And every year begins with certain levels of optimism, and this year is no different. A first night victory over storied rival Montreal is always sweet, but like man, we did that last year.
So I do not get bent out of shape, because the Jays won on opening night, clobbered 3 home runs, and looked stellar, on their way to a 81-81 season.
Do I like the look of this team as presented, well there are elements present that might be an improvement, Lombardi, Frattin, Gardiner and Steckl, speed, skill, toughness, finese, and puck possession. So before we get too far ahead of ourselves, consider we went 4-0 last year before tasting defeat.
Reimer remains the key and last night, he was Optimus Reims, held the slow starting Leafs in the game, until 33 seconds into the second frame, Matt Lombardi's speed and hands cashed in a rebound and Toronto took a 1-0 lead. For some reason the Habs were momentarily delated, and played half interested in the 2nd, while the Buds got their seas legs, and began taking a strong forecheck to Montreal.
When Phaneuf scored as the trailer in a 3rd period rush with an absolute bullet, more air was released from the sails of the Habs, and while they mounted a few charges, many times Leaf sticks were in passing lanes, or the smaller opponents were pushed aside.
Doubtless the Habs will win many games, and will finish higher than Toronto, but won't advance very far. The Leafs exposed their flaws, they can ad do get pushed around, Blair Betts, Travis Moen and Eric Cole will all have a long season as bigger teams will take Scott Gomez, and Mike Camilleri's lunch money.
Keep the band happy, no parade yet, but we'll see how October goes.
