Sheldon Keefe rips the Leafs to shreds after another blown lead
Death, taxes, and the Leafs being unable to hold a lead. In what is becoming a very concerning pattern, the Leafs once again flew out of the gate, built a multi-goal lead, then blew it.
Of course, by all metrics, puck possession, shots, and advanced stats like expected goals, the Leafs were the better team. The unfortunate fact is that they weren't better on the scoreboard.
Sheldon Keefe wasn't impressed by the Leafs' performance against the New York Rangers Wednesday night.
«We got exposed today for being a team that was just soft. Soft and purposeless and just kind of playing the game hoping it was gonna work out.»
The Leafs had their chances, but they gave up the middle of the ice too easily and lost too many battles along the half wall. They had the puck, but they didn't do much with it, and when they did, Igor Shesterkin was rock solid for the Rangers. In the battle between two Vezina Trophy candidates, «Prince Igor» reigned supreme on this night.
Keefe also spoke about Jack Campbell's play.
"He's not playing to the same level, I think that's obvious."
To be fair, the level Campbell has been at this season was ridiculously good, but 10 goals against in his last 2 games could be a sign that the Leafs need to give their new starting goaltender more rest.
Jack has been a brick wall for the Leafs this season. But they need him to be fresh if they're going to have any type of success in the post season. It's time for Petr Mrazek to start earning his keep.
I have a feeling we've got another bag skate practice incoming from Keefe. It's clear that he sees the same issues with the team that we do. Now we need to see if he can solve them.
