Knies, Lafferty, Lajoie each land a thunderous hit in pre-season opener against the Senators

Prior to the start of training camp, we heard about how Brad Treliving wants the Leafs to show a little more snarl this season, be more physical and make the opposing team as uncomfortable as possible. Apparently that message has been received.

During the Leafs' pre-season opener against the Ottawa Senators, a trio of players showed a little extra "snot, piss and vinegar", much to the delight of Treliving and company. Max Lajoie, Matthew Knies and Sam Lafferty each landed some thunderous hits in this one, and you can be sure that the Sens were looking over their shoulders the rest of the way.

Lajoie is not going to be beating anyone on the Leafs' blueline out for a spot, but it's nice to see him show the organization what he can do. Knies and Lafferty, on the other hand, are expected to be contributors for the Leafs this season. If they can bring this element of physicality, using their bodies to separate guys from pucks, they're going to be a lot of fun to watch this season.

Former Maple Leafs Pivot Ryan O'Reilly Among Two Potential Trade Targets in Toronto

NHL Insider Reveals Auston Matthews' Return Date for the Maple Leafs

The Hits Just Keep Coming for the Maple Leafs: Another Absence Leads to Another AHL Recall

Pair of Maple Leafs Reporters Engage in Heated Altercation Over Mitch Marner's Actual Value

Ryan Reaves' Brother Gets Involved in Public Beef with Oilers Defenseman Darnell Nurse

NHL Explains Why Zach Whitecloud's Hit on Matthew Knies Didn't Warrant a Suspension

Oilers' Darnell Nurse Deep Fries Maple Leafs Enforcer Ryan Reaves For Dangerous Hit

Player Safety Reportedly Makes Controversial Decision on Zach Whitecloud's hit on Leafs' Matthew Knies

Craig Berube Shares Surprising Update on Leafs Winger Matthew Knies

Craig Berube Shares Exciting News Regarding Maple Leafs Captain Auston Matthews