Feel that? There’s something in the air. It’s something new, something fresh. A little chilly, and a wee bit smug. It’s a feeling we have not felt in many months. It’s excitement and fear.

Yes. It’s Maple Leafs hockey night.

Oh sure, it’s just the pre-season and many grumblebums will tell you not to get excited for it. It means nothing, it’s just fancy practice. Pish posh I say, it’s those players we (mostly) know donning the blue and white. Hell yes it’s game night.

The Maple Leafs are taking on the Ottawa Senators in their first pre-season game tonight in Lucan, Ontario. The winners of Kraft Hockeyville, they are now rewarded with a pre-season game in their very own little town - with Nazem Kadri playing role of 1C as he did as a kid in this same rink.

We’re hours away from Maple Leafs game action on our screens. I for one, can’t wait.

Here are your links.

Manufactured Controversy: William Nylander’s Contract Extension - Centre of Leafs Nation

Five Toronto Marlies with plenty to play for at 2018 training camp - MLHS

Josh Morrissey signs for two years - Arctic Ice Hockey

Shea Theodore, Golden Knights still far apart in contract discussions, per report - Knights On Ice
Not the best news regarding Vegas’ young defenseman.

Florida Panthers announce Aleksander Barkov as new team captain - Litter Box Cats
23-year-old superstar, quiet and humble, will look to usher in a new age of Panthers hockey

Scott Moore’s Memo - Toronto Sports Media
Sportsnet getting into some funny business?

Alright folks, enjoy your day!

From The Branches