Ian Scott’s had a heck of a season. After having a sub-.900 save percentage before this year, he has exploded this year and fought his way onto Team Canada for the World Juniors coming up later this month. He’s considered to be behind Mike DiPietro of the OHL for the #1 goalie job going into the tournament. However, after DiPietro had an uninspiring performance against Switzerland where he gave up 3 goals on the first 11 shots he faced, Scott had a chance to put his name into stronger consideration last night vs Slovakia.

Ian Scott by stopping 22 of the 23 shots he faced, looking calm and making all the saves he needed to make when Canada’s defense broke down. Was it enough to take the #1 spot? Probably not, but it didn’t hurt his chances either.

On the other side of the optimistic coin, the Toronto Marlies lost a frustrating game to Laval 2-1 last night. Hardev will have the recap, but it sounds like there were some little shenanigans. And by shenanigans, I don’t mean the bizarre in-game promotion they had going...

I didn’t realize they were so mad about the Marlies signing Adam Cracknell away from them...

The 5-Game Process: Rinse and Repeat Leafs | by Katya

Marlies Morgan Klimchuk suspended for 3 games | by Katya

Mike Babcock on heaviness, the advantages of depth down the middle, lightening Frederik Andersen’s workload in the second half & more | by Alec Brownscombe at MLHS

This is my favourite empty calories read of the year so far. Many of the answers are just so perfectly in character for some of the players (looking at you and your concern for your suit, Tavares), and it’s hilarious seeing what guys have highly detailed stories and what guys dodge/refuse to answer the question.

Ask every Maple Leaf: What is the most embarrassing moment of your hockey career? | by Joshua Kloke at The Athletic

Who taught Tavares how to mark smh

PK Subban is a treasure.

Braden Holtby was having some fun last night.

From The Branches