Tuesday's Thoughts

While wondering if 2015 is the year that one of my teams will make the playoffs, here is what's on my mind this morning:

* Another Browns season comes to an end and another dumpster fire is burning in Cleveland. The events of the past week have made it abundantly clear to me that Johnny Manziel needs to go. He's an immature punk who will never amount to a true pro quarterback. What he lacks in size he needs to make up with by increased preparation and paying attention to detail. Unfortunately, this kid doesn't have it upstairs to understand that. He is a college frat boy. He says he is going to change and be more dedicated and then the team has to send out security to find him because he was late for treatment. You can't trust a thing this punk says. If Johnny Manziel is on the Browns next year, it is a slap in the face to every Browns fan.

* The Browns also need to look long and hard at Josh Gordon. Of the 3 Stooges, Gordon could probably bring back the most to the Browns in a trade. During the off season I was ok with the Browns keeping Gordon on the team and riding out the suspension. But in light of recent events, Gordon has to go. When you look at rookies like Odell Beckhan Jr., Mike Evans, Sammy Watkins and Kelvin Benjamin and the impact that they have had this year with their respective teams then there is hope that you can get that talented number one receiver in the draft. Something to think about: how much better off would the Browns have been if they drafted any of these guys in the first round as opposed to Manziel and Justin Gilbert?

* Justin Gilbert may be the most salvageable of the 3 Stooges. However, he would have a short leash and if he didn't turn things around in OTAs and training camp, he would be gone by opening day in 2015. As a point of reference, here are the last 5 first round picks of the Browns: Brandon Weeden, Trent Richardson, Barkevious Mingo, Justin Gilbert and Johnny Manziel. And you want to know why this team is a dumpster fire every year?

* If I were in charge of the Browns, I would bring back Brian Hoyer and Connor Shaw and I would draft a quarterback later in the draft, somewhere between the third and fourth rounds. It is imperative that the lack of depth on the offensive line be addressed and tough decisions need to be made pertaining to Jordan Cameron and Jabaal Sheard. In my opinion, they would both be back.

* It's great that Cleveland owner Jimmy Haslam called out the 3 Stooges by saying such behavior won't be tolerated. What concerns me is that Haslam qualified things after he said that by saying that these young guys will be given the opportunity to correct things. To me, that's a bunch of crap. If you weren't prepared to complete your job at work or if you came late to work, you would be fired. Haslam needs to have a backbone and get rid of the 3 Stooges.

* The Chicago Bears cleaned house on Monday by firing GM Phil Emery and Head Coach Marc Trestman. It was evident that Trestman lost the team and that was really clear when his Offensive Coordinator Aaron Kromer called out Jay Cutler publically. At that point, Trestman should have fired Kromer. When that didn't happen he was done. Emery was the guy who hired Trestman and signed Jay Cutler to his current contract. His free agent signings have been a bust and the rapid decline of the  Bears defense has doomed this team, in spite of all the offensive talent. In my mind, the right guy for the job as head coach would be Rex Ryan. Ryan is a defensive specialist who can build defenses. With the right offensive coordinator, Ryan could be the guy to restore the Monsters of the Midway.

* The New York Jets followed the Bears by doing what everyone expected by firing Ryan along with General Manager John Idzik. Idzik was in over his head and that showed in his drafting and his inability to bring in any quality free agents. Jets owner Woody Johnson needs to give some hope to a fan base that is rancid right now about their team.

* The Michigan Wolverines football program may be on the road to respectability with the hiring of Jim Harbaugh. This was a good move for both the school and for Harbaugh. What will be interesting now is how San Francisco will replace him.

* Mike Smith getting fired in Atlanta came as no surprise particularly after their terrible performance Sunday against Carolina. Of course, not much has been done to improve the Falcons defense.

* People want to criticize Tom Brady but for me he is the ultimate team guy who is all about winning as he re-negotiated his contract to give the Patriots an extra $24 million dollars in cap space.

* Now on the other hand you have Ndamukong Suh. This guy stomps on Aaron Rodgers' leg and as a result is suspended for next weekend's playoff game against the Dallas Cowboys. It will be interesting to see if the Lions will re-sign this thug and if they don't who will. Guy has a ton of talent but he can't control himself.

* One team you might not want to play in the NFC Playoffs is the Carolina Panthers and the team that could knock off Seattle in the NFC is Dallas.

* The injury to Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell knee may prevent him from playing against Baltimore on Saturday night. That's a tough break for Pittsburgh as Bell has been a work horse. If he is unable to go, Ben Roethlisberger will really be asked to carry the offensive load.

* I was not a big Shawn Kelley fan but I'm not sure I understand what Brian Cashman is doing. He's added Andrew Miller and Justin Miller and has lost David Robertson and Kelley. The big talk was that Cashman was going to build up the bullpen a la Kansas City. Somehow I don't see it.

* The play of the Toronto Maple Leafs as of late is a disgrace. Blowing both games in Florida after having a 2 goal lead is inexcusable. The last time that happened on consecutive nights by the Maple Leafs was in April 1989. What's more maddening is being out shot continuously by wide margins. Seems like the same old story. I'm not a big Randy Carlyle fan but I'm not sure changing the coach will change this team's inability to play sound defensive hockey and have it start to maintain puck control in the other team's zone.  

* The announcement by Kyle Orton of his retirement from the NFL has really set the Buffalo Bills into panic mode. Orton was signed just before the season started as it was felt that there was a need to have a veteran ready to step in if EJ Manuel faltered. Well after the loss to Houston, Orton was in and he was better than Manuel but not good enough to get the Bills into the playoffs. With Orton out, the Bills are left with Manuel and the so-called Bills Mafia is besides themselves. One has to wonder if going 9-7 this year will ultimately have set the franchise back. If the Bills have decided Manuel is not salvageable, then they will need to bring in not only a veteran but also need to get a young guy. 

* And finally, to all of those who follow this blog, a Happy and Healthy 2015.

A Christmas Eve Edition: Tuesday's Thoughts

While remembering CHCH-TV Hamilton's tracking of where Santa was on Christmas Eve night, here's what is on my mind this morning:

* Well, the Cleveland Browns quarterback mockery continues as once again another season where we could very well see three guys attempt to be the team's signal caller. What a joke. It's a possibility that Connor Shaw will come up from the practice squad to be the starter against Baltimore. Two weeks ago, former Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar criticized the team for the way they have handled the quarterback position going back to Tim Couch. On Monday, Couch echoed Kosar's sentiments by saying that there has been a failure to build a team throughout the roster with whoever is in the quarterback position paying the price. To Couch's point, the early returns on the 2014 first round draft picks is not good. More on that in a minute. You also have to look at the lack of depth, particularly on the offensive line. The good organizations have depth in the critical spots, specifically on the offensive and defensive lines. 

* This week the word coming out of the Browns locker room is the the team's first round picks, Justin Gilbert and Johnny Manziel, have a lot of growing up to do. First, Karlos Dansby called out Gilbert by saying the young cornerback out of Oklahoma State needs to realize that he's not in college anymore. Dansby questioned Gilbert's dedication. Then, we have Manziel admitting that he could have done more to be prepared and promising to dedicate himself to be better in 2015. He went on to say that he had to take things more seriously. My question is: where is the coaching staff to straighten these two guys out? Where are the veteran leaders on the team to grab these two by the throat and let them know they are in the National Football League? As I have stated before, this team cannot afford to blow first round draft picks. First rounders on a team like the Browns should be contributors in their first year, particularly one taken as high as Gilbert. Once again, General Manager Ray Farmer will have two first round draft picks in the upcoming draft and he needs to cash in on both of them. 

* My thoughts on the Browns quarterback situation going into next season has been all over the map. At the end of the day, I think it would be in the team's best interest to re-sign Brian Hoyer, bring in another quarterback and move Johnny Manziel out of Cleveland. I'm convinced that Manziel will not be a starting QB in the NFL. He's too small and he does not have the mind set needed to compensate for that.  

* My initial reaction to the acquisition of Nathan Eovaldi, Domingo German and Garrett Jones from the Miami Marlins for Martin Prado and David Phelps was negative. But thinking about it more, the Yankees acquire two strong arm pitchers who are both under the age of 25 and a legitimate back up first baseman in Jones. By moving Prado, it would appear that the Yankees may be willing to go with either Jose Pirrela or Rob Refsnyder at second base. An infusion of youth into the lineup is fine by me as the Yankees are a few years away from being a legitimate World Series contender. 

* The Toronto Maple Leafs snapped their three game losing streak with a 4-0 road win against the Dallas Stars. Jonathan Bernier was outstanding in goal making 43 saves for the shut out. Dion Phaneuf may have had his best game of his Maple Leaf career as he was all over the ice which included a bone crushing hit on Jason Spezza and a fight with Antoine Roussel. The Captain was also a threat offensively and did have an assist. With the win the Leafs head into the Christmas break with an important two points as they will embark on a six game road trip beginning Sunday December 28th at Florida to take on the Panthers. 

* With last night's victory, Toronto will have won 20 games before Christmas for the first time since the 2003-04 season and only the fifth time since the 1977-78 season. 

* In spite of his Super Bowl win, I am not a big believer in Joe Flacco. Last Sunday he was terrible against the Houston Texans as the Ravens were beaten 25-13. The loss was devastating for Baltimore's playoff chances as they need to win against Cleveland and hope for a San Diego loss

* I'm going on record to say that there is no way the Detroit Lions will defeat Green Bay at Lambeau Field. 

* Denver's loss to Cincinnati probably ensures that New England will have home field advantage throughout the AFC Playoffs. I honestly believed that this Broncos team was better than the one that went to the Super Bowl last year. However, in order to go back to the big game, they will need to win in Foxboro where Peyton Manning has had difficulties throughout his career. 

* The Bills loss to the lowly Oakland Raiders should not be a surprise to anyone. Buffalo's defense has been outstanding but at the end of the day inconsistent play at the quarterback position is what doomed their playoff hopes. Kyle Orton is a nice back-up but he is not going to take you to the Promise Land. You also have to wonder whether CJ Spiller will be in a Bills uniform next season. In my opinion, Spiller has never been the running back that Buffalo envisioned when he was drafted. The challenge for the Bills will be to try to improve their offense so as to not waste the defensive unit that has been put together. 

* When you look at the quarterback situation for a number of teams, you have to wonder whether there is enough talent out there for 32 teams. A big problem is kids leaving school early and not being mentally and physically prepared. 

* Kudos to Rangers forward Rick Nash as he scored his 21st and 22nd goals last night leading New York to a 4-2 win over the Capitals. Nash was criticized big time in the New York media last season but he has come back with a vengeance. 

* And finally, I got a peek at the Christmas list sent to Santa and here is what I found:

- Browns fans are asking for a quarterback they can believe in.

- Maple Leaf fans are asking for a spot in the playoffs with at least a first round win.

- Yankee fans are asking for the fountain of youth.

- Jets fans are asking for a competent GM.

- Bills fans are asking for a playoff appearance in 2015.

- Bears fans are asking to find Rex Ryan or Jim Harbaugh on their team's sideline as their head coach in 2015

- Raptors fans are asking for continued success this season and an extended playoff stay in 2015.

- Michigan fans are asking for Jim Harbaugh to be on their team's sideline as their head coach in 2015.

- 49ers management is asking for Jim Harbaugh to not be on their sideline as their head coach in 2015.

- Cubs fans are hoping that their young talent will continue to grow and along with Jon Lester lead them to a spot in the playoffs.

- Knick fans are asking for a miracle.

- Edmonton Oiler fans are asking for a miracle.

- Multiple NHL teams are asking for Connor MacDavid to be on their roster next season. 

Merry Christmas!!!!!

Tuesday's Thoughts

While being proud of myself that I have finished my Christmas shopping, here is what's on my mind this morning:

* Well, the Johnny Football era began in Cleveland on Sunday and it was a total disaster. Manziel looked awful. He made bad throws and looked lost out there. The running game was non-existent which put more of an onus on Manziel. The Browns defense was terrible. To allow the Bengals to rush for over 100 yards in the first half was disgraceful. 

* Merrell Hoge was very outspoken in his criticism of Manziel and the Browns in general. To be honest with you, I agree with Hoge. There is no doubt we have only seen Manziel start one game but Hoge made an excellent point when he said that Manziel was not a first round talent but was taken in the first round. The pick was a reach and I have to wonder how much influence Jimmy Haslam had with that decision. But Manziel is not the only questionable selection in the first round as Justin Gilbert has had a VERY unimpressive rookie season. Gilbert was the eighth pick overall in the draft and could not crack the starting lineup. With two first round picks in the 2015 Draft, let's hope General Manager Ray Farmer does a better job than he did in this year's draft.

* Interesting article in the NY Post this morning about Johnny Manziel. The Post's Bart Hubbuch called into question Kyle Shanahan's play calling by saying that Manziel was in sets that did not capitalize on his ability to use his legs which set the rookie quarterback up for failure. Hubbuch makes some interesting points particularly when he claims that his league sources indicated that the Browns drafted Manziel at the behest of owner Jimmy Haslam rejecting Mike Pettine's opinion on Manziel.

* By the way, I hate the all brown uniforms that Cleveland wore Sunday. What happened to tradition? The classiest uniforms are the traditional ones: Green Bay, Indianapolis, NY Giants and Dallas. 

* The Toronto Maple Leafs are on fire as they had a weekend sweep of the Detroit Red Wings and the Los Angeles Kings. Moreover, they swept all four games in the two back to back sets that they faced. What has been a pleasant surprise has been the secondary scoring that the Leafs are receiving from guys like Mike Santorelli and Richard Panik. It's funny how being able to roll four lines that can play has had a major impact up to this point of the season. The depth that the Leafs have will lead the coaching staff to make some tough decisions once Leo Komorov and Roman Polak are ready to play. 

* It's really fun to see a player grow in front of your eyes and that's what we are witnessing with Nazem Kadri. I'm going to be honest with you, I had my doubts about this kid but he has made me a believer. Not sure if it was the chat that he had with Brendan Shanahan but Kadri is no longer a defensive liability. He is arguably the Leafs best all around center. I was truly impressed with how he handled both Henrik Zetterberg and Anze Kopitar. As he continues to commit to the defensive aspects of the game, with his offensive skill he can be one of the top all around players in the league. 

* Leafs Lunch on Friday had the three hosts predict how many points the Leafs would get on the weekend. Brian Hayes said the Leafs would get three points, Jamie MacClennan said two points and Jeff O'Neill said zero. I guess Jeff was wrong and shame on Hayes for not calling him out on it Monday.

* The Leafs have five games remaining before the Christmas break and those five games start off tonight against the Anaheim Ducks at the Air Canada Center. It is key for the Leafs to avoid any extended losing streaks if they are to convince themselves and their apprehensive fan base that this will be another season where there is a late season collapse. After tonight, the Leafs go to Carolina on Thursday, play Saturday at the ACC against Philadelphia and then go to Chicago on Sunday to take on the Blackhawks. Their last of the five game stint is on December 23 at Dallas. I'll take going 3-2 before they head out on a five game road trip after Christmas.

* The Yankees announced the signing of Chase Headley to continue to play third base. The deal was four years at $52 million dollars. If Headley can stay healthy then this is not a bad deal. My concern is that this guy has had a history of back issues. Hopefully those are behind him. This signing would also seem to indicate that the Yankees see Alex Rodriguez as mainly a DH which according to both NY dailies will not sit well with him. Nothing like ARod drama to begin another baseball season.

* Brian Cashman indicated in an interview that the Yankees are not in on Max Scherzer. The reason given was that the team did not want to commit to a seven year contract to a 30 year old pitcher. Hmmm...do you believe him?

* Is there a bigger joke of a franchise in the National Hockey League than the Edmonton Oilers? Dallas Eakins is the latest head coach to get the ax as it was announced yesterday that Eakins was fired and General Manager Craig MacTavish has named minor league coach Todd Nelson as interim head coach. As I mentioned last week, Eakins would have been better served being an assistant coach in the NHL before taking a number one job, especially one that saw two experienced head coaches (Pat Quinn and Tom Renney) not be able to turn the team around. There are two constants that have overseen this mess: Kevin Lowe and Craig MacTavish. Someone should tell ownership that it is time to cut the cord from the 80's Oilers as these guys have led this once proud franchise into the toilet. 

* Interesting fact number one: the Green Bay Packers have never won in Ralph Wilson Stadium. 

* Interesting fact number two: the New York Jets 16-11 victory over the Tennessee Titans is the first time that the score of 16-11 has ever been the final score of an NFL game. 

* Plenty of talk about the NHL expanding to Las Vegas. To me, expansion is not the answer but re-location is the way to go. All they would have to do is move the Florida Panthers to Las Vegas and that would give each conference 15 teams. There is no question that Quebec City or a second team in Toronto is more deserving but the NHL must even out the conferences. Bringing the league up to 32 teams further dilutes the talent. 

* So far the Boston Red Sox have spent the most money in free agency. So much for the evil empire. 

* Jon Lester was presented to the Chicago media as he had signed with the Cubs. Lester's number is 34 in deference to Walter Payton, Kerry Wood and Nolan Ryan. This guy is going to be well liked in the Windy City. 

* Tough news for the Dallas Cowboys as DeMarco Murray has a broken hand and has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Indianapolis. It will be interesting to see how this impacts the Cowboys since he has become a vital cog in that team's offense. 

* Kudos to Marcus Mariota for winning the Heisman Trophy. It will be interesting to see if this kid decides to leave Oregon. 

* Was really interesting to hear former Heisman Trophy Winner John Huarte tell the story how he was notified that he had won the award. Huarte was the quarterback for Notre Dame and won the award 50 years ago. He was in his dorm room and the phone was ringing out in the hallway. Huarte answered it and was told that he won the Heisman. Far cry from today's major production put on by ESPN.

* Well Bills fever is running wild in Western New York. Buffalo's chance to make the playoffs are slim but it is feasible that they could go 9-7 which would be a big improvement over last season. However the big question is: will this success lull the franchise to believe that they can be playoff contenders with Kyle Orton as quarterback?

* And finally, Ted Nolan is one of the best coaches in the National Hockey League. Despite a roster way short on talent, he has managed to get the Buffalo Sabres to be a respectable hockey team. While I understand Sabre fans wanting their team to tank so they can draft Connor MacDavid or Jack Eichel, it is not in Nolan's DNA to have his team not compete. Think about his first stint with the Sabres when he had "the hardest working team" in the NHL. If the Sabres wanted to tank, they should have kept Ron Rolston. By the way, there were plenty of empty seats at the First Niagara Center last night when Buffalo played Ottawa.

Where Have You Gone Brian Cashman?

The Baseball Winter Meetings have come to a conclusion and the Yankees have the same holes they had when Brian Cashman came to San Diego. In fact, in my opinion, they are actually worse off. After signing Andrew Miller, Cashman indicated that it was still a possibility that the Yankees would re-sign homegrown closer David Robertson. Well, Robertson ends up signing for 4 years at $48 million dollars. It was reported that the Yankees were prepared to give Robertson $46 million dollars. The problem is, despite Cashman's alleged interest, there was no communication between the player and the team. C'mon Brian!! There is no way that if Cashman was truly interested in Robertson that there would not have been any discussion.

There are a number of things that bother me about the Robertson situation. First, the Yankees gave Robertson a qualifying offer which meant that if he signed with another club the Yankees would receive that team's first round pick. Well, because the White Sox record was so bad they will not relinquish its first round pick and instead will get a sandwich pick. Big deal! Second, now the Yankees do not have a proven legitimate closer. Cashman's statements that they could go with both Betances and Miller as co-closers is plain out garbage. Pitchers, and especially closers, thrive on consistency and repetition. And finally, once again a homegrown player was allowed to leave the Yankees. So much for the Yankee Way. What kind of message does this send to the prospects throughout the organization?

The week before the Winter Meetings, the Yankees traded Shane Greene to acquire Didi Gregorius. Of course, they needed a shortstop and Gregorius fits the bill. However, by moving Greene, the Yankees now have two holes in their starting rotation and that is provided both CC Sabathia and Masahiro Tanaka are healthy. The reports coming out of New York was that the Yanks wanted to re-sign Brandon McCarthy to fill one of the openings in the rotation. Well, forget that as the Dodgers signed McCarthy and Cashman is now saying that he knew McCarthy's market price was not going to be to there liking. Again, the Yankees made no offer to a "supposed" target. 

So coming out of the Winter Meetings, the bullpen has no proven closer and one of their targets to try to fill their rotation goes to LA.  Potential starting pitcher possibilities are coming off the board. The Red Sox acquired Wade Miley and Rick Porcello while signing free agent Justin Masterson. Ervin Santana signed with Minnesota and Mat Latos was traded by the Cincinnati Reds. In addition, the infield is still unsettled but for Gregorius and China doll Mark Teixiera. 

So my question is: What is the plan Mr.Cashman? As Yankee fans we deserve to know. I am not one to call for the Yankees to go crazy spending. Max Scherzer is a very good pitcher but the length of what he's looking for in term is too long. Adam Warren and David Phelps as your number four and number five starters? Give me a break. All we hear from Cashman and Joe Girardi is how important pitching is yet the rotation is a mess and there is no proven closer. And don't try to sell me on Jason Grilli and Sergio Romo. 

If Cashman decides to go with Martin Prado at third base and either Jose Pirela or Rob Refsnyder at second base, that's fine with me. But, the pitching staff is still a mess and any improvement in offensive output will be dependent upon Carlos Beltran, Brian McCann and Teixiera bouncing back. And then there is Alex Rodriguez. Who knows what the Yankees will get from him. 

At this point, the Yankees are not better than they were last year. I hope I'm wrong but it's troublesome to have to depend on aging players like Beltran, Teixiera and Rodriguez. Even more troubling is that Toronto and Boston have made moves to make their teams' better. But what has become even more troubling is that the Yankees inability to develop a strong farm system has prevented them to get in on the trade market for pitchers like Samardzija and Latos. Two guys who would upgrade the starting rotation dramatically. 

There is still two months until pitchers and catchers report to training camp so there is time for improvement. But based on no prospects that would be worth bringing in a quality pitcher or position player and no free agents who are worth the risk and the cost, it's looking grim for the Pinstripers. Particularly with a GM and an organization that seems to only be concerned about the bottom line and as a result perpetuate a myth that they are all in it to win it. 

Tuesday's Thoughts

While wondering if anyone under the age of 45 in Western New York knows what "The Little Three" is, here's what is on my mind this morning:

* Well I wonder if Joe Thomas still thinks that Brian Hoyer gives the Cleveland Browns the best chance to win. If he does then he has taken too many blows to the head while playing on the offensive line. The Browns confounded Andrew Luck for a good portion of the game, scored two touchdowns on their own and set up a field goal with an interception but it was still not enough as the Indianapolis Colts came from behind to defeat the Browns 25-24. The defense forced the Colts into four turnovers but the most the Browns could get out of that was three points. But this has been a problem for weeks and the blame lies with Hoyer and Offensive Coordinator Kyle Shanahan. 

* Hoyer had good field position throughout most of the game but was unable to capitalize on it. I'm not sure what more needs to be seen to realize that Brian Hoyer is not a starting quarterback let alone a franchise quarterback. You saw one on Sunday in Andrew Luck. Even when they are having a bad day, they make plays to win and Luck did just that particularly in the second half. 

* Really disturbed over reports by Jay Glazer that the Browns were not happy with Johnny Manziel because he was at a Cleveland Cavaliers game. According to the report, the Browns are concerned over Manziel's lack of preparation and that he should have been spending his time getting ready for the Colts' game because there was a chance he might start. Are you kidding me? If this is true then the Ray Farmer/Mike Pettine era may rank up there with the list of dumb regimes that have ran the Cleveland Browns since 1999. The Browns knew that this kid marches to his own drumbeat. His off the field exploits should not be a surprise. Besides, two hours at a Cavs game is going to make the difference in whether Manziel is ready to play? Give me a break!!

* Saw Coach Mike Pettine's press conference and I'm still not sure who will be starting against Cincinnati this Sunday. If the Browns have no intention of bringing Hoyer back or they don't feel they can keep him at what they consider fair, then Johnny Manziel should be the starter. By the way, in my opinion, he should have been the starter against the Colts. 

* The Toronto Maple Leafs have a big week coming up with two sets of back to back games. The first set begins tonight at 7:30 as the surprising Calgary Flames roll into the ACC. The Leafs are 4-1 on this current homestand and they would like to close it out with a victory. Then on Wednesday they go over to Detroit to take on the Red Wings. The Wings have been playing well as of late and the Leafs must be ready from the opening face off in both of these games. I would imagine that James Reimer will play one of these two games. Jonathan Bernier has really asserted himself as the team's number one but Reimer should get one of these two games. The weekend sees the Leafs hosting Detroit on Saturday and the defending Stanley Cup Champion Los Angeles Kings on Sunday. No doubt that both goalies will see action over the weekend. 

* It had been reported a week or so ago that Phil Kessel is fending off some nagging injuries and it looks it. Kessel never wants to come out of the lineup but he doesn't seem to have his usual spark when he has the puck in open ice. He seems to be laboring quite a bit. If he is hurting, the team needs to step in as missing a couple of games in December isn't a big deal but missing 5 or more in February and March could be a big problem. 

* It is really a pleasure to see the Leafs utilizing all four lines. The off season acquisitions have panned out as Mike Santorelli, Daniel Winnik, Richard Panik, Leo Komorov and David Booth are giving the Leafs forward depth that they have not had in quite awhile. Wonder if Randy Carlyle misses Colton Orr and Fraser McLaren. 

* Nazem Kadri really impressed me Saturday night against Vancouver. Carlyle had Kadri centering a line with Mike Santorelli and Daniel Winnik. Their assignment was to battle the Sedins and Kadri was every bit up to the task. The defensive side of the game has been a concern pertaining to Kadri's play. But, it's obvious that the young center has received the message and is starting to round out his game. This bodes well for the Leafs along with the development of their other young center, Peter Holland. Both of these former first round draft picks are giving the Leafs some hope at the center position. 

*The Baseball Winter Meetings began yesterday and it will be interesting to see what the New York Yankees do as they still have some holes to fill. Last week, the Yanks traded Shane Greene in a three team deal to acquire shortstop Didi Gregorius. Gregorius will fill the shortstop position vacated by the retirement of Derek Jeter. This 25 year old youngster is an excellent defender but has a weak bat. Moving Greene creates another hole in the starting rotation that has Masahiro Tanaka (fingers crossed he doesn't need Tommy John), Ivan Nova (won't be ready until May-June coming off Tommy John), CC Sabathia (coming off knee surgery) and Michael Pineda. If Adam Warren and David Phelps round out this rotation, I don't care who they have in the bullpen. 

* Speaking of the bullpen, letting David Robertson go is a huge mistake. Brian Cashman has said that they don't have a proven closer and that they might go after someone like Jason Grilli. Are you kidding me? There is something terribly wrong with this organization as it seems coming up through the farm system means nothing when it comes to free agency. 

* Its being reported that the Yankees and Giants are the team's most interested in Chase Headley. 

* The Cubs signed Jason Hammel and appear to be in on Jon Lester. According to Jon Heyman, the Cubs and the Giants appear to be the favorites to sign the 30 year old left-hander. If the Cubs get Lester look out!!

* The other Chicago team, the White Sox have made two huge moves signing Yankee closer David Robertson and acquiring Jeff Samardzija. 

* The Seattle Mariners seem to be the favorites to sign Miquel Cabrera. You know Robinson Cano will be lobbying for the Melkman. If they get Cabrera, the Mariner lineup bulks up big time with Cabrera, Cruz and Cano. 

* The Oakland A's appear to be in sell off mode as they have moved Josh Donaldson to the Blue Jays and Brandon Moss to Cleveland along with letting Jason Hammel and Jeff Samardzija go. Apparently, Billy Beane believes he needs to re-tool with youth. 

* Interesting story about how the relationship between David Ortiz and Alex Rodriguez has soured ever since ARod's attorney questioned Ortiz's use of PEDs. If the shoe fits, wear it Big Papi. 

* The NCAA Playoff Committee got it right by knocking TCU out of the final four and putting Ohio State in it. The Buckeyes deserve the opportunity after defeating Wisconsin in convincing fashion 59-0 in the Big Ten Championship Game. What made it more impressive was that the Buckeyes did it with their third string quarterback. 

* Really looking forward to watching Marcus Mariota and his Oregon Ducks take on Crablegs Winston and Florida State. Here's hoping the Ducks do the job on the lucky Seminoles. 

* Paul MacLean was fired yesterday as head coach of the Ottawa Senators. Rather strange since this guy was the darling of the hockey world two years ago. Maybe the powers that be in Ottawa should realize that they don't have a very good team. I'm sure MacLean will find a job somewhere next season. 

* There is a report that Cubs starting shortstop Starlin Castro may have been involved in a firefight in a nightclub in the Dominican Republic. I really like Castro and think he could be a star shortstop for years to come but if he is involved here this won't bode well for him with GM Theo Epstein. 

* Two of the most sought after head coaches in the NFL may be Jim Harbaugh and Rex Ryan. I've seen Ryan's name mentioned with Atlanta and Chicago. Harbaugh is rumored to be coveted by Oakland and the NY Jets. 

* And finally, The Little Three consisted of the three Catholic independent basketball teams in Western New York: Niagara, Canisius and St.Bonaventure. The schools would play a home and home series each year, though Niagara's home games were played at Buffalo's War Memorial Auditorium because the Student Center (now named the Gallagher Center) was too small. These three schools regularly played Syracuse, Villanova, St. John's and Providence. In fact, all three programs were better than Georgetown. 

Pettine Creates A Problem With QB Situation

Cleveland Browns Head Coach Mike Pettine has created another, in a long line, of quarterback controversies by replacing Brian Hoyer on Sunday with Johnny Manziel and then naming Hoyer the starter for this Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts. Pettine indicated that his decision was based on the belief that Hoyer gave them the best chance to win. If that is the case, why put Manziel in against Buffalo early in the fourth quarter with the team down 20-3? After all, Hoyer has been the master of fourth quarter comebacks.

What Pettine probably didn't expect was the drive Manziel directed which ended with Johnny Football running in for a touchdown to make the score 20-10 with plenty of time remaining. In that same drive, Manziel showed a stronger arm than Hoyer and obviously provided more of a running threat. Johnny Football gave the offense a much needed spark, something that has been lacking over the last few games. 

In full disclosure, I did not want the Browns to draft Manziel. I questioned his ability to play his type of game in the NFL and be successful. Pettine's decision to name Hoyer the starter was the right one to make at the beginning of the season. In the first 7 games of the season, Hoyer threw for 8 touchdowns and only 2 interceptions. What made him successful was limiting turnovers. However, the last five games have been a disaster. The stat line shows only 3 touchdown passes and 8 interceptions. These numbers include the win on a Thursday night over Cincinnati where Hoyer didn't throw a touchdown or an interception. It makes the numbers even worse. 

Many are saying that the Browns are still in the playoff hunt so it would be foolish to hand the fate of the team's playoff chances to a rookie quarterback. That's all fine and dandy but let's have a reality check. In order for the Browns to make the playoffs they are going have to win the division which means that they will need to beat Cincinnati and Baltimore and win one of the games against Carolina or the Colts and that might not still be enough. If they happen to make the playoffs, they are not going to the Super Bowl. So I guess until they are mathematically eliminated, the Browns will keep Hoyer as the starter and delay the evaluation process of Johnny Manziel. In a word: stupid. 

I've heard some say that the Browns should give Hoyer the remainder of this season and the beginning of next season before your consider replacing Hoyer with Manziel. Really?? People want to compare Hoyer to Brian Sipe but he is no Sipe. In 1980, Sipe was the AP NFL Most Valuable Player. Somehow I don't see Brian Hoyer being an NFL MVP. I don't see him being a Pro Bowler either. 

Based on what I've seen this season, Hoyer is a serviceable back-up quarterback. He is not a franchise quarterback. Johnny Manziel?? I'm not sure if Johnny Football is the answer but I would like to find out now. In the 2015 Draft, the Browns have two first round picks that could be packaged to move up to take a Marcus Mariota. That's why the Browns need to know if Johnny is the guy. They can only find out if he plays. 

If Hoyer starts off the Indy game like he has in the last two games, the crowd at First Energy Stadium will be surly and Mike Pettine will have a full blown quarterback controversy on his hands. A controversy he created.

Tuesday's Thoughts

As the countdown to Christmas begins, here's what is on my mind this morning:

* The Johnny Manziel era begins in Cleveland and it is the move that had to be made. As anyone who has read this blog or my Twitter posts, you know that I was not crazy about the Browns drafting Johnny Football. I had no problem with Coach Mike Pettine going with Brian Hoyer as the Browns starting quarterback. But over the last five games, Hoyer has shown that he is not the quarterback of the future let alone the guy to lead this team to the playoffs this year. In his last five games, Hoyer has thrown for three touchdowns while also throwing 8 interceptions. The first seven games, he had 8 touchdowns and only two interceptions.

* As a realistic Browns fan, I know it would be nice if they made the playoffs but if they did they would probably get bounced in their first game. That's why making the move to Manziel is best for the long term future of the franchise. It's imperative that the Browns see what they have in Johnny Football before the end of this season to determine if they need to use a top draft pick on another quarterback in the 2015 Draft. 

* Kyle Shanahan had another bad game and all of the talk about him getting a head coaching job next year is pre-mature in my mind. Two points: 1.) Why did he continue to run sweeps with Isiah Crowell? The play went no where every time it was called. 2.) On Buffalo's 1st series of the second half, Kyle Orton was picked off by Joe Haden inside Buffalo territory. Why wouldn't you go for the jugular with a play action pass to the end zone? Instead he tried the same running play to Crowell that went no where. Then Hoyer gets sacked and the Browns have to punt the ball away. 

* One other point about the play calling, the Browns red zone offense is no better now than it was under Pat Shurmer and Rob Chudzinski. You need to score touchdowns. 

* The Maple Leafs continue to play well as they convincingly defeated the Washington Capitals 6-2 on Saturday night. Since the 9-2 drubbing at the hands of the Nashville Predators, this Leaf team seems to be playing with a purpose. Even in their 4-3 overtime loss at Pittsburgh, they showed some fight as they fought back from a 2-0 deficit to tie the game in regulation.

* The Leafs are finally healthy up front as they got Joffrey Lupul and David Booth back and as a result Randy Carlyle is using four lines which have all been productive. 

* The Alex Ovechkin hit on Leo Komorov was a cheap shot and should warrant a review by the NHL. All I have to say is this: if the shoe was on the other foot and Komorov cheap shot Ovechkin resulting in him being taken out of the game, Komorov would be suspended. Here's hoping Komorov can play tonight against Dallas. 

* Jake Gardiner's heart has been called into question but he was the first player who I saw get into Ovechkin's face after he nailed Komorov. Funny, I haven't heard any of the Toronto gasbags mention that at all. 

* Here's hoping Korbinian Holzer continues to play as he had the last two games. If it continues, the Leafs are in a very good position for a possible trade once Roman Polak comes back.

* The Leafs will have some difficult decisions to make as they approach the trade deadline this season. They have a number of players who will be free agents next season (Cody Franson, Nazem Kadri, Jonathan Bernier, Mike Santorelli, Daniel Winnik). There have been reports that Joffrey Lupul is concerned about possibly being moved out of Toronto. I like Lupul but the Leafs really didn't miss a beat when he was out with an injury. If Holzer shows that he can play well consistently, the Leafs may be able to move a defenseman. The key would be to clear cap space as the cap will not go up that much next season. While the Leafs can be a playoff team, I think its safe to say that they are not a Stanley Cup contender at this point. The next couple of months will be very interesting in Leafland.

* New York media types calling for the Giants to move Eli Manning are morons. I'll take a two-time Super Bowl Champion any day. 

* At the end of the day, the AFC North may be the most overrated division in the NFL. Pittsburgh looked awful against New Orleans and Baltimore blew a game at home against San Diego. Cincinnati held on for dear life against Tampa Bay and the Browns are fortunate to be 7-5. 

* Was so happy to see Colt McCoy get a shot in Washington. He threw for close to 400 yards on Sunday.  

* Speaking of Washington, you have to wonder if RG III will ever get back to what he was his rookie year. You have to wonder if the decline in his play is related to his knee injury or is it a result of him being too much of a celebrity. Rumors are that the Redskins would take a 5th or 6th round draft pick for RG III. 

* The Browns-Bills game on Sunday was one of the worst games I've seen in a long while. By the way, for these Blue Cheese breath morons here in Western New York, the Bills are not a playoff team and if they get in they will be knocked out in the first game which is the same thing I said about the Browns.

* Kudos to Jerry Sullivan for pointing out to the Louie Lackawannas of the world that it's nice to be happy about being in the hunt but the Bills offense is putrid and they are not a legitimate playoff team. 

* It will be interesting to see how the Bills top defensive line plays next week against Peyton Manning and the Broncos in Denver.

* The arbitrator's decision to overturn Ray Rice's indefinite suspension should not be a surprise to anyone. The fact is that Commissioner Roger Goodell suspended Ray Rice twice for the same offense. In most labor-management situations that is a no-no. Yet, had to hear people being interviewed in bars saying that the arbitrator's decision sends the message that domestic violence is not a big deal. Really?? The message that the decision sends is that the National Football League, in working with the NFL Players Association, needs to set up a process on how to handle such offenses. Goodell cannot be the judge and jury.

* The Toronto Blue Jays made a nice move in acquiring Josh Donaldson for Brett Lawrie and 3 prospects. Lawrie has a history of being injury prone and Donaldson adds more punch to a lineup that already features Edwin Encarnacion and Jose Bautista. Add the acquisition of Russell Martin and the Blue Jays will have a formidable experienced lineup in 2015. Don't be surprised if they make some additional moves during the Winter Meetings. 

* Melky Cabrera is as good as gone in Toronto. Will be interesting to see where the Melkman ends up. 

* Meanwhile Brian Cashman is preparing to repel down a building in Connecticut.  

* Any reason why Willie Randolph has not been hired by the Yankees to be their first base and infield coach?

* In 2009, the Yankees infield was Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter, Robinson Cano and Mark Teixiera. All were considered All-Stars. In 2015 it will be ? at third base, ? at shortstop, ? at second base and lucky if you get 125 games from Teixiera at first base. Meanwhile, Cashman is repelling down a building with Bobby Valelntine.

* It's being reported that the Yankees are interested in lefty reliever Andrew Miller. There is plenty of speculation as to what the Yankees are doing by going after Miller. Are they looking to build a back end bullpen that would consist of Miller, David Robertson, Dellin Betances and Justin Wilson? Are they looking to send a message to Robertson that they will move on without him? I simply don't understand why there should be any question about re-signing Robertson. This home-grown 30 year old, who has had one of the best earned run averages of any reliever since 2009, is looking for a four year deal and the Yankees are only willing to give him a three year deal. It's not about the money, it's about the term. This whole situation sounds like the Cano scenario from last year. Why do the Yankees have a hard time giving home grown players long term contracts but have no problem giving long term contracts to free agents such as Jacoby Ellsbury and Brian McCann? And let's not forget the guaranteed three year contract they gave to 36 year old Carlos Beltran.

* The NFL rule change that limits what a defensive back can do five yards beyond the line of scrimmage is a big joke. It is also inconsistently called.  

* Would love to see Missouri knock off Alabama in the SEC Championship Game. If that should happen it could be possible that no team from the SEC makes the playoffs.

*Do you remember when Brian Burke said that he felt the Toronto market would be too tough for a rookie coach and that is why he hired Randy Carlyle over Dallas Eakins? Well, now some NHL gasbags are saying that Edmonton may have made a mistake by hiring Eakins. Their rationale is that it would have made more sense for Eakins to serve as an NHL assistant coach before taking on a head coaching job in the NHL. I guess Brian Burke was right even though certain members of the media would never admit it. 

* Gotta love Sportstime Ohio talk show host Bruce Drennan. After the Browns loss to the Bills on Sunday, Drennan said that the worst thing about the loss was that the Bills stink!! That's why I love the guy!!

* The Packers-Patriots game was billed as a Super Bowl preview. Somehow, I don't see it. I'm not a big fan but with a renewed running game, Denver will be a tough team to beat in the playoffs. I'm really impressed with their young running back C.J. Anderson and he could be a difference maker in the post season. 

* It seems to be a foregone conclusion that Jim Harbaugh will be gone from San Francisco. Big rumor has him either going to Oakland or the Jets. But wouldn't it be great if he went back to where his career started in Chicago?

* And finally, does anyone know whatever happened to Everrett Golson??

Tuesday's Thoughts

While thinking about how much turkey I'm going to eat on Thursday, here is what's on my mind this morning:

* Sunday's Browns game had me screaming at the television set for most of it. The 26-24 victory over the Atlanta Falcons kept their playoff hopes alive but there are some troubling signs to consider. Brian Hoyer's game was abysmal. Three interceptions with the worst being in the end zone which could have extended the lead and forced to Falcons to get more than a field goal. I'm sounding like a broken record but my biggest concern is that the Browns are still going to need a legitimate playoff type quarterback. They don't have one on the current roster and that includes Johnny Manziel. 

* I'm also concerned with the coaching staff. Time management is an issue and it was evident at the end of the first half as they left time outs on the table when they should have used one after Josh Gordon's huge catch. At the end of the game, instead of using their last time out, Hoyer could have spiked the ball and then used the time out before the field goal attempt. Speaking of field goal attempt, going for a 60 yarder with Devin Hester back there was dumb. It was especially dumb in that Billy Cundiff has the worst field goal percentage outside the 50 yard line in all of the NFL. Mike Pettine needs to be smarter. 

* While many in the Cleveland media praise Offensive Coordinator Kyle Shanahan, I'm not as impressed. Not being able to capitalize on turnovers for touchdowns will eventually come back to haunt the Browns. This has been a problem all season long. I also have to call into question the play that was called which led to Hoyer's interception in the end zone. It was first and goal from the five yard line so there was no need to throw especially the way Isiah Crowell was running inside the red zone. 

* Kudos to the rookie running backs, Crowell & Terrence West, as they showed why the Browns didn't need the disgruntled Ben Tate. What else can you say about Josh Gordon. This guy is unreal and would have had more yardage if Hoyer was on target. The Browns defense also made plays, particularly Paul Kruger, Joe Haden and Craig Robertson.  

* The Maple Leafs responded to the media-created controversy by defeating the Detroit Red Wings 4-1. The Leafs really turned it up in the third period and everything got started with Tyler Bozak's shorthanded goal that gave the Leafs 2-1 lead and they never looked back.  Once again, the Peter Holland - Mike Santorelli - Leo Komorov line was a factor as Holland and Komorov each scored and they provided a strong forecheck inside the Detroit zone. Holland's goal was a beauty. 

* Roman Polak will be out for four weeks due to a knee sprain that was suffered as a result of a collision with the Wings Tomas Tatar. It could have been worse but the Leafs will have to weather the storm while Polak is out.

* The usual Toronto media critics who are regularly all over Jake Gardiner had nothing to say after the Red Wing game. The kid had a solid game as did Morgan Reilly but I didn't hear any of the TO gasbags giving any praise. 

* Really sad to hear about the passing of Pat Quinn. As a Leaf fan, Quinn's teams in the late 90s early 2000s were playoff contenders and made the Eastern Conference finals twice. The Big Irishman will be missed. Every time I hear the song, The Mighty Quinn, I always think of him. God bless you, Pat.

* Had to laugh hearing Milan Lucic whine like a baby after he was knocked down with one punch by the Blue Jackets' Dalton Prout. If you watch the replay, Lucic initiated the whole thing by going at Prout. If he didn't want to fight then why did he go at Prout. Lucic should have shut his mouth and if he feels so inclined take care of things the next time the Bruins play Columbus. 

* Can't wait to hear more on this story involving Johnny Manziel and the altercation that took place early Saturday morning. Manziel's agent issued a statement which conflicts with initial reports so it remains to be seen what else comes out. Bottom line: Johnny Football needs to grow up. This is why I did not want the Browns to draft him. 

* The Boston Red Sox made a big splash with the signings of Hanley Ramirez and Pablo Sandoval. They have created a glut of bats which could result in a trade for a frontline pitcher. Think: Cole Hamels. 

* Meanwhile, Brian Cashman is getting ready to repel down a building in Connecticut with Bobby Valentine. 

* Why not bring Willie Randolph back as infield and first base coach? The guy is a Yankee through and through and knows the game. By the way if you want a nice gift for a Yankee fan, get Randolph's book "The Yankee Way". It's a great read!!

* Solomon Wilcots made a jerk out of himself on the Bills-Jets broadcast. Spero Dedes was talking about the catch that Odell Beckham Jr. made on Sunday night when Solomon said, "everyone will know your name, Ladell Beckham Jr. " And this guy gets paid to do this. 

* The new Hockey Night In Canada broadcast is terrible. Too many know-it-all talking heads and the new host, George Stroumboulopoulus, is annoying.  

* Finally, Happy Thanksgiving to everyone here in the U.S.

Salute To The Toronto Media

Many will tell you that the New York media is the worst. But as bad as it can be (and I read the NY dailies every day), the Toronto media covering the Maple Leafs is the worst. The contrived controversy over the Leafs not saluting the fans after their 5-2 win over Tampa Bay is the biggest joke in the sports world and is a disgrace to Canada's largest city. As a long time Leafs fan, I could careless whether they go to center ice and raise their sticks or not.

The media can say that they didn't create this story but they poured gasoline on it. In my mind, those in the media who have their shorts in a knot over this, are masking their disgust for certain players on this team. The classic example is Jeff O'Neill. He has been slamming Phil Kessel and Dion Phaneuf since he's been on the radio. Well, yesterday his venom spewed dramatically as he proclaimed that he's talked to people in the NHL who have said that no team can be successful if Kessel and Phaneuf are your leaders. As a former player he should be ashamed of himself. He criticized Phaneuf because he should have been truthful and said that they were pissed about the jersey throwing and the booing. Jeff, why don't you be truthful. Why don't you say that you are jealous you didn't make the money that these players are making. Why don't you be truthful O'Neill and tell us who these people in the NHL are who have told you that Phaneuf and Kessel are losers. Oh, that's right you are a big time journalist so you won't divulge your sources. You are a joke, O'Neill. 

His partner, Brian Hayes, also got in on the act. I was shocked that he decided to make this such a big deal when it was total nonsense. Maybe the ratings on his show are slipping. But he sounded like a complete moron. I have listened to Leafs Lunch for a long time. I am done until Bitter Beer-Face O'Neill is removed. 

The print media also has it share of muckrakers. Top on the list are Steve Simmons and DaveFeschuk. Simmons whines that these players don't understand the market. What do you mean Steve? The Toronto market is so fragile that the fan base needs to be cajoled and patronized? C'mon Steve. All I want are wins, a playoff berth and some success in the playoffs. I could give a damn about the salute. The problem with Simmons and Feschuk is that they dislike the fact that Kessel doesn't like dealing with the media and Phaneuf is filled with cliche's. 

The other problem that these 2 so-called sports journalists have is that they can't stand Brian Burke. Burkie brought both Phaneuf and Kessel to Toronto so they are considered "Burke's Guys". Yesterday Burkie was on TSN's Drive Time with Dave Naylor. Simmons was Naylor's co-host but during the Burke interview Simmons was no where to be found. He re-appeared when Brendan Shanahan appeared on the next segment. During Naylor's interview, Burke said that he wouldn't expect members of the media to be cheerleaders for the team. But, he did say that in every market their are some media members whose sole mission is to cause controversy. That's where Feschuk and Simmons fit in. 

I saw one survey that showed 28% of fans were upset by the Leafs for not saluting. The remainder were not upset or could careless. But, certain members of the Toronto media want to keep this fire going. So to Hayes, O'Neill, Simmons & Feschuk here is my salute to you:

Tuesday's Thoughts

While beginning my four month bitch about the cold and snow, here's what is on my mind this morning:

* What a sports weekend. Let's first start with my favorite hockey team: the Toronto Maple Leafs. After a great game against the Boston Bruins, the Leafs dropped back to back games on the weekend. Friday they dropped a 2-1 decision to the Pittsburgh Penguins at the ACC. The Leafs didn't play great but they certainly had a chance to get a point. But the 6-2 loss to the lowly Buffalo Sabres left many Leaf fans shaking their heads. The Leafs were awful in all aspects of the game and it's hard to understand. How can a team play so well against the Bruins and be embarrassed by Buffalo. 

* Remember the controversy caused when Joffrey Lupul said it was frustrating playing at home because the ACC crowd was too quiet? Well in Buffalo on Saturday, there were more Leaf fans in the First Niagara Center than Sabre fans. Not only were there more Leaf fans but they were loud and proud! So much for the crowd getting the team going. If the Leafs played with as much passion as the Leaf fans who go to Buffalo to watch them play, their record in Buffalo would not be 1-14-1 in their last 16 games at First Niagara Center. 

* There has been plenty of questions, both inside and outside the organization, about the first line being weak defensively. If that is the case, why not break them up? Prior to Joffrey Lupul being injured, Randy Carlyle did just that. After the Lupul injury, Carlyle had Daniel Winnick on the line with Phil Kessel and Nazem Kadri. But, when Carlyle needed some offense he went back to Tyler Bozak and James van Reimsdyk teaming up with Kessel. So what do you want Randy??  

* The furor that was caused by Phil Kessel refusing to speak to the media after Saturday's debacle in Buffalo is a joke on many levels. First, Kessel was obviously pissed at being embarrassed by the worst team in the NHL. But, you see he can't win. Kessel has been criticized for showing no emotion and being a me-first player. But when he shows emotion he's a dirt bag because he wouldn't talk to the media. Leading the media pity party was TSN Leaf beat reporter Jonas Siegel. Siegel believes that Kessel owes it to the fans to speak to the media. Really Jonas?? I could careless if Kessel speaks to you ever again. What I also found interesting that Siegel said that he covers for the players. I want to know, what are you covering up Siegel?? I don't buy that for a minute. 

* Secondly, there are members of the Toronto media who will never warm up to Phil Kessel. I remember a couple of years before he re-signed with the Leafs, some media types saying that Kessel will leave Toronto when he became a free agent so the Leafs should trade him to get something before they lost him and got nothing. You see, according to these geniuses, Kessel didn't like the pressure of playing in Toronto and would want to go back to the U.S. Well, I guess they were wrong as Kessel has expressed numerous times about how he loves playing in Toronto.  

* I wonder how many members of the Washington media are ready to run Alex Ovechkin out of town because he isn't a good two-way player. In fact, I would make the argument that Kessel is a better all around player than Ovechkin. I am sick and tired of the Kessel bashing by the Toronto media. He is Toronto's best player. The challenge for Brendan Shanahan is to surround him with players who can compliment his talent. Is he a great two-way player? No he is not. But he is their most talented player and I'm not expecting him to be Patrice Bergeron. Kessel is not this team's problem. 

* If you want to look at a problem, how about Mimico's own David Clarkson. I was happy when the Leafs signed him but he has been a major disappointment. He does not deserve to be on the second power play unit and I question as to whether or not he shouldn't be on the fourth line. His penalty in Buffalo on Saturday killed the momentum that the Leafs had achieved and led to a Sabres power play goal. The guy should not be up on the second line with Kadri. He actually played his best when he was with Bozak and JVR. 

* Its to the point where I honestly believe that it is in Jake Gardiner's best interest to be traded. Heaven help him if he makes a bad play that leads to a goal but when Cody Franson swan dives, misses the puck and allows the Sabre forward to come out in front of the net which leads to a Buffalo goal, you don't hear a word about it. Maybe what all of the Toronto media would like to see is Kessel, Gardiner, and Phaneuf traded for draft picks so we can build through the draft. Boy, wouldn't that be great!!

* Funny how the Toronto media criticizes Kessel for being a terrible interview but goes bonkers when he tells them to get away. Good for Phil. 

* By the way, for a guy who the media believes is out of shape, Phil Kessel has not missed a game in the 5 1/2 seasons he has played for the Leafs.

* Boy, I miss Brian Burke.

* The Cleveland Browns could not stand prosperity as they went from first to last place after their 23-7 loss to the Houston Texans at home. I really lay the blame for this loss on the coaching staff. Why would you not blitz a quarterback who was making his first start in four years? Why wouldn't you have put eight men in the box to stop the run and force Ryan Mallett to make plays? Why would you not play Ben Tate who was going up against his former team? Why would Terrence West, your leading rusher the last two games, only get five carries?? Mike Pettine and his staff were completely out-coached. 

* I still have my doubts on Brian Hoyer being the guy to lead the Browns to the promise land. The problem is I don't believe Johnny Manziel is the answer either. If I'm right, the Browns will still be looking for a quarterback in 2016. 

* Browns General Manager Ray Farmer needs to be held accountable as both of his first round picks: Manziel and Justin Gilbert have not contributed at all. Cleveland cannot afford first round picks not having an immediate impact. I wonder if Ray watched Zach Mettenberger last night. Mettenberger was Tennessee's sixth round pick in the 2014 Draft and has had more of an impact that Johnny Football.

* Remember when all the so-called media experts pronounced the end of the New England Patriots? Well, they have won six in a row including Sunday night's domination of the Indianapolis Colts. Right now they are the best team in the AFC and maybe in the entire NFL. 

* It might be time to take the Kansas City Chiefs and the Arizona Cardinals seriously. I have been a believer of the Cardinals as they shutdown the Detroit Lions Sunday. It will be interesting to see how they perform against Seattle this week. Kansas City's victory over the Seahawks is starting to get me to take notice.  The Chiefs are not a great team but they have a great running back, an efficient quarterback and a very good defense. They should make the playoffs once again.

* I wonder if Packers head coach Mike McCarthy realizes that he doesn't need to run up the score to make the final four in the NFL. It's difficult to explain why McCarthy has left Aaron Rodgers late in games against the Bears and the Eagles. I wonder what he would think if some frustrated defensive player took a big hit against Rodgers putting him out for awhile.

* A month ago, Notre Dame was a possible final four contender and Everrett Golson was a potential Heisman candidate. Well, ever since their heart breaking loss to Florida State the bottom has fallen out for the Irish and for Golson. Golson has been a turnover machine and Notre Dame has lost two in a row, the last defeat at the hands of Northwestern at South Bend. At this rate, Notre Dame may be looking at the Poulan Weedwacker Bowl. 

* Yankee General Manager Brian Cashman wants all Yankee fans to be excited because he re-signed Chris Young and acquired left-handed reliever Justin Wilson for Francisco Cervelli. Young being the Yankees fourth outfielder really excites me when it's a good bet that he may start close to 100 games as a result of the injury prone Brett Gardner, Jacoby Ellsbury and Carlos Beltran. Young couldn't start for the Mets. As for Wilson, Cashman says that the left-hander is a part of building a deep bullpen even though Wilson had an ERA over 4. 

* While Cashman talks about building a deep bullpen, there is a chance he will let the team's closer David Robertson leave via free agency. I would not be surprised if Robertson is this year's Robinson Cano.

* While Cashman fiddles, the Blue Jays signed Russell Martin and are reportedly interested in Jon Lester and Andrew Miller. The Red Sox are courting World Series star Pablo Sandoval. If these teams load up, you can be looking at another playoff-less October in 2015 for the Bronx Bombers.

* While the New York media continues to speculate whether Giants head coach Tom Coughlin will be shown the door at the end of the season, the real focus should be on their general manager Jerry Reese. Reese has done a terrible job in drafting and Coughlin may pay the price. The other casualty of Reese's ineptitude is Eli Manning.

* It's looking like Bills head coach Doug Marrone may be on the hot seat after his team's 22-9 loss to the Miami Dolphins last Thursday. While Marrone deserves to be wondering about his job, GM Doug Whaley also deserves to be looked at critically. Whaley believed so much in EJ Manuel that he traded away his first round draft pick in 2015 to obtain Sammy Watkins. I love Watkins but what good is it to have him if no one can get him the ball. The Bills could have stayed at number eight and selected Mike Evans. If Marrone has to go the same could be said for Whaley. Under Ralph Wilson, the Bills were criticized for not bringing in top coaches and general managers to run football operations. If Terry Pegula wants to make a mark on this franchise he needs to bring in quality football people to run his team.

* And finally, thoughts and prayers with hockey great Gordie Howe and his family.

Leafs Redeem Themselves With 6-1 Win Over Boston

In October the Toronto Maple Leafs were embarrassed on their home ice in a 4-1 defeat at the hands of the Boston Bruins. The loss resulted in a players only meeting which has led to a 6-1-1 record that was topped off by last night's convincing 6-1 win over the Boston Bruins. Without a doubt the Leafs responded not only offensively but defensively.

Not much more you can say about Phil Kessel other than he is a world class goal scorer who the Leafs have not had on the wing since Lanny McDonald. Hopefully this puts to bed the nonsense about Kessel's off season work habits. The bottom line is that Kessel is their best player whether he skates 10 times in the summer or 100 times in the summer. The chemistry of the first line is outstanding and one of the most dangerous in the NHL.

But the line that seems to be the biggest surprise and is giving an identity to this Leaf team is the Mike Santorelli, Peter Holland, Leo Komorov line. When the Leafs brought back Komorov many were critical of the team for the contract given to the hard-hitting Finn. But so far this season, it is clear that it has been money well spent as Komorov has continued his aggressive fore-checking style, killing penalties and chipping in offensively. Mike Santorelli was brought in to do exactly what he is doing: taking the body, being defensively responsible, taking face-offs when needed and providing some offense. Peter Holland has shown so far that if given the opportunity he can be a solid all-around player. The additional ice time has given the former first rounder a chance to show his offensive ability and he has proven to be a good penalty killer. It seems pretty clear that these three have developed a great chemistry.

What really impressed me last night was how well the Leafs played inside their own zone. Their breakouts were very efficient and they weren't running around chasing the Bruins. The forwards did a nice job in back checking and Jonathan Bernier came up with big saves when he needed to. I thought last night Stephane Robidas played his best game as a Maple Leaf and the two youngsters, Jake Gardiner and Morgan Reilly, looked very comfortable and used their skating ability to move the puck out of their zone and set up offensive chances. Both of them have been taken to task for their play but if last night is any indication they have gotten the message.

I have been critical of Randy Carlyle but I give him credit for giving the fourth liners more ice time in the third period, including power play time, when the game was in hand. Josh Leivo seems to be fitting in well with Richard Panik and Trevor Smith and Carlyle needs to continue to give this unit reasonable ice time.

The score was indicative of the complete domination by the Leafs. Their special teams out-performed the Bruins as the Leafs were 3 for 3 on the power play and they killed all three Bruin power plays. Without a doubt, this was their best game of the season. The key is to continue this type of play. It doesn't mean that they will continue to win games by five goals. But what it does mean is that they will be a tough team to play against which would be a far cry from last year's team.

Next up is Pittsburgh on Friday night at the ACC and the way I see it, the Leafs have another score to settle with one of the other Eastern Conference powers.

Will The Leafs Compete Tonight?

The last time the Boston Bruins were at the Air Canada Center they dominated the home team by a score of 4-1. The score doesn't really indicate how badly the Leafs were outplayed as they were booed off the ice. What was disturbing was their total lack of effort.

Since that game the Leafs are 5-1-1. While they have had a propensity to give up the first goal, their energy level has been ratcheted up immensely. During these seven games they have lost Joffrey Lupul and Daniel Winnik but they have been able to persevere. Peter Holland has been elevated to the third line with Mike Santorelli and Leo Komorov and he is showing why many believe that he can be a top 6 forward. The Leafs also seem to be getting secondary scoring to compliment the big line of Phil Kessel, James van Reimsdyk and Tyler Bozak. 

The Leafs seem to be playing a more gritty game led by the likes of Santorelli, Komorov and guys like Sam Carrick. Richard Panik seems to be settling in and showing why Steve Yzerman didn't want to part with him. The Leafs will need all four lines to use their speed and be aggressive on the forecheck. And it goes without saying that they need to be defensively responsible in their own end.

While it is still very early in the season, tonight's game is a good measuring stick for this Leaf team. No one believes that Toronto is a legitimate Stanley Cup contender but if they are going to be a playoff team then the Leafs need to have a better effort against one of the top teams in the league. A win would be great but I'm looking for a an effort worthy of a team who desperately wants to make the playoffs. The Bruins have been the big bully who kicks sand in the Leafs face. It's time for the Leafs to take a stand. The game will be nationally televised in the U.S. on NBC Sports Network's Rivalry Night. Puck drop is at 8 pm.

Tuesday's Thoughts

While thinking it might be a good time to start my snow blower up, here is what's on my mind this morning:

* The Toronto Maple Leafs completed a weekend sweep on Sunday by defeating the Ottawa Senators 5-3 after winning 5-4 on Saturday against the New York Rangers. In both games, the Leafs gave up the first goal but were able to prevail. What was really hopeful was that the Leafs were able to get secondary scoring from the likes of Peter Holland, Leo Komorov, Mike Santorelli and Josh Leivo. Holland has 3 goals and 2 assists since being moved up to the third line. Anyone who has read this blog knows that I have been advocating more ice time for Holland. This kid can be a contributor in the top nine of the Maple Leafs and he has shown that every time he has been given the opportunity. 

* Wednesday night the Leafs take on the Boston Bruins. If you remember the Bruins dominated the Leafs on a Saturday night in Toronto as they came away with a 4-1 win. The score was not indicative of how widely the Bruins dominated the game. After Wednesday, the Leafs take on the Penguins Friday night. Pittsburgh also dominated the Leafs on a Saturday night at home. It will be interesting to see if the Leafs are more competitive in these two games than they were in October. 

* Had the opportunity to be at the Sabres-Penguins game on Saturday in Buffalo. I only stayed for the first period as the game was a joke. It was like a Jr. A team playing a pee wee team. Can't believe Sabres season ticket holders are very happy with the entertainment value they are being provided by St. Pegula's team. 

* Great article by Bucky Gleason in the Buffalo News about Sabres fans hoping and praying for Connor McDavid. Gleason pointed out that the Sabres chances to get the number one overall pick was 20%. More importantly, he correctly stated that one player is not going to turn things around and that the Sabres will need more than McDavid. Pittsburgh took off not only with Sidney Crosby. They also had Evgeni Malkin, Jordan Staal, and Kris Letang to name a few. 

* Well, they are drawing me back in. I have been fighting not to jump on the bandwagon. I've been burned too many times. But Thursday night's 24-3 victory at Cincinnati has me getting ready to jump on the Cleveland Browns bandwagon. With a stout defense and the rediscovery of their ground game, the Browns came out victorious in a game that I had very little faith in their ability to win. Brian Hoyer played an efficient game and helped to ease my doubts about his ability to lead this team. The upcoming game Sunday against Houston is one that they should win but it won't be easy. The Browns don't have the luxury to take a game off if they want to maintain the top spot in the AFC North. 

* Watched all of the Bills-Chiefs game on Sunday and it was plain and simple: the Bills gave the game away. Sure there was the McKelvin fumble and Dixon fumbling out of the end zone which hurt the Bills. But, they were in the red zone twice and had to settle for two field goals. In the one series, Kyle Orton overthrew two open receivers in the end zone. The defense, which played well for the most part, gave up a 39 yard touchdown run to Jamaal Charles on a fourth and one play. If the Bills falter, this will be the game they look back on as the one they let slip away. 

* Things are blowing up in Chicagoland as the Bears were embarrassed by their bitter rivals, the Green Bay Packers, Sunday night on national television. I really believe that Marc Trestman is in over his head. Of course, the guy who really should be held accountable is GM Phil Emery. 

* How pathetic is the NFC South that New Orleans leads the division with a 4-5 record. Atlanta at 3-6 is still in the race. 

* What a tough break for Carson Palmer and the Arizona Cardinals as Palmer is done for the year with a torn ACL. It will be interesting to see if Bruce Arians is able to keep things going with Drew Stanton as their QB. 

* Very happy for Rex Ryan as his NY Jets pulled off a huge upset over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Everyone believed the Steelers would roll over the hapless Jets but Ryan & Company dialed a game plan up which led to a victory. Just goes to show you: "on any given Sunday".

* The recent information that has come out pertaining to Alex Rodriguez is hard to believe. What really annoys me is that it is beyond a reasonable doubt that ARod has lied about his use of performance enhancing drugs. Would it not have been better for him to negotiate a deal in 2013 as opposed to the charade that we all witnessed? The Yankees have a lot of issues to resolve in 2015 and it was hoped that ARod would be a part of the solution. However, I think it is clear that the media circus will be back as a result of this latest revelation that ARod admitted to the Feds that he bought PEDs from Anthony Bosch in exchange for immunity from any prosecution.

* Rumors flying around that the Yankees may be interested in Elvis Andrus and Alexi Ramirez to play shortstop next year. The rumors never indicate who the Yanks would have to give up but Andrus is only 26 years old while Ramirez is 33 years old. I would take either over Stephen Drew. The one draw back on Andrus is that he will just be starting an eight year contract.

* Everrett Golson took himself out of any Heisman thoughts with his terrible performance Saturday against Arizona State. It also took his Notre Dame football team out of any consideration for the Final Four. 

* I must admit I was never a big Mark Sanchez fan but I did think he got a raw deal in New York. That's why it's nice to seem him bounce back in Philadelphia. Only 28 years old, Sanchez could be the Eagles franchise quarterback as he put on a fine performance last night against Carolina. If there needs to be another reason why John Idzik should be fired as Jets GM, it's watching Sanchez possibly leading Philadelphia deep into the playoffs.

* And finally, GR Gasbag Howard "I never met a donut I didn't like" Simon was equating Marcel Dareus with Warren Sapp. While Dareus may have the same stats as Sapp did at this point in both of their careers, the key will be if Dareus can stay out of trouble long enough to even think about the hall of fame. It's guys like Simon and the rest of the GR Gasbags who perpetuate the unrealistic perceptions of Buffalo's professional athletes.

Tuesday's Thoughts

While wondering who will win a World Series first, the Yankees or the Cubs, here is what's on my mind this morning:

* Well, the Cleveland Browns once again won a game yet somehow many weren't overly excited. You see, as against the winless Oakland Raiders last week, the Browns struggled to win 22-17 over the 1-7 Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While throwing for 300 yards, Brian Hoyer still had enough moments to make one wonder if he is the quarterback of the future. Once again the Browns sputtered inside the red zone in the first half. These last eight games of the season will be important for this franchise to determine if Hoyer is the guy. If he's not, then there is a decision that will have to be made: go with Johnny Manziel or draft another quarterback.

* Really like the undrafted wide receiver from Abilene Christian, Taylor Gabriel. He is a part of a receiving corp that has stepped up in the absence of Josh Gordon. I really think they should try this kid on kick and punt returns.

* With the performances of rookie wide receivers Mike Evans, Odell Beckham and Sammy Watkins, I don't know what Browns GM Ray Farmer was thinking in passing up on any of them.

* Thursday night's game against Cincinnati may well decide the direction of this season for the Browns. With the bunched up AFC North and wild card teams, the Browns will need as many wins as possible. A loss would not be devastating but it will make the road to the playoffs all that much harder. 

* The Toronto Maple Leafs begin a four game stretch tonight against the Arizona Coyotes where they will play 3 out of the next 4 on the road. It will be imperative that the Leafs continue their recent play in this 4 game stretch. 

* It is really tiring to hear the constant goaltending debate both in the media and in Leaf Nation. I think it is clear that Leaf management considers Jonathan Bernier the number one goalie. If both Bernier and James Reimer play well, it only benefits the team. In spite of Reimer's great performance against Chicago, I would expect Bernier to play 3 of the 4 games with Reimer playing Sunday against the Ottawa Senators in the back end of a back-to-back weekend. Reimer has a very good record against the Sens. 

* One has to wonder what is going on with the San Francisco 49ers and the Seattle Seahawks. The 49ers lost to the St. Louis Rams on Sunday and the rumors are really heating up about the future of Head Coach Jim Harbaugh. The most popular rumor has him going to his alma mater, Michigan. But keep an eye on the situation in Chicago where questions are being asked about Marc Trestman. The Seahawks held on to defeat the winless Oakland Raiders. Things were so bad that the 12th Man booed the World Champs off the field at halftime. There seems to be plenty of internal issues in that locker room and one wonders if Pete Carroll is the right guy to deal with the situation. 

* Kudos to Mark Sanchez for a nice game filling in for the injured Nick Foles in Philadelphia's 31-21 win over the Houston Texans. Foles will be out 6 to 8 weeks, so Sanchez will have an excellent opportunity to further prove what a moron NY Jets General Manager John Idzik is. It was Idzik who drafted Geno Smith and basically pushed Sanchez out of New York. 

* The New England Patriots continue their winning ways by dominating the Denver Broncos 43-21. The Patriots own the best record in the AFC, so much for the demise of Belichek and Brady. 

* Really felt bad for Ole Miss on Saturday as they lost their star receiver with a broken leg and lost the game against Auburn all on the same play.  

* I'm amazed at the amount of hate being directed at Knicks head honcho Phil Jackson. Funny how I don't remember hearing anything when he was coaching the Bulls and Lakers. By the way, I think Derek Fisher is going to make a good NBA coach. 

* If the Yankees don't re-sign David Robertson, Brian Cashman is a bigger idiot than I thought. Robertson replaced the greatest closer in the game and did an excellent job. To allow him to leave and place the closing role on Dellin Betances is a huge mistake but what do you expect from a GM who stockpiles past their prime players. 

* Reports out of New York also indicate that the Boy Genius Cashman is considering bringing back Stephen Drew to play shortstop. What a joke!!

* The Alex Rodriguez story continues as it is being reported that A-Rod paid his cousin, Yuri Sucart, $1,000,000 million dollars for his silence about A-Rod's PED use. Apparently, A-Rod is a key witness in the government's case against Sucart and Anthony Bosch.

* Monday the Chicago Cubs announced the hiring of Joe Maddon as their manager. This was a great move by Theo Epstein as the Cubs and their young stars appear to be ready to be contenders in the National League Central Division. The Cubs are being mentioned as being big-time players in this year's free agent market with Jon Lester and Max Scherzer being on their shopping list. Maddon should be the right guy to bring playoff dreams to the North Side.

* Wrigley Field is undergoing renovations so the Cubs held the Maddon press conference at the iconic Cubby Bear Lounge which is across the street from Wrigley. At the end of the press conference, Maddon called on a bartender to give everyone a shot and a beer and that it was on him. My kind of guy!!

* This past Friday was Halloween and the Western New York Sport's Leader, WGR 550, had a Candy Draft on Stupe & the Bulldog Show. Not that anything else was going on in the world of sports. Oops, I forgot the Bills had a bye so the NFL didn't exist this past weekend.

* And finally, whatever happened to The Coach, Chuck Dickerson.

Leafs Answer The Bell, Defeat Hawks 3-2

The Toronto Maple Leafs answered the bell with a rousing 3-2 win over Chicago on a Saturday night at the Air Canada Center. Both Chicago goals were on the power play and James Reimer stoned the Hawks in the third period stopping 26 shots. These weren't all ordinary saves, there were several game saving stops and was by far Reimer's best game of the season.

For the first two periods, the Leafs had the edge in 5 on 5 play without a doubt. Randy Carlyle decided to move Peter Holland to the third line and he responded with the game winning goal and his aggressive fore-check set up James van Reimsdyk's goal. Leo Komorov continues to show why he is an asset to this club as his huge hit on Johnny Oduya set up the Holland goal. 

The Leafs made the right move bringing up Sam Carrick from the Marlies. I would have loved to see the fourth line play a little more and hopefully they will during the upcoming road trip. Carlyle has to be happy with the play of Daniel Winnik on the Kessel-Kadri line. It seems that playing with Kessel has really put a charge into Kadri's game. I don't see how Carlyle can separate those two.

There were many who were questioning this Leaf team heading into last night's contest. Big deal that they beat Buffalo, the critics would say. Columbus is injury-riddled so not much you can say about Friday night's win. Saturday night was going to be a true test and the Leafs responded well. Is this team a lock to make the playoffs? No, but it certainly can compete with any team in the league if it utilizes its speed, is aggressive on the forecheck and takes the body when necessary. They did all of that last night and that is why their performances against Boston and Pittsburgh was so alarming.

The Leafs answered the bell and made a statement that they can be a tough team to play against. They still need to get some consistent secondary scoring. The power play needs to start clicking and there needs to be a consistent commitment to defensive zone coverage. But, the Leafs have showed us that they have what it takes to be a playoff team and they don't have the luxury to take a night off.

Saturday A Statement Game For Leafs?

The Toronto Maple Leafs won their second game in a row with a solid 4-1 victory over the injury riddled Columbus Blue Jackets. The night began with the news that Joffrey Lupul has a broken bone in his hand and will be out of action for an undetermined amount of time. As a result, the Leafs top two lines had to be altered with Daniel Winnik teamed up with Nazem Kadri and Phil Kessel and David Clarkson matched up with Tyler Bozak and James van Reimsdyk. The restructured top two lines accounted for all four of the Leaf goals letting all Leaf fans breathe a sigh of relief.

Winnik did not look out of place on the top line, in fact he cleared space for his line mates and was rewarded with a goal late in the third period. Once again, Phil Kessel led the way with a goal and two assists which included a pretty pass to Kadri. The young center seems to be benefiting from being paired up with Kessel and hopefully this will continue. The constant bashing that Kessel gets from certain members of the media and the fan base because he only skated 10 times during the summer needs to end once and for all. The bottom line is that Kessel makes his line mates better. Look what he has done with Tyler Bozak and now it appears Kadri may be the next beneficiary.

Jonathan Bernier played very well last night and appears to have shaken off the early rust that he had in the first couple of his starts in goal. The Leaf defense played well last night. Morgan Reilly continues to grow and it seems that Roman Polak makes for a nice defense partner for him. It looked like Jake Gardiner played a much more simpler game last night and as a result was sound defensively.

The fourth line had one shift in the third period and that resulted in a foolish Matt Frattin penalty that led to a power play goal for Columbus. I didn't have a problem with the Leafs re-acquiring Frattin, even though I like Jerry D'Amigo's game. But Frattin has been awful since the pre-season and has not shown any signs of being a solid contributor for this team. It is unfortunate for his line mates, Peter Holland and Carter Ashton. Ashton needs to get a fair shot with the Leafs so they can determine where this kid stands in this organization. As for Holland, I still believe that this kid can be a solid possible top-6 forward with the Leafs. He set up the Clarkson goal with a nice pass to Dion Phaneuf. It is encouraging that Randy Carlyle is giving Holland power play time but he needs to get more minutes. If Frattin continues to be a liability then Leaf management needs to make a decision and bring up someone like Josh Leivo. As an aside, the Komorov-Santorelli-Panik line had a strong game and Komorov has been a difference maker on the PK along with Winnik.

Tonight the Leafs step up in weight class as they take on the Chicago Black Hawks at the ACC. In home meetings against Pittsburgh, Detroit and Boston, the Leafs were completely out played and out hustled. The games were brutal to watch. Last season, the Leafs had a huge 7-3 win against the Black Hawks at home where Peter Holland led the way with 2 goals. The Leafs have something to prove tonight to their fans and to themselves. A lackluster performance tonight will rewind the criticism of the core of this team. Fans will be looking for scapegoats. A win isn't necessary but what is necessary is some effort. Certainly a better effort than what they showed against the Penguins, Red Wings and Bruins. While it's fairly early in the season, tonight's game very well may be a statement game on this season.