The worst part about the Maple Leafs losing last night to the Coyotes is that we can no longer mock the Habs for doing the same.

At least maybe we can blame the refs though? There is a lot of controversy over Auston Matthews’ goal on Antti Raanta which was reversed for goaltender interference because Zach Hyman had poked him with his stick about 10 seconds earlier.

Leafs fall to the Coyotes after a late disallowed goal - Kevin
Matthews thought he had tied the game with 3:50 to play, but a video review led to a goalie interference call.

The Leafs are entering a very busy part of the NHL schedule, cramming in four games in three days, two of which are on the road. They play the Panthers tomorrow, the Hurricanes Friday, then return to Toronto to host the Capitals on Saturday.

ICYMI

Carl Grundström to have knee surgery - Katya
The prognosis is weeks to months, so this could be very bad or just a blip.

Back to Excited Podcast - Episode 9 : Winning Ways & Why Willie and Nazem Struggle - Arvind and Dr. Fulemin
Fresh off fixing the Leafs in our last episode, we bask in their glory.

How To Make Your Trade Ideas Make Sense - Fulemin
A handy five-step guide!

Maple Leafs by the numbers #27: Frank Mahovlich vs Darryl Sittler - ElSeldo
Two members of legends row duke it out for the title.

Other News

Orange County’s Hero - Anaheim Calling
What Paul Kariya meant to the fans who watched him play.

Shades of Matthews in Coyotes’ Keller - Toronto Star
Arizona Coyotes super rookie Clayton Keller and the Leafs’ Auston Matthews have had something of a mutual admiration society for the past several years.

I wouldn’t make a bet with Babs. I still haven’t gotten my bottle of wine from last year’s World Juniors. You’re out of luck if you’re betting with him. I don’t think he pays up.

Should Matthews’ goal have been allowed?

Yes, absolutely. Raanta had more than enough time to stop the goal.166
Yes. I don’t care if Hyman did poke him, this rule is stupid.20
No. It’s valid goalie interference.77
From The Branches