Kukla's Korner Hockey

Kukla's Korner Hockey

Maple Leafs have some issues to 'get fixed'

10/01/2015 at 2:53pm EDT

From the Canadian Press's Stephen Whyno:

As the rebuild continues, the Maple Leafs might not be much better, even under Mike Babcock. But the star coach will make sure that at least they put up a fight.

"Two things that irritate me the most are lack of preparation and lack of compete," he said. "That's not happening. We're going to get that fixed."

The Leafs should be motivated by playing for a new coach and needing to impress a new general manager, Lou Lamoriello. Phil Kessel's already gone, and almost no one on the roster is untouchable.

Management brought in several players on one-year, "prove-it" contracts. Shawn Matthias signed for US$2.3 million, Pierre-Alexandre Parenteau $1.5 million, Matt Hunwick $1.2 million, Mark Arcobello $1.1 million and Brad Boyes $700,000.

They also have players with a year left on their deals, like centre Nazem Kadri, defenceman Martin Marincin (acquired from Edmonton) and winger Michael Grabner (acquired from the Islanders).

Toronto probably won't contend for a playoff spot, but it won't be because players aren't trying.

"We're not going to lose because of lack of effort this year," Kadri said. "It's something that's going to change. We're going to be a skating team, a team that is going to move quick and with pace."

Continued

Create an Account

In order to leave a comment, please create an account.

About Kukla's Korner Hockey

Paul Kukla founded Kukla’s Korner in 2005 and the site has since become the must-read site on the ‘net for all the latest happenings around the NHL.

From breaking news to in-depth stories around the league, KK Hockey is updated with fresh stories all day long and will bring you the latest news as quickly as possible.

Email Paul anytime at [email protected]

Most Recent Posts

Most Recent Comments

Comment by Paul in Kukla's Korner Hockey from the entry NHL Short Notes - 1 hour ago
Comment by Paul in Kukla's Korner Hockey from the entry NHL Short Notes - 1 hour ago
Comment by Steeb in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Quick Recap- Wings/Hurricanes - 2 hours ago
Comment by calquake in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Quick Recap- Wings/Hurricanes - 3 hours ago
Comment by StargateSG1 in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Quick Recap- Wings/Hurricanes - 3 hours ago