It stood out that although Domi's line was by far the best in the game, they got a little better than 10 minutes of ice the whole game. Putting Nylander with Marner and Matthews didn't work and seldom does. Yet they were out every second shift despite producing nothing. As far as Marner is concerned, he must have some incriminating photos of Keefe. He never suffers from any of his costly mistakes.
Or maybe MM cried in the dressing room all the time and Keefe knows he can't be tough on him bc he just can't handle it.
For real, I believe people are different and react to different methods. However, they still need to be accountable for their own actions. Thats what is lacking on the Leafs for the past 5 years now. It is always an excuse of whatever that the top guys will not take accountability that they need to do better. The excuse is always, goaltending, bad luck, refs, coaching, injuries.....Not saying those are not factors because they are, but great players and great teams will always overcome them. Look at MJ and his Bulls, they were bullied by the Pistons for two-three years. They learnt, adopted and prepared for them and they beat them and never looked back.
What had the top guys learned over the past 7 playoffs? With only ONE playoffs series win, safe to say that series win should be a blueprint for winning and the way they play. Like create traffic in front of opposing net, don't take crap from the other team and stand up for each other like a pack, structural defense, clear the front of their own net, finish each check esp in the ozone..... Have they done that consistently this season? Bc when they do, they usually win.