Leafs Legend Mats Sundin Shares His Opinion on This Year's Rendition of the Maple Leafs
Photo credit: Per Haljestam-USA TODAY Sports
Maple Leafs legend and Hockey Hall of Famer Mats Sundin revealed how well he believes the Leafs will do this season after years of playoff disappointment.
The 11-year Captain of the Leafs and first ever European player taken first overall in the NHL draft made an appearance on Tuesday's 'Spittin' Chiclets' podcast and was asked about his hopes for the Leafs this season and what it was like joining the Leafs for a week at training camp.
"It was nice - Brad Treliving invited me to training camp," Sundin explained. "I was there with the team for, I think, five or six days. I got to travel with the team to an exhibition game against Montreal and watch them at home against the Canadiens and it was really nice to get close with the group. I got to hang out with Craig Berube. I was very impressed with the management, the coaching staff, and the group of players they have there. It's a very special group."
Doubling down on his thoughts about the group from training camp, Sundin believes that this is the most talented group the Leafs have ever had despite the shortcomings in the playoffs and is thrilled with the depth they have acquired.
"Every year you lose in the playoffs, you realize how hard it is to win in the playoffs. And I think that's the most important thing. And also, it's not only about the star players, right? It's about everyone, right down to the backup goalies, to all the defense, the whole group, if they're going to be able to push through. And I think when you're playing in a place like this, you realize that. Every year they're going to be a little better."
Sundin led the Leafs to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2002, which is as close as the Leafs have come to the Stanley Cup Finals since 1967. The franchise leader in points and goals expects to hand both of those records over to Auston Matthews and company over the next few seasons, but like many fans, he would rather see the team succeed in the playoffs than continue to collect personal accolades.
| POLL | ||
OCTOBRE 16 | 1534 ANSWERS Leafs Legend Mats Sundin Shares His Opinion on This Year's Rendition of the Maple Leafs How do you think the Leafs will do this year? | ||
| Wild Card | 210 | 13.7 % |
| Atlantic Division Champs/President's Trophy | 871 | 56.8 % |
| First round exit | 273 | 17.8 % |
| I just hope they have fun | 180 | 11.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
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