There hasn't been a whole lot of Leaf-related news to talk about over the last twenty-four hours with the Leafs being off, but there's been no shortage of love for a few individual players. First, Nikolai Kulemin gets some love from Jonas Siegel, as well as some Leaf teammates. Then, Franky Beauchemin gets some kudos courtesy of James Mirtle at the Globe at Mail:
Through much of his tenure in Toronto, he has drawn criticism from fans and media alike, pointed to as one of the reasons for the team’s struggles. Recent rumours have even had general manager Brian Burke set to deal him out of town.
Missed in much of the conversation, however, has been the fact that Beauchemin’s dependable game has helped keep the Leafs out of trouble more often than not in the 24 minutes a night he plays against other team’s top lines.
The Only Other Leaf Link:
Is it really "tough" to play in Toronto?
Tough question to answer.
Other Hockey Links:
Angry Crosby likely to skip all-star game
Well I'm sure a little thing like this won't draw any ire from around the league. Dave Shoalts has the story.
Monday's Three Stars
Wyshynski also has honorable/dishonorable mentions and a few video clips worth a look.
Independent or outlaw hockey league?
I hope I'm not the only one who, up until reading this article, was completely unaware of the GMHL's existence.
Which NHL All-Star forward will be ‘Mr. Irrelevant' in Fantasy Draft?
From the comments below the article: "How has no one mentioned Ales Hemsky? I'm sure all 6 captains/alternate captains don't even realize he's there as a player."
Looking towards the draft
Lowetide takes a look at several scouting lists.
Will we see 11 NHL teams change their jerseys next season?
Well, I can think of 11 teams that should.