serge 904 Posted September 14, 2007 Author Share Posted September 14, 2007 Serge saying that the Sens will be worse than the Leafs because they did nothing is totally ridiculous. It isn't the first time you've pulled out this silly argument and I'll call you out on it every time.I'm pretty sure you understand basic math, so I don't think I have to prove how your logic is very, very flawed...Yes simple math...Ottawa's lineup from last year is actually worse and the Leafs lineup from last year is a LOT better...what part of that is flawed?They will have the inevitable let down from last years finals loss...Ottawa last year had 14 more pts than the Leafs....The Leafs are much better in goal...The Leafs are WAY better on d...Overall top 9 forwards the Leafs are better...The only category the Sens are better this year is top 3 forwards..Leafs are deeper at forward ..These are basic principles and it will play out on the ice... Link to post Share on other sites
Zach6668 513 Posted September 15, 2007 Share Posted September 15, 2007 I don't understand how the Leafs line up is A LOT better than last year?They added the gremlin dude, and the drunk dude...The only thing they've definitely improved at is goaltending. Link to post Share on other sites
serge 904 Posted September 15, 2007 Author Share Posted September 15, 2007 I don't understand how the Leafs line up is A LOT better than last year?They added the gremlin dude, and the drunk dude...The only thing they've definitely improved at is goaltending.so how many 40 goal scorers do you think there were in the NHL..Dont look it up...The answer is only 10..Blake was one of them...The goaltending situation went from a good goalie with an AHL back up to...A great goalie with a good backup...Mark Bell will come in November and has a lot to prove and will score 20-30 goals in a shortened season...thats a HUGE shot in the arm to the offense , which was already 4th in the conference in offense last year...You can argue all the points you want , everything points to a big year for the Leafs.. Link to post Share on other sites
Zach6668 513 Posted September 15, 2007 Share Posted September 15, 2007 I have my issues with Blake. I know he's a 40 goal scorer once though.I still don't see how they'll have a big year. They're slightly improved from last year. I expect them to contend for a playoff spot, but I'd be suprised if they are a dominant force in the conference.On the other hand, with the amount of parity in the league, anything is possible. I'm not saying it's impossible for them to win the division, but I think it's a long shot, not what is to be expected. Link to post Share on other sites
serge 904 Posted September 15, 2007 Author Share Posted September 15, 2007 I have my issues with Blake. I know he's a 40 goal scorer once though.I still don't see how they'll have a big year. They're slightly improved from last year. I expect them to contend for a playoff spot, but I'd be suprised if they are a dominant force in the conference.On the other hand, with the amount of parity in the league, anything is possible. I'm not saying it's impossible for them to win the division, but I think it's a long shot, not what is to be expected.lol..way to make a prediction mr fence sitter....There is a lot of guys with a lot to prove...Wellwood, Steen and Stajan...ALL RFA next yearSundin.....lot of naysayers saying he is over the hill...Look out for him this yearBlake...New team and would love to repeat his n 40 goal status to prove he can score with the best of themToskala and Raycroft....IF they want to play they cant let up at allI am laying it on the line...No fence sitting from me..This team will win a ton of games if they stay healthy... Link to post Share on other sites
Zach6668 513 Posted September 15, 2007 Share Posted September 15, 2007 I'm not here to make a prediction.I've told you before I'm a Leafs fan as well. I grew up watching HNIC with my Dad.I'm just saying I don't expect anything extraordinary from them. They're a pretty average team, IMO, but the makeup of the league allows any team to have a good run and take the division, if things fall the right way. I'd be happy to see them win the division, even if it costs me $25. Link to post Share on other sites
serge 904 Posted September 15, 2007 Author Share Posted September 15, 2007 I'm not here to make a prediction.I've told you before I'm a Leafs fan as well. I grew up watching HNIC with my Dad.I'm just saying I don't expect anything extraordinary from them. They're a pretty average team, IMO, but the makeup of the league allows any team to have a good run and take the division, if things fall the right way. I'd be happy to see them win the division, even if it costs me $25. ok fair enough..we appreciate the support...You can always give up that other team that you like and come to the good side...we will accept you with open arms...Crosby,Malkin,Staal,Fleury...bla ....boring... Link to post Share on other sites
digitalmonkey 929 Posted September 15, 2007 Share Posted September 15, 2007 Blake won't score 40 goals this season.Toskela is overrated. The guy had the best goal support in the league last season for all goaltenders. He won't get that this year AND he won't have the same calibre of defense in front of him.Sundin will score about 75 points again and the Leafs will battle for one of the last couple of playoff spots.And now, back to the Serge show. Link to post Share on other sites
serge 904 Posted September 15, 2007 Author Share Posted September 15, 2007 Blake won't score 40 goals this season.Toskela is overrated. The guy had the best goal support in the league last season for all goaltenders. He won't get that this year AND he won't have the same calibre of defense in front of him.Sundin will score about 75 points again and the Leafs will battle for one of the last couple of playoff spots.And now, back to the Serge show.I am very proud of my team...and your comments are off base..Thanks though Link to post Share on other sites
TheDaveyG 6 Posted September 15, 2007 Share Posted September 15, 2007 I am going to try to look at he east as impartial as I can. 1. Rangers- Obviously much improved, only question is on defense and whether Jagr is tough enough to win 3 playoff series in a row. 2. Penguins- Huge improvement from 05/06 to 06/07 and no reason to think they won't improve to second, and maybe best, team in the East. 3. Ottawa- Could be their last chance to make a serious run for a while with Heatly and Spezza not signed yet. 4. Florida- I really think this team is getting better by the year, and their division is the weakest in the East so I think Florida is going to pick up those easy points. 5. Atlanta- I think will barely lose division to Florida, by two maybe 4 points. 6. Buffalo- Still have weapons, solid goaltending and a good coach.7. Montreal- 8. Toronto- Both Montreal and Toronto will benefit from Philly being better causing the Devils and Islanders to not get easy points. 9. Tampa Bay- 2 points out of 8th spot10. Carolina- 4 points out of 8th11. New Jersey- Brodeur won't be able to play as many games, combined with losses of Gomez and Rafalski equals missing the playoffs12. Philadelphia- Will be better, but by only 12-15 wins better.13. Washington- Still a year or two away from making the playoffs14. Boston- weak15. Islanders-weakest Link to post Share on other sites
gruven 530 Posted September 15, 2007 Share Posted September 15, 2007 Serge, by your logic, Blake should be even better than 40 goals with Sundin in the middle. Since you're so convinced..... I will bet you $50 that Blake does not score 40 this year. Link to post Share on other sites
serge 904 Posted September 15, 2007 Author Share Posted September 15, 2007 Serge, by your logic, Blake should be even better than 40 goals with Sundin in the middle. Since you're so convinced..... I will bet you $50 that Blake does not score 40 this year.I am pretty convinced of that fact...However I actually think Blake is better suited to play with Wellwood....You definetely have an edge in that bet, but the sick gambler I am I will take it...Of course I will need an injury insurance...$50 Blake will score 40 goals minimum games played 72....If you like to take the bet post it in the Wagers Thread Link to post Share on other sites
gruven 530 Posted September 15, 2007 Share Posted September 15, 2007 I am pretty convinced of that fact...However I actually think Blake is better suited to play with Wellwood....You definetely have an edge in that bet, but the sick gambler I am I will take it...Of course I will need an injury insurance...$50 Blake will score 40 goals minimum games played 72....If you like to take the bet post it in the Wagers Thread Book it...... Link to post Share on other sites
TheDaveyG 6 Posted September 15, 2007 Share Posted September 15, 2007 Book it......Cha-Ching! Link to post Share on other sites
serge 904 Posted September 15, 2007 Author Share Posted September 15, 2007 Cha-Ching! Yes Cha Ching to me...I am the only one on this forum that 100% supports my team and my choices..I love the Leafs... Link to post Share on other sites
serge 904 Posted September 15, 2007 Author Share Posted September 15, 2007 STAY TUNED...Later today I will be coming out with an analysis of every Leaf player and what I expect from themDOnt miss this opportunity to hear from the best... Link to post Share on other sites
serge 904 Posted September 16, 2007 Author Share Posted September 16, 2007 Here is the official Toronto Maple Leafs 2007-2008 preview...Provided solely and exlusively by the person you all love to hate on here the wonderful and talented Serge..Owner of the AHL Mustangs and the FCHL YAHOO Mustangs...Serge also is the self proclaimed prop betting Champion of North America...On to the Preview.Here is where I see the projected lineup to look like come preseason and where I think the scoring lines will end up...Line 1....Alexei Ponikarovsky Mats Sundin Nik AntropovLine 2... Darcy Tucker Kyle Wellwood Jason BlakeLine 3. Mark Bell Matt Stajan Alexander SteenLine 4. Bates Battaglia John Pohl Chad KilgerExtra ForwardsTony SalmelainenKris NewburyJeremy WilliamsBoyd DevereauxDefencemanTomas KaberleBryan MccabePavel KubinaIan WhiteCarlo ColaiacovoHal GillFighting for a spotWade BelakAndy WozniewskiAnton StralmanStaffan KronwallJay HarrisonGoaliesVesa ToskalaAndrew RaycroftScott ClemmensenJustin PoggeThats the projected lineup....Now I will go into detail where I see every major player ending upMATS SUNDIN .....Mats had another Sundin like year last year...Mr consistensy put 76 pts last year...Sundin will have another good year and if he stays healthy will put up better numbers with the deeper lineup. Maurice will shuffle the lines and look for Sundin to click with Blake sometime throughout the year.and definetely lots of PP time...Sundin will get 30 goals and 85 ptsJASON BLAKE......Of all the free agents that were signed on July 1st Blake had the most goals last year..Blake ended up finishing 10th in league scoring with 40 goals playing for a much less talented forward core in New York...The shoot first Blake(9th in shots in the NHL) seems to be a perfect fit for the pass first Kyle Wellwood...Maurice will no doubtly try these two and they have the potential to be a very dangerous duo...Gretzky Kurri, Hull Oates and now Wellwood and Blake...Lot of people have doubted Blake's one year wonder status...Look for Blake to prove everyone wrong..A great additon to this team....Blake will score 45 goals and 80 ptsKYLE WELLWOOD....Wellwood was having a great year until a groin injury pretty much ended his season...Most players usually blossom in their 3rd years and here is Wellwood's chance. Another thing to remember is Wellwood will be a restricted free agent next year and is looking for a big salary increase from the $950000 contract he currently has. Maurice has said he will increase Wellwood's ice time considerably and look for Wellwood to have a huge year playing his natural centre position. With a proven goal scorer in Blake and a gritty tough guy in Tucker this line should produce huge numbers...if he stays healthy look for 20 goals 55 assists from Wellwood.DARCY TUCKER Darcy was on his way to another career year until a foot injury limited him to only 54 games...He still put up 24 goals and was a big part of the Leafs offense...Clicked last year on the PP with Wellwood and Sundin...Look for him to get a lot PP minutes with Blake and Sundin...If he can stay healthy another big year is likely from Darcy..Prediction 28 goals and 35 assists....Alexei Ponikarovsky Pony as he is affectionately called by his mates and the media had a second straight 21 goal season playing mostly with Sundin and Antropov...at 6 4 6 4 and 6 6 this was one of the largest lines in the league and created tons of scoring chances down low leading to a solid year by Pony....A late bloomer the 27 year old is poised to repeat and improve on last year ..25 goals and 25 assistsNik Antropov Antropov has frustrated Leaf fans for years with his potential and not much to show for it...However last year he did manage to put together a career best 18 goals..The thing with Antropov is he has averaged only 58 games over the last 3 years....The key here is to stay healthy and a 20 goal season is within reach....Prediction 20 goals 23 assistsMatt Stajan Another promising youngster on the roster ...In a limited role managed to put up 39 pts which was a career high. The 23 year old Stajan goes into restricted free agency and would like to put up some good numbers. Has shown a lot more defensive responsibility as of late and is a solid 3rd line player...Look for a 40 -50 pt season from StajanAlexander Steen The son of NHL regular Tomas Steen is also a RFA in 2008. Showed signs of brilliance in a 3 month stretch where he put up 26pts in 27 games. Could make a huge leap forward if he can show some more consistency...Unfortunately will be limited in ice time and will not get any PP time as he is low on the depth chart with the Leafs improving at the forward position...Look for a potential 20 goal season from Steen.Mark Bell Bell has had the much documented off ice problems and looks to turn his life around in Toronto...Took back to back bad beats as first he was sentenced to 6 months in jail and then Gary Bettman suspended him for 15 games..Hopefully he will come back healthy and with a lot to prove and will fit in nicely with the blue and white offense...Look for 23 goals from Bell in a shortened season.Bryan Mccabe Along with Tomas Kaberle, Mccabe gives the Leafs a one two punch on defence which a lot of teams in the NHL dont have. Mccabe followed up his career year two year ago to a very solid 15 goal 57 pt season...He lives off the PP and look for him to rack up even more pts as the Leafs forward core has improved. Needs to stop taking needless minor penalties and play a smarter defensive game....Look for Mccabe to put up 17 goals and 65 pts.Tomas Kaberle Also put up solid numbers with 11 goals and 47 pts...One of the best puckhandlers in the league and responsible for a solid transition game the Leafs will employ. Great combo with Mccabe on the PP...Should put up similar numbers from last year...Pavel Kubina Struggled to live up the $20 million 4 yr contract he was signed to...Does possess offensive skills as he had 17 goals two years ago...Wont put up huge numbers however look for him to improve from last years 7 g 21 pt output....Some young players to watch on the blueline are Ian White , Carlo C and Steffan Kronwall....The leafs are very deep at this position and have several young guys that can step in like they did last yaer.GOALTENDINGVESA TOSKALA The Leafs immensely improved the goaltending situation with the trade that brought Toskala to the ACC....With the opportunity to prove himself as a number one goalie and a solid backup to push him, he has found the right situation in Toronto.Andrew Rayrcoft Look for Raycroft to be given every opportunity to claim the starter role. Maurice will go with the hot hand and its a good problem to have two solid goalies to rely on...JFJ did a great job in the off season to make this team competitive again. Admittedly his previous mistakes handcuffed him slightly(Kubina's 5 million) however he rebounded right back with a solid trade and a great free agent signing in Blake. The LEafs are in position not only to get back to the playoffs after a 3 year absence , however should be able to challenge for the Eastern Conference which is pretty wide open....The Leafs who in recent years have been criticized for drafting poorly have a few solid prospects waiting in the wings. Justin Pogge is the future goalie and guys like Stralman,Tlusty,Williams are poised to step in and continue to carry on the Leafs powerful tradition. A lot still has to go right in 2008 for the Leafs to win the Cup, however they are in a position to challenge for it. Link to post Share on other sites
digitalmonkey 929 Posted September 16, 2007 Share Posted September 16, 2007 Line 3. Mark Bell Matt Stajan Alexander Steen Didn't you hear, Mark Bell has been suspended.Wow, Toronto should challenge for the President's Trophy with every one of their players either having similar numbers to last season or better. Link to post Share on other sites
serge 904 Posted September 16, 2007 Author Share Posted September 16, 2007 Didn't you hear, Mark Bell has been suspended.yes of course...he will be back... Link to post Share on other sites
gruven 530 Posted September 16, 2007 Share Posted September 16, 2007 Yeah, I noticed that too.... according to Serge, the Leafs are on their way to breaking the single season NHL scoring record for a team... LOL BUT..... MY FAVOURITE PART..........DARCY TUCKER Darcy was on his way to another career year until a foot injury limited him to only 54 games...He still put up 24 goals and was a big part of the Leafs offense...Clicked last year on the PP with Wellwood and Sundin...Look for him to get a lot PP minutes with Blake and Sundin Gee, uh, yeah, that is true for sure. The leafs first PP unit does tend to play 90 seconds on the PP, sometimes even more. Which leads me to wonder what might possibly happen to Jason Blake, who scored 14 of his 40 goals on the power play. So Blake is going to equal his career high goal total without the benefit of first unit PP time??? And people wonder why we jump so hard on the opportunity to get money down with serge...... Link to post Share on other sites
serge 904 Posted September 17, 2007 Author Share Posted September 17, 2007 Yeah, I noticed that too.... according to Serge, the Leafs are on their way to breaking the single season NHL scoring record for a team... LOL BUT..... MY FAVOURITE PART..........DARCY TUCKER Darcy was on his way to another career year until a foot injury limited him to only 54 games...He still put up 24 goals and was a big part of the Leafs offense...Clicked last year on the PP with Wellwood and Sundin...Look for him to get a lot PP minutes with Blake and Sundin Gee, uh, yeah, that is true for sure. The leafs first PP unit does tend to play 90 seconds on the PP, sometimes even more. Which leads me to wonder what might possibly happen to Jason Blake, who scored 14 of his 40 goals on the power play. So Blake is going to equal his career high goal total without the benefit of first unit PP time??? And people wonder why we jump so hard on the opportunity to get money down with serge...... I never said Blake wouldnt get 1st PP time...He definetely will along with Sundin...It will be tough on Wellwood and Tucker...I actually like to see Wellwood, Blake, Tucker and Sundin and Mccabe on the point... Link to post Share on other sites
gruven 530 Posted September 18, 2007 Share Posted September 18, 2007 I never said Blake wouldnt get 1st PP time...He definetely will along with Sundin...It will be tough on Wellwood and Tucker...I actually like to see Wellwood, Blake, Tucker and Sundin and Mccabe on the point... Tucker and Blake are both left handed shots who play the off wing. There is no room for both of them on the same PP unit. Sundin on the point renders his skill and size down low ineffective. So expecting PP specialist Tucker and PP specialist Blake to both match career years when one of the two has to play on the second PP unit is simply ridonkulous. But, of course, you're down there and know more than reporters, so you MUST be right....... LOL Link to post Share on other sites
serge 904 Posted September 18, 2007 Author Share Posted September 18, 2007 Tucker and Blake are both left handed shots who play the off wing. There is no room for both of them on the same PP unit. Sundin on the point renders his skill and size down low ineffective. So expecting PP specialist Tucker and PP specialist Blake to both match career years when one of the two has to play on the second PP unit is simply ridonkulous. But, of course, you're down there and know more than reporters, so you MUST be right....... LOLas i told you before I understand the Leaf situation better than most reporters....A reporters main job is to create controversy..but thats just my opinion....Also you are correct in your assesment with Blake and Tucker..however with two STRONGER pp units they might play the second unit more...Also I dont agree with your assesment on Sundin's ineffectiveness on the point...He has a great shot and also can pass the puck pretty well....Report that Sundin has asked to play along with Blake looks to be accurate....HOwever nothing is written in stone and Maurice loves to shuffle lines...Tonight the journey begins...First game of the year for the future Stanley Cup champions of 2008...The leafs embark on their journey with a tilt against the Oilers...GO LEAFS GO Link to post Share on other sites
serge 904 Posted September 19, 2007 Author Share Posted September 19, 2007 Good start to the pre season schedule as the team look solid..Sundin and Blake and a few other regulars were not in the lineup and Justin Pogge got some action..Lets keep it going boys...we are getting close Link to post Share on other sites
Kyle Wellwood 0 Posted September 19, 2007 Share Posted September 19, 2007 Hi Guys,Its been a while since I posted. Just relaxing a little before headind down to the rink for our game against Phoenix tonight. The boys look like they are all in shape and I feel 100% after my surgery last year, so we are all excited. Coach has decided to put Mats with Antropov and Blake and I will be centring Pony any Tucks....I think its a solid two lines that we can match and mix against any opposition. I am really excited about the coming year and look forward to coming in time to time to give you guys some updates on the team.Hope everyone is ready for an exciting year in the NHL, I know I am.Kyle Link to post Share on other sites
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