Good first for the Canucks. The second period was the issue.
Although they allowed the Leafs to score 1:08 in, the Canucks played a pretty solid first period. High-danger chances were 7-3 Canucks. The second period was the issue. 5-on-5 high-danger chances were 10-0. The Leafs seemed to have the puck for most of the second period. That was the difference. Leafs scored two and essentially took control of the game.
Great pass by Hronek!
Back to the first period. What a great pass from Filip Hronek to Brock Boeser on the power-play goal. Leafs may have expected a back pass. Instead, Hronek sent Boeser deep. By the way, Boeser has a three-game goal streak. He has looked a lot better with EP40.
Better play from Rossi
He didn’t score, but it was a better game for Marco Rossi. His line with Drew O’Connor and Jonathan Lekkermaki was even, 5-on-5. But Rossi looked more assertive. 17:04, four shots, two giveaways. There is still more there. But it is encouraging.
Should Sasson play more?
Should Max Sasson get more ice time? He brings energy. He has speed. He has four goals. All 5 vs 5. He’s quietly providing some steady play.
Quinlan debut.
Jacon Quinlan made his Canucks debut. Not bad. 11:58, One shot on goal. Played with Linus Karlsson and Liam Ohgren. They outshot the Leafs 4-3, 5-on-5. The fact that the Canucks got an NHL player for a guy they put on waivers earlier in the day is a win. Yes, you need high draft picks and impact players. But shrewd moves help win championships.
Thoughts on the Leafs
As far as the Leafs. They look way better than last year. They play with energy. Some good movement of the puck. Some defensive adventures. Both Auston Matthew and William Nylander look a lot more engaged. Chris Tanev is still one of my favourite players to watch. He will make the Leafs better. Although they are a wait-and-see for me in terms of what to expect, they are a way better watch.
Caleb scores a beauty!
Caleb Malhotra turned some heads with this overtime goal for Boston University. BU came back from a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2. He has five points in eight games.
Practice facility progress?
The practice facility drama continues. Rick Dhaliwal mentioned on Friday’s Halford and Brough that the Canucks are still looking for a facility near Rogers Arena.
