done this preseason. After leading the team with six preseason goals, the rookie will lineup Thursday on the top unit with Matt Stajan and Jason Blake

"I obviously took someone's spot. They'll want to take that back soon so it's going to be a battle all season," Stralberg said. "If I want to stay up here I'm going to keep working the way I have been the last couple of weeks."

The odd men out at this point are Nicolai Kulimen and Jiri Tlusty. Both came into camp with jobs to lose and, at least for now, have lost them.

"They haven't earned a spot," Wilson said of the pair. "Other people have played ahead of them. We've got plenty of veterans up front. You look at what Stalberg has done is knock Kulimen off one of the top two lines."

Another guy who fell just short of making the team is Tyler Bozak. While he did open a lot of eyes during camp, there's simply not enough room for him to begin the season with the big club, leaving Wilson with few options

"He'll probably have to go down because of numbers. Based on the way played in training camp he's certainly worthy of playing in the NHL but we may not have room at the beginning."

Bozak had to know the writing was on the wall when practice began and he saw he wasn't skating on any of the top four lines, but the 23-year-old took the news in stride.

"You'd love to be playing Thursday night and you'd love to be on one of those lines," Bozak explained. "But like they've said anytime you can get called back up and be in the lineup so just take it day by day and hopefully get in as soon as possible."

Bozak, along with the rest of players who won't suit up Thursday, had better keep ready because the coach won't hesitate to shake thngs up if the guys on the big club don't perform out of the gate.

NOTES: Mike Komisarek (hamstring) didn't skate Tuesday but does expect to play Thursday ... Jeff Finger (oblique) and Jamal Mayers (suspected concussion) both practiced bit neither is expected in Thursdays lineup ... Joey Macdonald has been placed on waivers

Here's how the Leafs lineup should look Thursday night:

Forwards:

Blake-Stajan-Stalberg

Grabovski-Hagman-Ponikarovski

Rosehill-Primeau-Orr

Wallin-Stepniak-Mitchell

Defence:

Beauchimen-Schenn

Kaberle-Komisarek

White -Exelby

In net:

Toskala

Gustavsson

The Source

Courtesy Rogers Sportsnet

Gustavsson Will Get A Period

Jonas Gustavsson will not have to wait long tonight to make his NHL debut.

Before departing for Detroit Friday afternoon, Maple Leafs coach Ron Wilson said the young goaltender will be his starter against the Red Wings at Joe Louis Arena.

“There is no point having him sit on the bench, have him get cold, then put him out there (later in the game),” Wilson said. “The plan is for one period. If he doesn’t face a lot of shots, maybe will leave him in for 30 minutes.”

Wilson, like many Leaf fans, is anxious to see Gustavsson play in a game situation, although he is not putting too much pressure on the young goalie.

“It’s not like if he struggles tonight, we’re going to ship him back to Sweden,” Wilson said.

The Source

Courtesy Canoe.Ca

DONE DEAL!!! Kessel to Leafs all but done?

According to sources and TSN the Maple Leafs and Bruins have agreed to a deal that would send Kessel to the Leafs........................PENDING Kessel signs a contract with Buds (Come on who thinks he won't?)

I will have more later on the return I have also been told the Leafs are getting another F from the B's stay tuned.

UPDATE: Done deal folks steep price but IMO well worth it for a 21 year old premier center

The Source

Leafs and Bruins Close

According to Darren Dreger the Leafs are close to acquiring 21 year old F Phil Kessel from the Boston Bruins, I did some checking with my sources and they have all confirmed to me that if the Leafs are to make a deal it would be for a "HIGH" 2010 pick and a forward...........Don't ask I don't have any names for you.

I will keep everyone posted.

The Source

Leafs Poised to Make a Move?

With last nights re-acquisition of Toronto's 2nd round pick in 2010, the Leafs seemed poised to make a run at an RFA of there choice. The real question is who is it.........

There are 3 that would be on my list if I were Burke

1.)Brandon Dubinsky
2.)Drew Stafford
3.)Phil Kessel

The Leafs have cap space to offer anyone of these players a long term deal the question is would and of the 3 teams that own the rights match with the 10/11 season looking so blank in terms of the economy.

I have it from a VERY reliable source that the Leafs are targeting Kessel, my question to you is, is he the smartest choice?

The Source

Leafs Invite Jason Alisson to training camp

The Toronto Maple Leafs have announced that they have invited former 1 time Leaf Jason Alisson to attend training camp for a tryout.

This had been discussed about 2 weeks ago and Burke had agreed to it but do to some divorce issues Alisson was having it was not announced until today.

I will keep an eye on him for everyone.

The Source

Burke Looking For A Trade?

I do appologize for the lack of updates latley but simply put there is nothing going on right now this close to training camp.

But I do have one significant piece of info that I got the other day from a reader, he said that Brian Burke was on theFan590 (Which is true I checked) and said the Leafs have a trade in place for a top 6 forward and they are mulling it over at this time, now I have heard the Marleau rumors but put nothing to them.

I asked a few sources what they thought and they alll said the same thing "Look West" could that mean a deal is imminent for the services of Patrick Marleau I don't know and I certainley wouldn't get to excited either as there have been Marleau rumors going back to last year, as we all know none of them panned out.

I will dig around some more and see what I can do for you guys, I truly feel something is up with Burke.

The Source

Leafs Trade Pogge, Sign McDonald?

This is from a source and from TSN

The Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to announce the trading of G Justin Pogge to the Anaheim Ducks for a conditional late round pick (If Pogge has a good season the pick improves), they will also announce the signing of G Joey McDonald who played last season for the NY Islanders.

The Source

Leafs and Blue Jackets Update

So just reiterate the Leafs and the jackets have been talking the last few days and I have some more info for you.

I have been told that any deal that will happen will happen in the next 48 hours or so, I have confirmed that it is a D man from Toronto and a forward going to CBJ for a roster forward and a prospect as well as a pick.

Could this mean Kaberle who knows but I will keep everyone up to date as always.

The Source

Breaking Rumor: Leafs and Blue Jackets Talking?

This came to me by email late tonight, apparently the Leafs and Blue Jackets are talking a trade that would send one of our D men to CBJ for a forward, now as we all know the Jackets have been seeking a puck moving Dman and we know Kaberle is available at the right price. Apparently this could be a multi-player swap not just 1 for 1.

I wish I had names for you but I simply don't, but as soon as I do I will post them here.

The Source

Leafs Aquire Primeau From Flames

To Toronto: F Wayne Primeau, 2nd round pick in 2011

To Calgary: D Anton Stralman, F Colin Stuart and a 7th round pick in 2012

Not sure of this trade all I can guess from talking to few sources Burke has something big up his sleeve. I have heard an offer sheet to a trade with San Jose. I don't know but stay tuned for more everyone.

The Source

Kaberle staying put?

Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke yesterday suggested it was growing less likely he'll move veteran defenseman Tomas Kaberle. Burke was close to moving Kaberle during the June entry draft weekend to Boston for Phil Kessel but since that deal died he said he doesn't get the sense a trade of Kaberle will happen, adding he wouldn't be surprised if the defenseman were still in the Leafs lineup when the season starts in October. If Burke were to trade Kaberle without the defenseman's consent he'll have to do it before August 15th, when his "no-trade" clause goes back into effect. The Leafs GM did acknowledge that with ten blueliners under contract he could move one, and while it's believed he's shopping for offensive depth Burke said that's not necessarily the case, noting he could look to within the organization for offensive help.

Courtesy Sportsnet.ca

The Source

Leafs Signings

The Toronto Maple Leafs have announced the re-signing of F Darryl Boyce and F Alex Foster, once again no terms were released.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have come to terms on a 1 year 2 way deal with G Justin Pogge worth $605,000.

The Source

Leafs Re-Sign Deveaux

The Toronto Maple Leafs have announced the re-signing of RFA F Andre Deveaux to a 1 year deal as per team policy no details were released.

The Source

Rumors, Rumors

This is just a quick little thing so it won't be super long, I have confirmation that the Leafs are looking at signing F Travis Moen to a 2 year deal.

Once again I'de like to reiterate that this is just a rumor so I take no responsibility if it is wrong LOL! I don't quite understand this rumor especially because the Leafs just signed F Rickard Wallin who does essentially the same thing as Moen.

I was thinking this whole time that Burkie would make a move for a scorer.

Speaking of making moves Burke has received a significant offer for one of his Dmen (I believe its White or Van Ryn) but if he has why has the trigger not been pulled? I think you can only make people wait so long before they want to call you a $hit Head! If Burke has a significant offer on the table that could nab the Leafs a top 6 forward then he needs to make that deal.

Just my opinion

UPDATE: As I have said in the past this is why I don't usually like to post rumors that often despite the name of the blog LOL! Travis Moen has signed a 3 year deal with the Montreal Canadiens today. I had heard that as well as Toronto so it could have came down to the wire.

The Source

Leafs Sign Another Swede!

The Toronto Maple Leafs have announced the signing of C Rickard Wallin from the Swedish Elite League he is the team mate of newly signed G Jonas Gustavsson and was the Captain of Farjestad where he scored 18 goals and 27 assists.

I don't have any relative info on the kid he does have some experience in the NHL though he was drafted by Pheonix but never played a game for them. He did however play something like 19 games for Minnesota.

I'll have more later including a rumor that was just handed to me.

The Source

Leafs About To Make Trade?

With a strong defensive unit in place, Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke is now focused on bolstering his team up front, reports the Toronto Star.

Burke has been entertained offers for some of his places, including Tomas Kaberle. However, he's indicated that he'll require an out-of-this-world proposal if he's to move with his All-Star defenseman.

"We got our first serious trade offer - not for Kaberle, for a lesser defenceman," Burke told the Star.

"But that's the next thing, to see if we can parlay a defenceman into a forward."

It's uncertain if the Leafs are pursuing any unrestricted free agent forwards, as the likes of Alex Tanguay and Ales Kotalik are still available; though it appears Burke is scouring the trade market for a scorer.

"We're not done. We've still got cap room and you can go over the cap in the summer," Burke said.

The St. Louis Blues are among the teams interested in Kaberle, and the Star indicates the Los Angeles Kings and Columbus Blue Jackets are also after a puck-moving defenseman.

"There is interest (in Kaberle), but nothing that requires thinking about," Burke said. "If I had to handicap this, I'd say he will be a Leaf at the start of the year. That can change with one phone call, but I haven't been given any offers that approach what I would think it would take to make that deal."

Courtesy TFP

The Sources Take:

I don't know to me personally it seems like Burke is getting a little swell in that already large head of his, I think Kaberle could fetch a Pronger type deal but teams won't just give away there bonafide superstars just for Kaberle.

While Toronto had no trouble scoring last season (that was before they traded Antropov and Moore) I still think they need that big scorer as I've said before Tanguay is still available. Hopefully Burkie can make a move soon.

Leafs On The Verge Of More Moves?

Talking to a few sources tonight who have told me that the Leafs have indeed been offered a top 6 forward for unnamed defenseman.

With the log jam at the back end the Leafs need to move some bodies and address there forward lines, I have heard many a rumor as of late But I don't feel they commend a spot on my blog until I here something from some of my stronger sources.

I can tell you that the rumored team that made the offer is either Edmonton or LA.

More news later

The Source

Leafs Finally Sign Gustavsson!

The Toronto Maple Leafs have "FINALLY" signed young G Jonas Gustavsson to 1 year $810,000 deal, he will also get a $90,000 bonus if he manages to keep his performance above .900.

All in all this is a great step towards the future of the franchise.


The Source

Maple Leafs Sign D Beauchamin

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed UFA D Francois Beauchamin to deal worth $10,000,000. I have no length yet but that is the money.

UPDATE: Looks like 3 years so that's $3.3 million a year

I will have more later

The Source

Leafs After Another Swede?

The Toronto Maple Leafs are apparently more than interested in just one Swede from Farjestad they want two.

The Maple Leafs also have interest in rugged center Rickard Wallin who is the teams captain, I have no word on any signing yet but it could be close stay tuned. Wallin had 5 goals and 9 assists his last time around in the NHL. He was then property of the Minnesota Wild.

The Source

Breaking Rumor:Kaberle to San Jose for Marleau, or is he going to Vancouver?

Take this for what it is worth but a source of mine that covers the San Jose Sharks has said that the Leafs and Sharks have an offer together that would send Marleau and an unamed prospect to Toronto for Kaberle and unamed forward.

Another rumor circulating is that the Leafs have all but signed D Francois Beauchamin and that we could see Kaberle shipped to Vancouver for G Cory Schneider and a prospect that I have yet to find.

This is all contrary of course to what Asst GM Dave Nonis has said that the Leafs are done until some of the asking prices come down.

We shall see what happens.

The Source

Leafs Free Agent News

Free Agent Signings

1.) F Colton Orr- 4 years/ $4,000,000
2.)D Mike Komisarek - 5 years/ $22,500,000

RUMOR: According to a source the Toronto Maple Leafs have offered a contract to UFA F Alex Tanguay worth around 15 million over 4 to 5 years. I'm waiting to get confirmation on this but I don't expect to hear anything till at least 10 am tomorrow.

Trades

Toronto has traded D Pavel Kubina to Atlanta for D Garnet Exelby and a forward not yet named.
I now have the rest of the players in the deal. Atlanta gets the rights to Tim Stapleton. Toronto gets Colin Stewart.

This will be where you can find out who will be signing today come back regularly for your updates.

The Source

Leafs Qualify Pogge

Despite alot of people thinking otherwise the Toronto Maple Leafs have qualified your G Justin Pogge no terms or money was announced.

I assume this move is to make sure he doesn't walk for nothing, it could also mean the Leafs are out of the Jonas Gustavsson sweeps.

The young Swede is expected to make his mind up before noon on Wednesday when the UFA market opens up. I guess we will see what happens in the coming days.

The Source

Maple Leafs close to another trade???

Take this for what is worth but there is a rumor floating around that the Leafs are trying to acquire the rights to Brayden Schenn, I don't know who started this (I personaly don't believe this) but I thought I would post it here.

From A Source:

Toronto is looking to acquire F Ryan Clowe from the SJ Sharks but apparently Wilson is looking for a 1st round pick, IMO I don't know if Ryan is worth that kind of payment, if Kessel wasn't then Clowe will definitely not be.

Stay tuned.

The Source

Leafs draft C Nazem Kadri, No trades yet

So the Maple Leafs were not able to draft Tavares or Schenn but they got a very good player in C Nazem Kadri.

The Maple Leafs have been in discussion according to a source with Tampa Bay about a player swap I have no news on what it could be (Don't even think Lecavalier) I'll keep you posted.

The Source

Kaberle On His Way Out?

According to TSN and a Source the Toronto Maple Leafs have been given a significant offer for D Tomas Kaberle.

No word on what team placed the offer for the all star defenceman but it is believed the team was in on the Jay Bouwmeester sweeps.

I'll keep you posted

The Source

Leafs Crazy Rumors Website Contest

Hey everyone I'm getting kind of blah with this whole blogspot.com thing and I would really like to get a site up and running.

So here is my challenge to you folks, design a website and win a Leafs jersey.

Its has to be a .ca page and must be all Maple Leafs the winner will be announced as of Oct 10th the day I will launch the website.

Build the page and send the link to thesource1607@hotmail.com

The Source

UPDATE: Sorry everyone I just realized that my email was wrong so if you have started submitting your entries that's my actual email. My appologies

Maple Leafs Sign Gustavsson?

So I have been talking to Pierre McGuire and Steve Simmons this morning who have both told me the Leafs are expected to announce the signing of Jonas Gustavsson on or before the draft this weekend.

McGuire said that we are looking at a 3 year deal worth $950,000 a year +bonuses. But he wasn't a 100% because the Maple Leafs have a policy in which they don't state publicly what a player is making. He said if he had to put a time stamp on it Wed or Thursday are the days he would think are most likely to be announcement day.

Lets keep our fingers crossed

The Source

Leafs Want 2nd Overall Pick

According to a source of mine the Leafs may be close to acquiring the 2nd overall pick from the Tampa Bay Lightning.

He said players to watch for are Kaberle and a prospect plus Toronto's number 7 pick, apparently Toronto would also get a player from Tampa I have heard Andrei Mezaros but why would you want him lol!

Anyway I will keep everyone posted.

The Source

BREAKING NEWS: Leafs will not re-sign Pogge

Big news in Toronto today the Toronto Maple Leafs announced that they will not be retaining the services of 2 of there goalies one being Curtis Joseph and the other Justin Pogge.

I think this is a smart move down the road it seems that Pogge could never really get things going in the AHL or the NHL. I think Gerber would be a wise choice for at least a backup role in Toronto to puch Toskala I guess we will see what happens in the coming days when we should find out about Gustavsson.

The Source

Burke is all about the money!

The Toronto Sun is reporting that Brian Burke will not hesitate to spend to the league salary cap this year.

Most notably he said that he will have little interest in the Sedins but also said he refuses to talk about other teams players.

When the subject of Jay Bouwmeester came up however that was a different story.

In other news the reason Jonas Gustavsson has not signed is do to his mothers passing. There is word coming out that he could make his decision next week (<----- Yeah right heard that before)

The Source

Gustavsson in Toronto

This from the same source who told me about Bozak, he has said that the Leafs have all but signed UFA G Jonas Gustavsson to a deal I don't have terms of the deal but it could be announced Monday at the latest Tuesday.

I will keep everyone posted.

The Source

UPDATE: I know I said he would be signed last week but it did not come to fruition apparently he has decided to give it another week. He should be making his decision by this Friday and the Leafs are still the front runners at this point.

UPDATE: So I now finally have some more info for you guys apparently there are some family issues with Jonas right now(I believe his mother is sick) but according to Al Strachan he should be in Toronto this week and then Colorado next week. According to Strachan the Leafs are the team to beat right now and have him pretty much locked up but do to the fact Gustavssons agent has said that he will be doing tours of 4 cities it could still take a week to sign him.

The 4 teams that I am hearing are Toronto(The favorite at this point), Dallas, Colorado, and San Jose. <---------- This one makes no sense to me Nabby always plays 75 games and I really think SJ has no chance of signing him. Apparently Gustavsson met with Leaf legend Borje Salming and Mats Sundin and they both have told him about the great atmosphere that playing in Toronto brings. Thankfully for Leaf fans the other 3 teams don't have legends like us to sway this young kids mind.

The Source

Leafs looking at Camellari, the Sedins and Komisarek.

I have been extremely busy preparing for Junes entry draft, I'm very excited to say that many sources have been telling me that Tavares is Burkes #1 choice right now and he is willing to do anything to get him.

As for free agency Burke has a wish list that someone within the Leafs organization has sent me (Well 3 names that were on the list) and while yes 2 of them we already knew Komisarek is the surprise while he is definitley a Burke type player would he take the ride down the 401 and play for the Leafs?

Could you imagine a Komi/Schenn pairing I can just see the busted skulls from all the checks they would be laying.

Anyways this is all I have and I will definitley keep you posted on any mumblings leading up to draft day.

The Source

Burke passes on Gilroy

This actually according to a source went down to the wire with Burke and Gilroys representitives I am told.

Burke wasn't willing to give a 24 year old unproven defenceman a 2 year 3.5 million contract and in the end I don't blame him.

We could still see Gustavsson sign this weekend or early next week.

The Source

Burke making calls

Word on the street is Brian Burke has been hard at work trying to get the Islanders and or the Tampa Bay Lightning's 1st round pick in the hopes of selecting John Tavares.

I have spoke to several sources this week who have said that the deal could happen but if the Islanders or Lightning try and bring Luke Schenn into the mix the deal will be nixed.

The Source

Leafs close to Gilroy, could sign goalie from Copenhagen

I have spoken to sources this weekend the Leafs and the Canucks are the most likely teams to sign D Matt Gilroy. I was told it could announced as early as Monday but also as late as Friday.

In other news I have just gotten word Brian Burke skipped last nights game to be in Copenhagen to meet with an agent and his client some goalie that I only know as the Monster. If I get a name I will surely put it here. Ok follow up email his name Jonas Gustavsson.

The Source

Leafs Sign Young F Tyler Bozak

As 1st reported by me a few days ago the Toronto Maple Leafs have agreed to terms with 23 year old F Tyler Bozak of the NCAA.

I was told the terms are the same (Year wise) as Christian Hanson. That's all I know and I'm sure there will be more announced shortly

The Source

Leafs win Nailbiter against Flyers 3-2. Sign Christian Hanson

Leafs played a great game. Won 3-2
Not really much to say about this game as it has no meaning.

In other news Leafs sign young forward Christian Hanson, who's father was famous for playing in the Slapshot movies. He's a young physical 2way player, who also bring a nice scoring touch for next season.

Also I have it on good authority that the Leafs have all but signed young forward Tyler Bozak, it's not quite yet done but should be announced by tomorrow morning, or early afternoon.

The Source

Leafs eliminated and I'm done for the season.

1st off I would like to thank all 50,000 people that made my blog what it is. Its nice to see some people still like to read the truth instead of made up stuff.

I would also like to say thanks to the Toronto Maple Leafs who helped make this blog possible!

Now on to more important matters, the Leafs have officially been eliminated from playoff contention and with that we look forward to next season which I'm sure will have a different outcome from the last 4 years.

I would look for some significant movement this offseason as Brian Burke has some holes to fill up front and on the backend.

I will be back for the draft and I hope to have an actual website going (If you would like to help me design it send me an email at thesource1607@hotmail.com)

Once again I would like to thank everyone for there support and I hope you'll be back next season. I'll see you at the draft everyone, oh before I go I will be keeping the poll going so you can still vote on your favorite Leaf subjects and I will keep the standing bar going as well.

The Source

Gerber Gets 3

What a joke of a call by the NHL! Gerber had every right to be pissed about the call, he was blatantly shoved into the net by Brooks Laich and Leggo blew the call.

Anyways nothing we can do now he has been suspended by the NHL for 3 games and in his place the Leafs have re-called Justin Pogge.

The Source

Capitals VS Maple Leafs (2-3)

1st Period: The Leafs are 9-4-1 in 14 games and are 8 pts out of a playoff spot while its still unlikely they make the playoffs don't tell them that. In this game alone there defensive effort and goaltending has been better than any effort all season long. Despite Luke Schenns tiny give away in the period he was dominant over Ovechkin for most of the period. The Grabovski line looks dangerous again and will definitley be one of the lines to watch to break the current stalemate.

Goals: NO GOALS

2nd Period: Phil Oreskovic has become the 6th Leaf this year to score his 1st NHL goals good for him and congrats. Now on to Ovechkin as fun as he is sometimes his antics like Sean Averys are getting tiresome claiming he will score 4 goals against the Leafs tonight and then actually raising his finger to show he has scored 1 is really showing what kind of ass a nine player he can sometimes be. Anyways enough of that despite the penalty the Leafs had another very sound defensive period, should be an exciting 3rd.

Goals:
Toronto: #40 Phil Oreskovic

Washington: #8 Alexander Ovechkin

3rd Period: This was 2 sides of hell! Gerber was great and had every right to be pissed about the goal. He was cleary pushed into the net by Brooks Laich and the referee knew that. I seriously hope the NHL investigates that call. Besides that Curtis Joseph comes in and stands on his head, and really saved the game.

Goals:
Toronto: #84 Mikhail Grabovski

Washington: #21 Brooks Laich

OT Period: This was the Curtis Joseph he was amazing and truly brought back some good memorys for Leaf fans. If the Leafs have any hope of still making the playoffs I think Wilson needs to give some serious thought to starting Joseph for a lot of the remaining games.

Goals: NO GOALS

Shootout Goals:
Toronto: #51 Jeff Hamilton

The Source

Maple Leafs VS Canadiens (5-2)

1st Period: This was a terrific start for the Leafs tonight. Something they didn't have against the Panthers the other night. Gerber looks good again and it was great to see Grabovski score a goal against the Canadiens. Also it looks like Kulemin kept his word by scoring a goal for his new born child.

Goals:
Toronto: #84 Mikhail Grabovski
Toronto: #41 Nikolai Kulemin

2nd Period: Very good second for the Buds until closer till the end when they took some stupid penalties. I hope there is a better defensive effort in the 3rd.

Goals:
Toronto: #23 Alexei Ponikarovsky
Toronto: #23 Alexei Ponikarovsky (2)

Montreal: #40 Maxim Lapierre
Montreal: #40 Maxim Lapierre

3rd Period: Terrific game tonight the Leafs dominated all over the ice, and really deserved the win. The Leafs are now 6 pts out of a playoff spot.

Goals:

Toronto: #55 Jason Blake

The Source

Maple Leafs VS Panthers (1-4)

1st Period: I seriously hope the league takes a look at the baseball swing slash that Richard Zednik delivered to Jason Blake. The Leafs looked very blah for most of the period and really didn't deserve to tie the game. I hope there is a big turn around in the 2nd in there forward pressure on the puck and there in zone coverage. They don't seem to be spending a lot of time in the Florida zone.

Goals:
Toronto: #84 Mikhail Grabovski

Florida: #9 Stephen Weiss

2nd Period: OH MY GOD!! This game went from bad to worse, the Leafs are being dominated every where on the ice. They are simply not moving there feet and are guilty of so many give aways. I simply have not seen a worse game this season from the blue and white. Gerber looks terrible and the defense shoddy at best. Wilson is tearing them a new hole I hope.

Goals:
Florida: #20 Richard Zednik
Florida: #18 Ville Peltonen

3rd Period: At least the Leafs are losing and putting themselves in a better position for a good pick. This was the worst effort all year and if it wasn't for Gerber I'm sure it would have been much worse. The team was sloppy everywhere lastnight and as I said in the 1st period they didn't deserve to even get one goal.

The Source

Maple Leafs VS Lightning (4-3)

Unfortunately I won't be able to blog this game tonight. I am in Edmonton doing a story for The Sun.

However I will keep you guys up to date on the score.

The Source

Flames VS Maple Leafs (6-8)

1st Period: Is it me or do the Leafs love to dig there own graves? Matt Stajan and Luke Schenn both took useless penalties allowing the Flames back into the game. It was 3-0 and the Leafs could have ran away with this one if not for the screw ups. I can guarantee Wilson is going up oneside of them and down the other.

Goals:
Toronto: #4 Jeff Finger
Toronto: #55 Jason Blake
Toronto: #84 Mikhail Grabovski

Calgary: #21Olli Jokinen
Calgary: #3 Dion Phanuef
Calgary: #20 Curtis Glencross

2nd Period: This game couldn't be anymore painful to watch the Leafs just keep taking bad penalties this time it was a holding call right in front of the referee. Man I can not believe that Jokinen got that goal it was absolutley a shocker. Despite the Leafs lead they don't look good at all.

Goals:
Toronto: #51 Jeff Hamilton
Toronto: #39 John Mitchell

Calgary: #21 Olli Jokinen

3rd Period: Well that was a lot better than the 2nd and 1st periods, the Leafs were a lot more solid defensivley in the 3rd and really took it to the Flames. Good effort to solidify the win.

Goals:
Toronto: #41 Nikolai Kulemin
Toronto: #21 Jamal Mayers
Toronto: #84 Mikhail Grabovski

Calgary: #12 Jarome Iginla
Calgary: #21 Olli Jokinen

The Source

Islanders VS Maple Leafs (2-3)

1st Period: What the heck just happened there? Lee Stempniak works his butt off for the first goal and then everything went downhill from there. Mind you the Leafs were all ready pretty flat to begin with. Gerber looks good but he can only do so much the Leafs need to tighten up defensively and do a better job on the breakout.

GOALS: Toronto- #12 Lee Stempniak

NY - #21 Kyle Okposo

NY - #33 Iggulden (<---Sorry I'm not sure of his # or the correct spelling of his name)

2nd Period: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 that's right 5 of penalties in the 2nd period 2 of which gave the Islanders a 2 man advantage. They look sloppy and tired and Gerber is keeping them in this game. Despite what the shots say the Leafs really don't deserve to be in this game.

GOALS: Really good period for the Leafs, Gerber has been solid in the 4 starts that he has had since coming from Ottawa to Toronto. Should be a very good OTR

3rd Period: Really good period for the Leafs, Gerber has been solid in the 4 starts that he has had since coming from Ottawa to Toronto. Should be a very good OT.

GOALS: Toronto - #23 Alexei Ponikarovsky

OT Period: Wow I didn't even get to finish my 3rd period thoughts when Grabovski scored the winner.

GOALS: Toronto - #84 Mikhail Grabovksi

The Source

Gerber shines in Leafs debut

What a terrific game for Gerber tonight he was terrific making 37 saves for his 1st win a Leaf uni. Jeff Hamilton was also a plus player as he had an assist and looked really good playing along side Grabovski and Stajan.

The Leafs were really solid defensivley as well tonight something that has been showing the last couple games.

Gerber will get the start again on Saturday against the visiting Oilers.

The Source

Leafs sign Hamilton

Despite being busy yesterday it didn't seem to end there as Brian Burke has announced the signing of 31 year old F Jeff Hamilton he was playing with AHL Chicago Wolves he has 16 goals and 37 assists this season. 

He will be in the line up tonight.

The Source

Trade Rumors

I've been on the phone all morning trying to get leads for you, I have a huge rumor that the Leafs will be sending Nik Antropov to Pittsburgh for a prospect and 2 picks.

I have nothing on Dominic Moore yet although I do believe Edmonton has serious interest.

UPDATE: Toronto Maple Leafs have claimed G Martin Gerber of re-entry waivers as well D Eric Reitz.


UPDATE: Vesa Toskala has been placed on IR and will be done for the rest of the season.


UPDATE: Antropov to Nashville is very close I'm hearing a pick and a player. Nix that..Antropov is a Ranger, for a second round pick and a conditional pick. (expecting more)

UPDATE: Dominic Moore has been traded in a three way deal, waiting for details. UPDATE on this trade Moore has been traded to the Sabres for an 2nd rounder.

UPDATE: Yes its late I'm sorry, but in a final move for the Maple Leafs they have acquired soon to be retired Olaf Kolzig, D Jamie Heward, and prospect Andy Rogers and a 4th round pick.

The Source's take: All in all a solid day for the Buds Burke did what he said and stock piled some 2nd rounders, a conditional pick and a 4th rounder. I still think he could have gotten more for Antropov but its to late for that now. Look for the Leafs to be busy during the off season with UFA signings and trades as well.

The Source

Mild Rumblings!

Here are just a few things that I have heard floating around:

1,) Nik Antropov could end up in the West as there seems to be a bit of a dog fight going on between Minny and Columbus. The Leafs want a goalie from both teams from what I am hearing which would obviously mean Harding from Minny and Leclaire from CBJ. Burke also wants an early 2nd rounder for Antropov.

2.) Jamal Mayers is almost certainley going to be traded to Detroit by the looks of things Holland has expressed interest and this could very well be the 1st trade Burke makes tomorrow.

3.) Matt Stajan is different IMO the Leafs should keep him but there is interest for him from teams such as Edmonton and Vancouver.

4.) Tomas Kaberle is a conundrum Burke said today he expects to hang on to he Olympic Czech player but IMO he will be moved. The lack of puck moving dmen available make it seem almost impossible that he won't be. Expect Boston, and Montreal to make the best offers.

5.) Dominic Moore will be traded I don't know where but a source has told me that it really depends on what he gets done in tonights game.

This is all I have for now

The Source

BREAKING RUMOR: Antropov to Columbus for Filatov?

Talking to many sources right now and as we know rumors are just that, but I have just been emailed from a very credible source that the Leafs and Blue Jackets may have agreed to a deal that would see the Leafs get Nikita Filatov and CBJ's 1st ound pick in this years draft.

I will keep everyone posted

The Source

UPDATE! While I have it on good authority that Antropov may end up in CBJ it won't be for this youngster, there is still talk of Leclaire but I think if the Leafs can even get a 1st out of Howson they should take it and run.

Maple Leafs VS Senators (4-3)

Pavel Kubina scored his second of the night 33 seconds into overtime to lead the Toronto Leafs to a 4-3 win over the Ottawa Senators on Saturday night.Jamal Mayers and Tim Stapleton, playing in just his second NHL game, also scored for the Leafs. Curtis Joseph, making his first start since January 1, stopped 29 shots for just his second win of the season.Ryan Shannon, Jarkko Ruutu and Daniel Alfredsson scored for the Senators while Brian Elliott faced 38 shots.Toronto's blue-line was given a helping hand as Tomas Kaberle returned to the lineup for the first time after missing the last 13 games with a broken hand and Mike Van Ryn returned from a leg injury after missing the last eight.With both teams out of the playoff picture it was expected this latest instalment of the Battle of Ontario might lack some intensity, but the 20,050 at Scotiabank Place weren't disappointed.Ottawa took control of the play early on as they pinned the Leafs in their own end, but couldn't find a way to score. Minutes later Toronto's Nik Antropov had a point blank shot, but couldn't beat Elliott.Toronto opened the scoring at the six-minute mark on a goal Elliott would most definitely want back. Mayers beat Elliott glove side with a wrist shot the Senators goaltender should have easily handled.The Leafs made it 2-0 as Stapleton scored his first NHL goal as he took advantage of an Ottawa turnover.After being outshot 18-8 in the first the Senators came out with greater intensity and scored 29 seconds into the second to cut the lead in half as Ryan Shannon beat Joseph from the slot.Four minutes later Ruutu tied the game as he jammed the puck in past Joseph shortside.The Leafs nearly regained the lead with just over two minutes remaining as Jason Blake had a breakaway, but Elliott came up with the big save.Ottawa took its first lead of the game as Alfredsson beat Joseph with a slapshot through the legs early in the third period.Kubina tied the game with just over five minutes remaining with a power-play goal.Toronto leads Ottawa in the season series 2-1..Alexandre Picard, playing in his first game after being a healthy scratch the last four, left the game after the first period with a lower body injury and will be re-evaluated Sunday.

The Source

This Article Sportsnet.Ca

Maple Leafs VS Islanders (5-4)

Tim Stapleton ended his first NHL game with a decisive shootout goal.

Stapleton scored in the third round of the shootout, leading the Toronto Maple Leafs to a 5-4 win over the New York Islanders on Thursday night.

"I didn't even know I scored until I curled after the shot and saw my teammates jump off the bench," Stapleton said. "I'm just fortunate it went in."

The 26-year-old Stapleton was undrafted out of the University of Minnesota-Duluth, and signed with Toronto last June after two seasons with Jokerit of the Finnish SM-liiga.

The Maple Leafs needed him in this one as the teams traded goals in the second round of the shootout, with Jeff Tambellini scoring for the Islanders and Jason Blake answering for the Maple Leafs.

The Islanders tied the game with 3:07 left in regulation when Jon Sim's shot from the right circle appeared to deflect off a Maple Leafs player and over Vesa Toskala's glove.

"It was a great pass from (Mark) Streit," Sim said, "and I let it rip."

Ian White, Dominic Moore, Pavel Kubina and Nik Antropov scored for Toronto, while Toskala stopped 40 shots for his third straight victory. The Maple Leafs have also won three straight in extra time.

Streit, Dean McAmmond and Sean Bergenheim also scored for the Islanders, who are 4-1-3 in the last eight home games. Joey MacDonald saved 29 shots for New York.

"It was an ugly game," Toronto coach Ron Wilson said. He then joked: "I'm growing my hair long so you can't see how gray it is."

Toronto needed just 97 seconds to grab a 1-0 lead. White grabbed a puck along the left boards, moved to the top of the left circle and sent a wrist shot past MacDonald.

"We talked about getting off to a good start," Kubina said, "and we did."

The Maple Leafs did even better in the second period, increasing their lead to 2-0 with 57 seconds gone -- and on a short-handed goal, no less.

Former Islander Jason Blake led a rush and passed to Moore, who took a shot from above the left circle that got by MacDonald. The short-handed goal was just Toronto's third this season, and first on the road.

The Islanders had a golden opportunity to cut Toronto's lead when Sean Bergenheim was awarded a short-handed penalty shot at 8:23. However, Toskala made a pad save on Bergenheim.

"I just wanted to lift it a little higher, and it didn't go," Bergenheim said.

New York made it 2-1 at 14:33 on McAmmond's first goal with the Islanders as he took Bill Guerin's pass in the left circle and sent a shot by Toskala.

Bergenheim made up for the penalty shot miss by tying the game with a short-handed goal at 3:30 of the final period.

While killing a major for elbowing to Brendan Witt, Bergenheim stole the puck at Toronto's blue line and broke in alone on Toskala, beating him with a backhander.

Kubina restored Toronto's lead on the same power play at 5:35 with a slapshot from the high slot. Antropov made it 4-2 at 7:05 on a close-in shot.

Streit cut the lead to 4-3 at 11:29 when he faked a slapshot from the left circle, took one stride in, and beat Toskala with a wrist shot.

"Other than a slow start, I think our guys gave a pretty solid effort," Islanders coach Scott Gordon said. "Especially considering we had a five-minute major against us, the team battled back from 4-2 and tied it up."

The Source

This Article Courtesy Sportsnet.ca

Leafs win in SO, Rumors

Great game by the Leafs tonight winning in a SO 2-1.

Rumors galore tonight I have spoke to someone close to the Kaberle situation and he has confirmed to me that Burke has received a very significant offer for the services of his veteran defenseman. I truly believe despite what Burke says someone will overpay for Tomas and I feel it would be a mistake for the Leafs not to move him during this rebuild.

I also have it on very good authority that it was the Colorado Avalanche that offered the Leafs the lottery pick for Luke Schenn.

In other news Nik Antropov's name has come up in Pittsburgh and Boston, apparently Burke wants Krecji from Boston or Staal from Pittsburgh in any deal for Antropov a little steep to me.

Jason Blake could be on his way to Minnesota for Niklas Backstrom if the Wild can't sign him to a contract by next Wednesday. (I feel this trade may be full of you know what)

Finally Alex Ponikarovsky and Matt Stajan have been getting significant interest from teams Anaheim and Vancouver are apparently 2 of the teams that may have need for them.

The Source

Leafs Re-Call Bell, is there a trade on the way?

Just to add fuel to the rumor fire the Toronto Maple Leafs have placed F Mark Bell on re-entry waivers. This could be a prelude to a trade in the coming days.

The Source

Leafs VS Rangers (3-2)

1st Period: Very good 1st by the Leafs they didn't have many shots but they definitely had the better scoring chances. Henrik Lundqvist is standing on his head right now for the Rangers. The Leafs need to shoot high on him as he covers the lower half of the net very well. On another note the Leafs seem to be having real trouble scoring on the PP lately and I'm sure they will work on that in practice tomorrow.

2nd Period: Vesa Toskala has been brilliant tonight he looks very solid in the net. He is giving up no rebounds. The Leafs lost some MO though and got into some penalty trouble, close call at the end of teh 2nd with Stajan hitting the post.

3rd Period: The Leafs played a really solid period of hockey, the Rangers really didn't deserve to be in the game but were lucky enough to get it into OT.

OT Period: Good win for the Leafs

The Source

Canucks VS Leafs (4-3)

Mats Sundin saved his best for last.

The Air Canada Centre crowd was on its feet Saturday as he skated in and scored the shootout winner in his return to the city where he spent 13 memorable years. It gave the Vancouver Canucks a 3-2 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on an entertaining evening.

Sami Salo and Alex Burrows scored in regulation for the Canucks (30-21-8).

Jason Blake and Matt Stajan replied for Toronto (21-26-12).

Sundin's shootout winner on Vesa Toskala came with his patented backhand move and helped earn him the first star. He received a hearty ovation when he came back out and took a bow to the crowd.

While some fans chose to boo Sundin in his first game at the arena as a visiting player, he was mostly well-received. The longtime Leafs captain was nearly moved to tears in the first period when he received a long standing ovation after a video tribute was played on the scoreboard.

The special treatment didn't carry on to the ice. Dominic Moore shoved Sundin a few times in the first period and set off a scrum in front of the Canucks bench.

The Maple Leafs emerged from that melee with a power play and Blake soon made it 1-0. He tipped Pavel Kubina's point shot by Roberto Luongo at 12:06 and pumped his fists in celebration of a team-leading 22nd goal of the season.

At the other end, Vesa Toskala was back in net for the Leafs and looked solid during his first start in a week. He stopped a long shot from Sundin in the first period and got his glove on a good power-play chance by Steve Bernier early in the second.

The Toronto goalie can't be faulted for the goal that tied the game at 9:49 of the second period. Salo's point shot deflected off Niklas Hagman's shin pad and behind Toskala on a power play.

Stajan got that back with a rare short-handed goal. He carried the puck into Vancouver's zone and beat Luongo through the legs with a low shot at 16:11. That gave him a career-best 41 points on the season.

One of the game's highlights came before the end of the second period and it didn't involve Sundin or a goal. Moore broke his stick while blocking a shot at the Leafs blue-line and managed to come in on a breakaway using his feet to kick the puck forward. He even found Blake with a pass but Luongo stopped the shot.

The Canucks were trailing 2-1 as they went to the dressing room after 40 minutes and likely got an earful from Alain Vigneault.

They started the third period with more urgency, but weren't able to generate any top-rate scoring chances. The Canucks even squandered a four-minute power play after Moore was sent off for cutting Willie Mitchell with a high stick.

It was just starting to look bleak when Burrows tied it 2-2 at 16:03. Daniel Sedin's long shot was heading well wide of the goal until Burrows redirected the puck from the slot.

The game was headed for overtime, giving Sundin a little extra time in front of the Toronto fans.

This Article Courtesy Sportsnet.ca

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Blue Jackets VS Leafs (4-3)

1st Period: What happened at the end of the period there? The Leafs really dominated the 1st period but gut unlucky at the end on a 2 on 1. Jeff Finger had to play the pass and he did very well Nash just had to good of a shot for Finger to deflect or block. Great all around play by the Moore and Stajan lines. The Grabovski line looks very weak defensivley.

2nd Period: Terrific 2nd by the Leafs for the most part, Antropov is really raising his value in this game and I'm sure Burkies cell will be ringing. I really think the Leafs need to look at there goaltending because if there is anything that has killed the Leafs this year its that. There are plenty of goaltenders available including Pascal Leclaire and JS Giguere. Should be a good 3rd Luke Schenn IMO dominated Jarret Boll in that fight and he once again is looking amazing and really showing why he will be named captain in the offseason.

3rd Period: This was a terrible period for the Leafs the same thing that happened last year is happening this year. Blowing leads, it was a terrible period from start to finish.

OT Period: OT was solid for Pogge he was the only Leaf to really show up.

SO: Nice win for CBJ

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Talks Are Heating Up, Leafs Close To Trade

With the trade deadline around the corner, Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke is already receiving trade offers for some of his players, the Toronto Sun reports.

According to the paper, Burke was proposed a trade Tuesday and the team's staff is looking into the player offered.

"We're really looking into the player," Burke told the Sun.

Burke also confirmed he received an offer for Leafs defenseman Luke Schenn. While the offer included what's expected to be a top-five first-round pick, the Leafs were not interested.

"It was a short conversation," Burke said. "I asked him, 'You want me to trade a top five pick, someone who might eventually be able to play, for an 18-year-old who is playing 22 minutes a game right now?' "

Burke also acknowledged the difficulty surrounding a possible trade involving defenseman Tomas Kaberle.

Kaberle has a no-trade clause, and while the All-Star blueliner would accept a move to certain teams, Burke said "it has to be a deal that blows my doors off and that hasn't happened."

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This Article Courtesy TFP

Sabres VS Leafs (4-1)

Welcome to the Air Canada Centre, kid.

Rookie goaltender Justin Pogge wasn't even a full period into his first start on home ice before getting jeered by Toronto Maple Leafs fans.

Even though the score was 3-0 Buffalo at that point, Pogge could really only be faulted for one of the pucks that got by him. But that didn't keep the crowd from cheering sarcastically when the 22-year-old goalie made an easy save.

"I think I probably deserved it," said Pogge. "It's just one of those things.

"Things don't go your way all the time. You've got to keep your head down and keep playing."

He played much better in the final 40 minutes, but most of the damage was already done as the Sabres skated away with a 4-1 victory on Tuesday night.

One of the most important thing the Leafs organization hopes to establish over the next two months is whether Pogge is more than just a former prospect. He's now made four NHL starts and will be back in goal when Columbus comes to town Thursday.

At this point, it's too soon to make a final judgment on him, which is why coach Ron Wilson would like the fans to be a little more patient.

"I don't know if they're expecting the way it's written up that he's the saviour of the franchise," said Wilson. "We're just trying to develop a goalie. I think (the jeers) just showed some of the frustration.

"Everyone's just got to be patient and let him grow."

Pogge is currently being given an opportunity that Brian Burke feels he hasn't really earned. The Leafs GM bluntly said as much on a Toronto radio station Tuesday, noting that the organization is "force-feeding this kid into the NHL."

It was an assessment Pogge agreed with after making 26 saves in the loss to Buffalo.

"That's the truth," he said. "If it was a playoff race, you wouldn't want to be throwing a young guy in there. I'm happy to be getting a shot at it. I'm just fortunate for the situation."

Drew Stafford led the way for Buffalo with two goals. Daniel Paille and Matt Ellis also scored for the Sabres (30-22-6), who moved into a tie for fifth in the Eastern Conference.

Pavel Kubina replied for the Maple Leafs (21-26-10).

The Sabres looked lacklustre in a loss to Carolina on Sunday and didn't come out with much energy in this one either.

If not for some great play by Ryan Miller, the Leafs would have had an early lead. The Sabres goalie made a few fantastic saves with his team a man short, sprawling around the crease and keeping out a couple sure Toronto goals.

When the Sabres finally pushed back, they managed to get some pucks behind Pogge quickly. The taunts from the crowd came after Ellis made it 3-0 by slipping a weak shot behind him.

"That's just a joke goal, you shouldn't let that in," said Pogge.

At the other end of the ice, Miller saw the whole thing as character-building. It took him a couple years to seize the No. 1 job in Buffalo and understands what a young goaltender needs to go through.

"You're going to learn a lot more from nights like this than you're going to learn, even from the American League," said Miller, who finished with 27 saves. "For him to get some experience right now is going to only help him. He's got the tools, he's got the size, it looks like he's starting to read some plays, he made a few nice saves tonight.

"But to be a consistent goalie at this level, you have to learn, you have to be in the nets, you have to be right out there. He'll come along and they're giving him every opportunity. He'll be fine."

Even Pogge acknowledged that he felt better after coming out in the second period and stopping all 13 shots he faced.

During that stretch, Kubina made it 3-1 with a power-play goal that had Leaf fans starting to think comeback. The chances of that ended with Kubina in the penalty box during the third period when Stafford got his second goal of the night.

It all added up to another loss in a season filled with many of them. The game did expose Pogge to some of the difficulties that come with playing for a franchise that is trying to rebound.

"The last four years we've had some tough times here," said forward Matt Stajan. "The fans let you know, no matter who you are."

And fortunately for Pogge, he's not headed straight back to the American Hockey League this time.

He's going to be around for the rest of this homestand and will get at least one more chance to make a better impression.

"This is great for him to go through this," said Wilson. "If it was easy, I'd be worried about him being over-confident. This is going to force him to work harder on his game and that's what he needs to do."

This article courtesy of Sportsnet.ca

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