Watched the game:
- I'm a big Sandin guy, but this was a poor outing for him. Nevertheless, he was relied upon in all important situations, which says a lot about him.
- Baptiste has something that's lacking on the Leafs/Marlies. He's a strong kid with the ability to create space for himself, especially on the boards. Very unlikely he ever sees icetime with Leafs, but he was noticeable today and seemed to compliment his linemates well. He could've had 3-4, and for me, that's more of a negative than anything. The ability to score is important, so if he can figure that out down the stretch, he may find himself as an option heading into the offseason.
- Liljegren has improved a lot since last year. Not sure he's ready for NHL time next season, but he looks way more polished, stronger and overall more confident than I can remember since the Leafs drafted him. Hoping he takes the next step and continues to draw from his creative side that helped hype him up as a young teen... very odd that there's a conception he's fallen off
- Brooks was solid today, as well... he's definitely added speed to his game since being drafted. Think he's got something
- Timashov is a player. Not sure why he gets slagged so much around here, but I see a lot of similarities to Nyquist/Tatar... think he's a real prospect. People forget that he's only 5 months older than Bracco. Lots of time for him to continue developing. He started real slow this season, but he's now already surpassed his career high numbers
- Engvall is progressing nicely ... could be a bottom-6 option. Unique development now that he's shown he can make plays from the middle of the ice. Still development that's needed, but I think he's got what it takes to take the next step
- none of the Growlers guys were particularly noticeable for positive reasons