Good morning Toronto Maple Leafs fans! Around the country people are getting ready to enjoy the long weekend.

Be it Civic Holiday (ON), Terry Fox Day (BC), Saskatchewan Day (AB), Simcoe Day (Toronto), or whatever else you want to call it, for a lot of us 9-5ers it's a long weekend. I salute those of you putting in the hours though.

I'm leaving for a road trip designed by my wife, so first we're heading to the southern Appalachian hills of Kentucky to search for Bigfoot. Then it's off to West Virginia to see the Mothman. Then a final stop of ghost hunting in Gettysburg.

She's a big ol' nerd I know but she finished 30 days of classes in July and I'm proud and she deserves it.

Speaking of deserving it, body checking!

Hockey Canada is looking to raise the age that body checking is introduced. I have no strong opinions on this.

https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs/news/report-former-maple-leafs-gm-kyle-dubas-was-waiting-on-decision-from-brandon-pridham-before-penguins-announcement

Dubas tried to steal one of the Leafs best assets on his way out. Didn't work. Neener neener.

Be careful with joining in on horny posting, NHL teams.

Seattle Kraken’s TikTok debacle should be a warning for all sports teams Seattle Kraken’s TikTok debacle should be a warning for all sports teams
The Seattle Kraken encouraged the “BookTok” objectification of center Alex Wennberg until they no longer could.
Alex ReimerAwful Announcing

Summer filler content, but it's about old arenas so I'll allow it.

These 5 NHL Arenas are Gone, But Can’t Be Forgotten
The Pittsburgh Penguins made a lot of history when they were playing on the other side of Centre Avenue. They won three Stanley Cups while based there. Muddled through a couple of bankruptcies, too. Fact is, innumerable professional triumphs and personal tragedies were linked to the place alternatel…
Dave MolinariPittsburgh Hockey Now

Finally, Tom Wilson is staying in Washington for seven more years.

Capitals sign Tom Wilson to 7-year, $45.5m Extension.
Whip is back! The Caps have signed Tom Wilson to a new 7-year deal.
Kalilu JawaraJapers' Rink

Alright folks. Add news as it happens because I am on vacation.

From The Branches