What a great game, one of the closest tilts between BOS/TOR in a while. If it weren't for the EN goal, I totally could have seen the Leafs tying it up. The 2nd period was absolutely painful to watch but the rest of the game I was pleased with the effort. If we could find a way to play for 3 periods this team would be having a lot more success. Rask continues to hold it down for this team somehow through it all.
Nice to see Chara playing like himself again, I think this was his strongest game. Hamilton impresses more with every game, couldn't be happier with his play. Awesome having an effective 3rd line again, makes a big difference. Smith really seems to be at home on that line, he's been the biggest surprise on the team for me. Great to see Bergy get a couple of goals, you can tell he's really trying out there. I think Marchand took a little step back this game, couldn't seem to control the puck.
I thought Eriksson played fine and I am not on board at all with all the panic and hate for him. I think people are being incredibly impatient with him. I don't think any of our players come back from concussions and snap back to 100% immediately. And comparing him to Seguin is a bad idea, period. He's not going to be Seguin, he was not brought here to be Seguin. They are two completely different players. He's been the strongest on that line for me as far as breaking into the offensive zone and creating plays. He's playing with a couple of linemates that are struggling and I think that's part of the issue. In the meantime it would be great if he could shoot more but once Bergy gets back to 100% and Marchand finds his game, I think that line will be a thing of beauty.
Unfortunately the 4th line concerns me more each game. They have been such an important part of this team the past couple of years. They are not getting anything done when they are on the ice and they need their time cut until they can figure it out.
Also have to give props to Kessel. He's become a phenomenal player out there. I felt nervous every time he was on the ice last night, he is absolutely on fire right now. He wasn't a right fit for this team but I have to give him props for what he's doing on the Leafs right now. He's gonna have a great year not matter what happens to the Leafs this season.
