Summer has finally arrived in Vancouver. I wore shorts for the first time this weekend, and when I was wearing long pants, I had a tank top on. It was glorious. So I started thinking about a few things I'm looking forward to, Leafs-wise, this summer. Here's my top 3... what have you got?
1. The news conference where Dion Phaneuf is named Captain.
We all know it's happening. We all know how Burke loves the media spotlight. I expect Phaneuf will be coached for this event, and can't wait to hear how much he loves wearing the blue and white. I am wondering if he will have a similar goofy grin to Kessel's when he signed with the Leafs last year. We'll see. Either way, the Leafs will be starting a new era with a new captain. I hope he can live up to it.
2. The Draft
Sure, we have virtually no draft picks, at least none at the top of the draft where they matter (shhh don't tell the Red Wings that late round draft picks don't matter). But I don't expect that to be the case once the draft actually gets here. We'll get something, at least in the second round... and it may involve Kaberle moving on to a new team for the first time in his career.
3. July 1
Having free agency on a stat holiday is brilliance. Last year, I was able to go out and enjoy a hike because TSN's texting feature allowed me to not miss a single significant signing. It is also great to wake up on the west coast to a bevvy of players finding new homes. It's also exciting to follow on twitter, which will be bigger than ever this year. I don't expect a big splash from the Leafs here, but it'll be fun nonetheless.
Links after the jump.
- The Pros and Pros of Wayne Primeau
maple-stirup takes a look why the Leafs should re-sign Primeau. - The Case for Boarding the Hawks Bandwagon
MLHS supports Chemmy's position of cheering for Hawks. I just can't do it. - Russ Courtnall at the '06 Juno Cup
Vintage Leafs has a new set of photos, starting with this one of Courtnall. - Brian Burke and AHL Advanced Stats
An Oilers Blog - Irreverant Oilers Fans - has found some pretty interesting information about Brian Burke's teams. - Kulemin contributing at the Worlds; Gustavsson makes a statement; NHL playoff notebook
Vintage Leaf Memories tells us what Kulemin and the Monster have been doing at the WHC, and gives us a few points about the playoffs. - Sharks' top line stymied by a bevy of Blackhawks
I hate that I have to cheer for the Magnificent Disappearing Trio. - Leighton blanks Habs while Flyers shell Halak, Price in East final opener
I feel dirty, but I watched the third period of this game and cheered. Then, I showered. - Toronto Guys Help Habs Stanley Cup Run
Toronto bred hockey players leading Montreals charge to the Stanley Cup in 2010. I say we start a traitor list.
