Training camp hasn't been underway for long and already I like the sound of the way things are going out there in Halifax.

Mike Babcock is just saying all the things I want to hear right now. He says we can make our defence better overaell, and says he thinks guys like Jake Gardiner and Morgan Rielly can improve a lot. You get the same sorts of comments about Dion Phaneuf. Then, he expresses confidence in Nazem Kadri, and I'm about ready to swoon. Babcock just says these things with so much confidence, like he knows that he can make these guys better.

I guess we won't know for sure just how much better he can make them, but man, I'm excited to see.

On to the links.

Nazem Kadri Ready For A Fresh Start

"He's going to be a Leaf for a long time," says Mike Babcock. In these interviews with the player and then the coach, it sounds like Babcock is going to push Kadri, but it also sounds like he really believes in his abilities. Finally. Video from TSN.

TLN Player Profiles: Matt Hunwick

A look at a few of his numbers and highlights.

TLN Roundtable: Wherefore art thou, offence?

This one was actually posted on the 18th, but I don't think it was linked yesterday, so here you go.

Babcock focusing on Rielly, Gardiner early at Leafs' camp

This article is from the Toronto Sun (I know, I know) but it still gives me the feels. "All in all, our defence, I feel we can make them get a lot better." That's the kind of quote you wanted to hear from Babcock.

Leafs did homework on goalie coach Steve Briere

Apparently, Mitch Korn helped Babcock out a fair bit with the hiring process. "(Briere) is a smart guy. He’s going to make us better over time." This story also from the Sun.

Babcock wants vets to push for a roster spot

Well, like I said earlier, the Leafs have created real job competition. This is going to be interesting. Video from Sportsnet.