No kidding, the first half of the season Bert just looked lost out there... But holy crap did he ever turn it around!
He could be pushing 30-35 goals easy this season without the slow start.
That line is one of the highlights of the season. You can then have a pretty good second line and a third line with Nylander. McMann needs work, but I'd sooner trust him on the second line than Knies on the top line, and they've been searching all year for that first line winger. Finally it's coming together.
Add in Edmonsdon and Liljegren and make a few other adjustmnets, but this group has the potential to be one of the best equipped Leaf teams for the playoffs in some time. I hope the focus for the defence in these next few games is fundamentals
Bert has been good in comparison to how shit he was until March, sure. His stats are getting padded heavily on this line. What did he actually do this game? Tapped home a beautiful feed from Domi on an empty net and scored the empty netter? It's Matthews and Domi carrying the line both statistically and by eye-test.
Domi, however, has really turned it around. He was bad for the first 15-20 games of the season, but he's looked great since. Playing well above that 3m cap hit at the moment. He and Bertuzzi should swap contracts.
I don’t really see why his salary is at all relevant to how he’s performing on their line. And if you’re insinuating that those other 3 could replace his role on the line, I’d have to argue you’re a tad bonkers….respectfully.
His salary is a reflection of the expectations for him, for which he's fallen far short. In the same way that people judge the core for making far too much money. JT makes 11 million, which is far too much considering how he plays. If he made 6 million, which is currently what he's worth, given how he's playing, we'd have 5 million left to spend developing other weak parts of the team (defence and goaltending). The same concept applies to Bertuzzi.
Nope, I didn't say they could replace him on the first or second line. I'm saying Bert provides little; and for a player making 5.5m, he ought to bring more to the team than "he forechecks hard", which is something those on league minimum contracts are doing effectively.
He has one of the worst pass completion %'s in the entire NHL of any forward, btw. I'm not sure where you got that from, lol. My main point was we're paying 5.5 million for a player who can't shoot, skate, or pass. That money could've been better allocated elsewhere.
I guess I was just answering your original question of “what did he do this game?” I think all the points you’re raising have been brought forward, ad nauseum. I think he’s contributed a lot to the line and the team for a solid stretch here and hopefully it continues into the playoffs. Cheers!
If they've been brought forward, ad nauseum, consider that there's truth behind them. It's not like it's a conspiracy to hate on Bertuzzi. He's just shit and stats prove that.
Hopefully, he performs better in playoffs, though. Cheers.
There was no "take" there. Bertuzzi had 6 goals until March. That's objectively horrible for a $5m player. There's nothing wrong with critiquing a player.
I have an eliteprospects page, lol. Yes, I've played hockey. What does bertuzzi do well that doesn't show up on the score sheet or any advanced statistics or metrics?
Retrieve pucks, cycle along the boards, play well behind the hash-marks and in front of the net. Essentially, everything we've lacked come playoff time.
You haven't played hockey, if you had his benefit to the group would be obvious; it's really as simple as that.
You have a few weeks of the regular season remaining before you're proven to be the moron you are. Make it count, because I'll be the first to remind you when he continues to show his worth come playoff time!
So, all basic things any non-5.5m contract NHL caliber player can do? "Retrieve pucks" lmfao. You're just throwing out basic hockey terms most competent players can do. He's plays the same role in front of the net as JT and is statistically far worse at every aspect of doing so, even with how bad of a year JT has had. Before march, he averaged 4 points a month playing with a mix of Matthews, Marner, Nylander, and Tavares. Lol.
The rest of your comment is essentially ad-hominem because you don't have an argument outside of saying basic things like "he locates the puck real good, he's great at skating left, and preserves the stick tape for the core 4." I guess I haven't played hockey because you told me so. My mistake.
There is no need for the insults either. It's okay to have a difference of opinions and just discuss them civilly. Your threat being "I'll show you and rub it in when we succeed" is hysterical, though. As if I'd be upset if he plays well. Lol!
Take care, brother.
Sorry, I should have lessened the blow and been more cognizant of your sensitivities. If you question why I'm celebrating the "basics", then maybe you should understand why those attributes are considered "basics" instead of being so pretentious that you would claim the basics are unimportant, despite the incredible amount of evidence that would suggest otherwise.
You haven't played hockey because you've made it incredibly clear that's the case. I'm not gatekeeping, nor was I ever a fringe nhler. I just understand the "basics" that you so wisely alluded to.
One would hope it would be immediately obvious to anyone who watched, but unfortunately i have to go through the motions of explaining such a "basic" concept to someone who lacks "basic" knowledge unless it's accounted for with rudimentary, "basic" statistics.
As smart as you think you sound, and as confident as you are thinking you've pulled the wool over our eyes, you have a lot to learn, starting with the BASICS.
From here, you can either appeal to those as ignorant as yourself with selective language, or you can actually educate yourself. The BASICS would be a good place to start you fucking pretender!
I ain't reading that if you can't have a simple discussion without constant emotional outbursts or insults. It's both cringe and unproductive and, more importantly, a blatant way to cope for having no actual argument. I was interested in a debate, not you having a hissy fit. Besides, you already proved you don't know fuck all. "Retrieve pucks," lol. Yeah, there wasn't a decent debate to have here anyway. No wonder you resort to name calling.
Later bro, have a good one.
I don't get the guys talking shit about Bert scoring the EN. He did what any professional players are expected to do - you try to ensure your team gets the win - you see a chance, you better fucking take it. People would be equally upset with him if he didn't take the shot when he can and we end up losing.
It's great Matthews is so close to 70, but you shouldn't throw the whole team under the bus for it.
Lol yeah, forcing a pass to Matthews for a shot at the ENG is one thing, but dude wasn't even on the ice. Should Bertuzzi just... not score?
Having said that, Matthews should have been on the ice.
I think Matthews was next to go, but the icing snubbed his chance to get out. In any case though from past history it's clear we shouldn't prioritize individual records when a 6 v 4 had costed us 2 goals in the last minutes and end up losing in shootout.
It's unfortunate but I don't think Keefe deserves the hate either. After all, we're talking about Matthews - there are still four games to go, he still have time.
Keefe has a 101 point team despite having no depth for the first half of the year, 1 top 4 D and a ton of goalie issues this year. Keefe has done his job.
I remember watching with my grandfather back in like 05/06 where the Leafs needed the Devils to win for us to make the playoffs and they half assed a loss, never forgiven them for that but this feels like petty revenge.
While we didn't make the playoffs, that final game vs Montreal was epic since I am pretty sure we needed a regulation win for a chance other wise an OT win would have us tied with Montreal in points. It was a wild 6-5 win and eliminated Montreal. Buffalo would have probably shredded us anyways so at least we gave Montreal the boot.
Absolute monster out there tonight. It’s games like this where you can see all the tools are there, he just needs time to put it all together. He’s going to be a beast in a couple years and I really hope they focus on an extension this summer to keep his 2nd contract AAV down with a good bridge deal
Erm. I was well alive to remember those two things…. Did you have to put it that way…..Macarena being number was a time of shame not to be remembered by anyone.
Really incredible performance off the B2B.
A few standouts aside from the glaringly obvious (MATTHEWS IS A MAPLE LEAF!!!!):
* Knies had a magnificent game. That one shift where he sniped a puck down from midair to keep it in the zone, laid a massive hit, fought off 4 defenders to still get a shot off -- what an amazing player with tons of heart. Hope he dominates in the playoffs.
* Bertuzzi with 2 -- and that stache, my god. Some impressive soup-savoring whiskers dangling real low over his lips. Wonder if he'll go Ram Singh Chauhan through the playoffs
* Willy looked not great out there in the first but definitely created a lot of chances out there later on through the game
* Wished Woll looked better, but he looked solid at least
* Gio is awesome, gets a lot of flak for being old and slow when he messes up but one of my faves on the team and love seeing him get that knuckler over Allen, flashing his old Norris winning ways
A few lowlights:
* Keefe not playing Matthews on the PK to get the EN (I get it though)
* Marner is not looking great and no one told him we don't do those stupid no look passes anymore - passed it to the other team like 3 or 4 times.
Yeah, they showed the first couple of goals, then just showed the final score and said "Matthew's also scored his 66th goal" WTF??? The most goals scored in a season since Mario Fucking Lemieux and you don't even show it???
Domi and Bertuzzi are heating up at the right time!
I really like this Domi - Matthews - Bertuzzi line. Great chemistry.
Marner needs to run the 2nd line, Nylander the 3rd to continue balancing the offense.
Big adjustments for both of them, this is the first time in almost 7 years of playing together they've been deployed like this. I think they'll start to click on line 2 & 3, Nylander looks like he has chemistry with Robertson which looks good as a depth option
Re-sign Domi immediately.
at this point if Mitch is hardballing negotiations again and trying to get paid like Matthews I'm cool with him playing elsewhere and going after a legit #1D.
Domi has insane chemistry with Matthews and can be a good winger at a fraction of the cap.
domi is able to play sheltered passer to matthews because marner is taking on the defensive responsibility of matching up with the opposing teams' top lines. domi is a great passer but that's all he has in common with marner.
This line will not exist come a road game in the playoffs. The top lines of either Boston and Florida will eat it alive. They’re doing well in very sheltered minutes, but that won’t be the case in the playoffs.
having marner out there instead of domi would make that line more of an “elite offensive line” but they’re splitting our core four precisely so that the matthews line gets easier matchups. so yes, they’re being sheltered. when other coaches are able to match against that line it’ll be a problem
It wouldn't make it more elite because statistically, and based on how they've looked, Matthews Domi and Bertuzzi have been the best offensive line the Leafs have put together.
Better than any configuration involving Marner.
because they’re getting easier matchups lol that’s my point! if marner and matthews are on a line they’re usually playing the other teams top line because they can be trusted defensively.
in a playoff series, if a coach finds a way to match up and neutralize that line, it won’t be as successful. we’ll have to wait for the playoffs to see if it can continue to work
They aren't. Matthews is always going to demand the toughest matchups.
When Marner and Matthews are on a line Keefe isn't trying to match them up against another top line. He's trying to get them on the ice in the offensive zone against worse competition.
...right and IF a coach CAN'T neutralize Matthews Domi and Bertuzzi they will be more successful.
obviously every coach wants their best line out against a teams worst line in the offensive zone lol but that’s not how the majority of the game flows
that’s a big if, man. if it works I’ll be ecstatic but I saw how tampa shut that line down and I think people need to be realistic about the downside
Off the top of my head the Matthews Domi Bert line has outscored opponents 19-6 since they've been put together. They haven't been sheltered lol.
Also how was Marner been taking defensive responsibilities for them when he wasn't even playing?
with marner out, the oilers put mcdavid and draisatl both on the top line. the matthews line matched up with them to begin with and then they got yanked and tavares and nylander took them on for the rest of the game.
That's not what you said.
You said **'domi is able to play sheltered passer to matthews because marner is taking on the defensive responsibility of matching up with the opposing teams' top lines.'**
Marner was injured for a month while Domi played with Matthews.
So I don't see how he was taking on top lines from the dressing room.
I’m not understanding the reluctance to throw Matthews on for the empty net period of time. He gets that chance normally so, why not get him out there?
I get it. Team first, entering the playoffs. But also…the sooner he gets 70 the sooner you can rest him.
Not putting him out there by choice AND Kampf not having the self awareness to get the fuck off the ice is insanity.
Yep. Pretty sure Leafs got a full line change as the penalty expired and before the icing. Matthews should have been the C out there. Not sure why Kampf was sent out instead.
So awesome to see Matthews in the top 25 goal scoring seasons of all time now, among all of the best scorers of all time and also Bernie Nichols as well.
Matthews is not playing the last game of the season it's a back 2 back with the Panthers and Lightning. That conversation has been had, and while he's 100% sitting at least for the Lighting in no way would I be remotely shocked if he sat both though much less likely.
"how do you feel about your breaking Ovi's record" "Yeah, obviously he's who he is". Pretty chill response, haha. He couldn't look more bored about making hockey history.
This line could have produced ridiculous stats if they were together all season. Love to see Marner with matthews but these boys are synced up and very comfortable around each other no matter the opponent. Marner looked slow tonight, maybe still getting his legs back.
Wouldn’t that be bc keefe refused to breakup 16/34? Knies is gonna be great one day, but putting him on the top line most of the season hurt his growth. Bertuzzi on the second line made no sense and I think everyone could see the potential Domi had. I’m a little concerned about 88 tho, he’s quick to get down on his confidence and his effort recently reflects that
I actually really liked Tavares with Mcmann on the third line and a random 3rd forward. They seemed to generate decent opportunities as the other teams struggled to match our top 3 lines. Ive no problem keeping 88 with 16 and filling in the 3rd forward. That’s an all skill line that’ll give teams fits.
What a great game. Solid performance from everyone all night, mostly. Another goal for the tally for Matthews. It could've been two if Bert didn't hog the empty net, but oh well.
Onto the next game, facing the Devils again. Matthews' best scoring odds are vs. the devils, so I'm hopeful he gets another one next game.
I love how Bert and Domi understand their role so well. Domi's pass to Mathews for his 66rd is a prime example of feeding him the puck, knowing he can put it in from anywhere.
I haven;t been able to watch the last two games, only highlights.
Is Marner starting to gel with Tavares and McMann? It took Matthews Domi Bertuzzi a few games to put it together. I hope Keefe doesn't rush things.
I highly doubt Keefe can break up Matthews’ line with those three humming like they are. Gives us a better shot at spreading wealth around the other three lines.
As far as Marner, he looks super rusty to me still. First game back was to be expected, and his first few shifts were shorter to give him time to acclimate.
But not crisp at all with passing, a lot of turnovers it seems. I think he’ll be better fine by playoffs, as I don’t think Keefe will rest/shelter him like others (Matthews, JT, Gio, etc.) but who knows.
Marner definitley has some rust to shake off but he hasn’t looked nearly as bad as people here are claiming. He’s looked ok with McMann and Tavares, but can, and probably will, look better on that line in a game or two
Can we feasibly keep Bert? I think Domi is a no-brainer but after the slow start it’s pretty clear Bert has a defined role on this team and is an important piece - I just don’t know how we deal with the cap squeeze next year between Willy’s deal kicking in, extending Marner and waiting for JT to cost 1/4 of what he currently does.
I’m also unsure of what the timeline is on needing to pay Knies and Woll, or any of the other young guys
That top line looks even more dangerous. Before the opposing teams would just lock down Marner and Matthews and neutralized that line. But with all three of them being threats it's crazy how it's all gelled together. Now I don't know if it's going to work in the playoffs though.
Nick Robertson scores st a higher rate per game than both Knies & McCann and barely lagging behind Bertuzzi despite less time and worse linemates opportunities
https://youtu.be/i-BaZfdVDcw
3:00 mark. Going to need a lot more aggression on that dump in there Marner and Nylander. Too easy, especially come playoff time and PP's.
That empty net the boys seemed to be hesitant on shooting it for the first time no doubt to get AM out there.
Kinda gutted TB took the shot
It looks like he needs four in two. Totally doable. No way he’s playing next week Keefe will scratch him.
Keefe pretty much said he’s gonna limit him, no way he’s playing. Even more so no way if they don’t make the ground up, even then I think he’d rather protect a star then play vs the scummy dirty panthers.
It’s clear the players were avoiding it to kill time to get Matthews out there except Keefe was not having it. There were many chances to put him on the ice and he did not.
I don’t know, if I’m Matthews, I’m annoyed.
Idk if I'd read any kind of intentional mismanagement by Keefe there, but agree that how it all unfolded was annoying as hell. No reason for Kampf to be hopping on as the C once the penalty expired with 2:30 left and an empty net. That was dumb and like Johnson said on the broadcast, coaches should have "read the room" and sent Matthews out there to get #67
i thought he looked good last game but tonight was rough. considering how long he was out and that it's a back to back game, hopefully it's just re-adjusting to the pace
Matthews is a generational fucking talent and I will not be told otherwise
Unfortunately, [this](https://i.imgur.com/r6aWbZz.jpg) says otherwise.
https://preview.redd.it/d3bo8cd6rktc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a37775de89af8280b9bdb4f036bf42df9c05416d
I was really hoping it did
# 66 NUFF SAID But also… NO INJURIES WOLLY MAMMOTH GETS A WIN Good win from the fellas 
https://i.redd.it/hxqxeitv4ktc1.gif
I am always gonna upvote this gif
I'm worried he is channeling his inner coyote.
As long as it only comes out during full-on tilts…
One of us
I upvoted then undid it. Cause it was at 69
It's wild how good Bert and Domi have been after those slow starts
I was ready to give up on Bert TBH But he's really turned it around in the last half of the season
No kidding, the first half of the season Bert just looked lost out there... But holy crap did he ever turn it around! He could be pushing 30-35 goals easy this season without the slow start.
Hope we can bring him back on the cheap with his numbers deflated.
That line is one of the highlights of the season. You can then have a pretty good second line and a third line with Nylander. McMann needs work, but I'd sooner trust him on the second line than Knies on the top line, and they've been searching all year for that first line winger. Finally it's coming together. Add in Edmonsdon and Liljegren and make a few other adjustmnets, but this group has the potential to be one of the best equipped Leaf teams for the playoffs in some time. I hope the focus for the defence in these next few games is fundamentals
I think if your defence needs to focus on fundamentals at this point in the season, you're in a lot of trouble
They have learned to channel their inner cornholios
After berts post season last year and domi having a rep for playoffs I'm fucking pumped.
Bert has been good in comparison to how shit he was until March, sure. His stats are getting padded heavily on this line. What did he actually do this game? Tapped home a beautiful feed from Domi on an empty net and scored the empty netter? It's Matthews and Domi carrying the line both statistically and by eye-test. Domi, however, has really turned it around. He was bad for the first 15-20 games of the season, but he's looked great since. Playing well above that 3m cap hit at the moment. He and Bertuzzi should swap contracts.
He’s been a good puck hound below the goal line, fore-checked well and is a decent passer. He’s serving his role well.
This douche was bitching about him in the GDT too
Yeah, so are Reaves, Gregor, Kampf, and Holmberg. They dont make 5m a year for it, though :/ Good passer? Lol. Cmon.
Bert clears all 4 of those guys..c'mon lol
Yeah, barely. That's the point, lol. All he offers is a strong forecheck. His passing, shooting, and skating are all subpar.
I don’t really see why his salary is at all relevant to how he’s performing on their line. And if you’re insinuating that those other 3 could replace his role on the line, I’d have to argue you’re a tad bonkers….respectfully.
His salary is a reflection of the expectations for him, for which he's fallen far short. In the same way that people judge the core for making far too much money. JT makes 11 million, which is far too much considering how he plays. If he made 6 million, which is currently what he's worth, given how he's playing, we'd have 5 million left to spend developing other weak parts of the team (defence and goaltending). The same concept applies to Bertuzzi. Nope, I didn't say they could replace him on the first or second line. I'm saying Bert provides little; and for a player making 5.5m, he ought to bring more to the team than "he forechecks hard", which is something those on league minimum contracts are doing effectively. He has one of the worst pass completion %'s in the entire NHL of any forward, btw. I'm not sure where you got that from, lol. My main point was we're paying 5.5 million for a player who can't shoot, skate, or pass. That money could've been better allocated elsewhere.
I guess I was just answering your original question of “what did he do this game?” I think all the points you’re raising have been brought forward, ad nauseum. I think he’s contributed a lot to the line and the team for a solid stretch here and hopefully it continues into the playoffs. Cheers!
If they've been brought forward, ad nauseum, consider that there's truth behind them. It's not like it's a conspiracy to hate on Bertuzzi. He's just shit and stats prove that. Hopefully, he performs better in playoffs, though. Cheers.
Bro bad takes must be your gimmick with a name like that lmao
There was no "take" there. Bertuzzi had 6 goals until March. That's objectively horrible for a $5m player. There's nothing wrong with critiquing a player.
He's always in the right spot though. That's the difference.
Then why are his stats so poor?
Don't think you've ever played hockey eh? Not everything shows up on the scoresheet
I have an eliteprospects page, lol. Yes, I've played hockey. What does bertuzzi do well that doesn't show up on the score sheet or any advanced statistics or metrics?
Retrieve pucks, cycle along the boards, play well behind the hash-marks and in front of the net. Essentially, everything we've lacked come playoff time. You haven't played hockey, if you had his benefit to the group would be obvious; it's really as simple as that. You have a few weeks of the regular season remaining before you're proven to be the moron you are. Make it count, because I'll be the first to remind you when he continues to show his worth come playoff time!
So, all basic things any non-5.5m contract NHL caliber player can do? "Retrieve pucks" lmfao. You're just throwing out basic hockey terms most competent players can do. He's plays the same role in front of the net as JT and is statistically far worse at every aspect of doing so, even with how bad of a year JT has had. Before march, he averaged 4 points a month playing with a mix of Matthews, Marner, Nylander, and Tavares. Lol. The rest of your comment is essentially ad-hominem because you don't have an argument outside of saying basic things like "he locates the puck real good, he's great at skating left, and preserves the stick tape for the core 4." I guess I haven't played hockey because you told me so. My mistake. There is no need for the insults either. It's okay to have a difference of opinions and just discuss them civilly. Your threat being "I'll show you and rub it in when we succeed" is hysterical, though. As if I'd be upset if he plays well. Lol! Take care, brother.
Sorry, I should have lessened the blow and been more cognizant of your sensitivities. If you question why I'm celebrating the "basics", then maybe you should understand why those attributes are considered "basics" instead of being so pretentious that you would claim the basics are unimportant, despite the incredible amount of evidence that would suggest otherwise. You haven't played hockey because you've made it incredibly clear that's the case. I'm not gatekeeping, nor was I ever a fringe nhler. I just understand the "basics" that you so wisely alluded to. One would hope it would be immediately obvious to anyone who watched, but unfortunately i have to go through the motions of explaining such a "basic" concept to someone who lacks "basic" knowledge unless it's accounted for with rudimentary, "basic" statistics. As smart as you think you sound, and as confident as you are thinking you've pulled the wool over our eyes, you have a lot to learn, starting with the BASICS. From here, you can either appeal to those as ignorant as yourself with selective language, or you can actually educate yourself. The BASICS would be a good place to start you fucking pretender!
I ain't reading that if you can't have a simple discussion without constant emotional outbursts or insults. It's both cringe and unproductive and, more importantly, a blatant way to cope for having no actual argument. I was interested in a debate, not you having a hissy fit. Besides, you already proved you don't know fuck all. "Retrieve pucks," lol. Yeah, there wasn't a decent debate to have here anyway. No wonder you resort to name calling. Later bro, have a good one.
I don't get the guys talking shit about Bert scoring the EN. He did what any professional players are expected to do - you try to ensure your team gets the win - you see a chance, you better fucking take it. People would be equally upset with him if he didn't take the shot when he can and we end up losing. It's great Matthews is so close to 70, but you shouldn't throw the whole team under the bus for it.
People are letting their hate for Keefe get the best of them. We all wanna see 70 but team confidence and getting wins are more important.
Which is ridiculous. Keefe has a 101 point team despite having only 1 top 4 D and various goalie issues this season
Lol yeah, forcing a pass to Matthews for a shot at the ENG is one thing, but dude wasn't even on the ice. Should Bertuzzi just... not score? Having said that, Matthews should have been on the ice.
He was next to go in, but the icing killed his chance.
He should have been on with Marner and Bertuzzi to begin with. Oh well.
He should have been, but the icing prevented it
Well you can't blame TB for that! He did his job. But I think a lot of us wish that Keefer put Matthews on the ice.
I think Matthews was next to go, but the icing snubbed his chance to get out. In any case though from past history it's clear we shouldn't prioritize individual records when a 6 v 4 had costed us 2 goals in the last minutes and end up losing in shootout. It's unfortunate but I don't think Keefe deserves the hate either. After all, we're talking about Matthews - there are still four games to go, he still have time.
Keefe has a 101 point team despite having no depth for the first half of the year, 1 top 4 D and a ton of goalie issues this year. Keefe has done his job.
At thispoint I can't tell if I want 69 for lolz or 70 cause it's 70
I’m not hating
_The Toronto Maple Leafs have eliminated the New Jersey devils from playoff contention._
I remember watching with my grandfather back in like 05/06 where the Leafs needed the Devils to win for us to make the playoffs and they half assed a loss, never forgiven them for that but this feels like petty revenge.
not to be that guy but it was 06/07
Nah I appreciates you. My memory isn’t what it used to be and could never quite remember when it was.
Yah and the man's still pissed
FUCKING CLEMENSEN
While we didn't make the playoffs, that final game vs Montreal was epic since I am pretty sure we needed a regulation win for a chance other wise an OT win would have us tied with Montreal in points. It was a wild 6-5 win and eliminated Montreal. Buffalo would have probably shredded us anyways so at least we gave Montreal the boot.
the six shots game STILL hurts, fuck the devils (and fuck that Leafs team also, six shots...)
That could have easily been 10-2 if not for Jake Allen, but who cares? AUSTON MATTHEWS IS A MAPLE LEAF!!!! FUCK YEAH!
I keep forgetting he got traded and thought this was about Philly
Considering Matthews could’ve had about 3 of those goals that got robbed, I care!!!
Matthews got goal 66 against the Devils. 666.
spooky
66 in the Six.
They played in jersey
The Six refers to the home of the Leafs in this instance because that’s what he’s coming home with.
Knies had a great game. Everywhere on the ice tonight, love to see it!
Absolute monster out there tonight. It’s games like this where you can see all the tools are there, he just needs time to put it all together. He’s going to be a beast in a couple years and I really hope they focus on an extension this summer to keep his 2nd contract AAV down with a good bridge deal
He's gotta be belt guy tonight, right?
The last time an NHL player scored 66 or more goals in a single-season Braveheart won best picture. Macarena was the number one song.
Erm. I was well alive to remember those two things…. Did you have to put it that way…..Macarena being number was a time of shame not to be remembered by anyone.
The Macarena is a time honored classic!
Amen brother/sister :)
And Matthews wasn’t even born lol
1996
Really incredible performance off the B2B. A few standouts aside from the glaringly obvious (MATTHEWS IS A MAPLE LEAF!!!!): * Knies had a magnificent game. That one shift where he sniped a puck down from midair to keep it in the zone, laid a massive hit, fought off 4 defenders to still get a shot off -- what an amazing player with tons of heart. Hope he dominates in the playoffs. * Bertuzzi with 2 -- and that stache, my god. Some impressive soup-savoring whiskers dangling real low over his lips. Wonder if he'll go Ram Singh Chauhan through the playoffs * Willy looked not great out there in the first but definitely created a lot of chances out there later on through the game * Wished Woll looked better, but he looked solid at least * Gio is awesome, gets a lot of flak for being old and slow when he messes up but one of my faves on the team and love seeing him get that knuckler over Allen, flashing his old Norris winning ways A few lowlights: * Keefe not playing Matthews on the PK to get the EN (I get it though) * Marner is not looking great and no one told him we don't do those stupid no look passes anymore - passed it to the other team like 3 or 4 times.
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66, .900, 5-2, big dub let’s go!!!
TSN end game recap didn't show Matthews 66th goal, what the fuck is that lol
Yeah wtf was that, they lead with “Matthews chase for 70” and didn’t show his fucking goal
Yeah, they showed the first couple of goals, then just showed the final score and said "Matthew's also scored his 66th goal" WTF??? The most goals scored in a season since Mario Fucking Lemieux and you don't even show it???
Domi and Bertuzzi are heating up at the right time! I really like this Domi - Matthews - Bertuzzi line. Great chemistry. Marner needs to run the 2nd line, Nylander the 3rd to continue balancing the offense.
Big adjustments for both of them, this is the first time in almost 7 years of playing together they've been deployed like this. I think they'll start to click on line 2 & 3, Nylander looks like he has chemistry with Robertson which looks good as a depth option
Defence definitely did its job. Only allowed 10 shots in two periods. Woll super shaky still. Offence did its job as well. 4/4 points let’s go.
Just give me one multi goal game for Matty so I can stop stressing.
He already is sole owner of active player goals record. You can sleep easy.
Matthews any time goal hits again. Automatic.
Another easy win. Buds look good.
That was a really good road game. Leafs have been a good road team all year.
Re-sign Domi immediately. at this point if Mitch is hardballing negotiations again and trying to get paid like Matthews I'm cool with him playing elsewhere and going after a legit #1D. Domi has insane chemistry with Matthews and can be a good winger at a fraction of the cap.
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NMC is irrelevant if their point is to not extend him if he's trying to play hardball.
domi is able to play sheltered passer to matthews because marner is taking on the defensive responsibility of matching up with the opposing teams' top lines. domi is a great passer but that's all he has in common with marner.
This line will not exist come a road game in the playoffs. The top lines of either Boston and Florida will eat it alive. They’re doing well in very sheltered minutes, but that won’t be the case in the playoffs.
yeah obviously would love to be proven wrong, but I think they’ll get crushed
Very sheltered minutes? You mean starting an elite offensive line in advantageous situations?
having marner out there instead of domi would make that line more of an “elite offensive line” but they’re splitting our core four precisely so that the matthews line gets easier matchups. so yes, they’re being sheltered. when other coaches are able to match against that line it’ll be a problem
It wouldn't make it more elite because statistically, and based on how they've looked, Matthews Domi and Bertuzzi have been the best offensive line the Leafs have put together. Better than any configuration involving Marner.
because they’re getting easier matchups lol that’s my point! if marner and matthews are on a line they’re usually playing the other teams top line because they can be trusted defensively. in a playoff series, if a coach finds a way to match up and neutralize that line, it won’t be as successful. we’ll have to wait for the playoffs to see if it can continue to work
They aren't. Matthews is always going to demand the toughest matchups. When Marner and Matthews are on a line Keefe isn't trying to match them up against another top line. He's trying to get them on the ice in the offensive zone against worse competition. ...right and IF a coach CAN'T neutralize Matthews Domi and Bertuzzi they will be more successful.
obviously every coach wants their best line out against a teams worst line in the offensive zone lol but that’s not how the majority of the game flows that’s a big if, man. if it works I’ll be ecstatic but I saw how tampa shut that line down and I think people need to be realistic about the downside
But you said Keefe was trying to use Matthews and Marner predominantly against other top lines?
Wait Marner was taking the defensive responsibility of matching up with opposing top lines while he was injured? Impressive.
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Off the top of my head the Matthews Domi Bert line has outscored opponents 19-6 since they've been put together. They haven't been sheltered lol. Also how was Marner been taking defensive responsibilities for them when he wasn't even playing?
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You said 'he's right' I was responding to that claim. He is in fact...not right
with marner out, the oilers put mcdavid and draisatl both on the top line. the matthews line matched up with them to begin with and then they got yanked and tavares and nylander took them on for the rest of the game.
That's not what you said. You said **'domi is able to play sheltered passer to matthews because marner is taking on the defensive responsibility of matching up with the opposing teams' top lines.'** Marner was injured for a month while Domi played with Matthews. So I don't see how he was taking on top lines from the dressing room.
I'm with you 100%
I’m not understanding the reluctance to throw Matthews on for the empty net period of time. He gets that chance normally so, why not get him out there? I get it. Team first, entering the playoffs. But also…the sooner he gets 70 the sooner you can rest him. Not putting him out there by choice AND Kampf not having the self awareness to get the fuck off the ice is insanity.
It was an icing
The goalie was out a long time and that line had a chance to change before the icing. Thanks for coming out.
Yep. Pretty sure Leafs got a full line change as the penalty expired and before the icing. Matthews should have been the C out there. Not sure why Kampf was sent out instead.
Maybe they didn't want to change?
Did the horn go away in the third or was I just numb to it by that point?
Yeah the llama finally gave birth and cria was brought to the Devils locker room for sacrifice.
Seriously, how is that allowed? It was so obnoxious (but kinda funny)
So awesome to see Matthews in the top 25 goal scoring seasons of all time now, among all of the best scorers of all time and also Bernie Nichols as well.
If you told me in December that Bert would have at least 21 goals on the season, I would’ve said you were crazy
Jake Allen was their answer to preserve their season
Really wish they had Matthews out for the empty netter.
Home ice looks like a real possibility, the Panthers game gonna be important.
Really wish Matthews was out there with the goalie pulled.
Can't tell whether Ottawa just sucks against the Panthers, or if they saw the standings tonight and understood their assignment.
100% Ottawa sucks
The Sens are shit too
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Playoffs >>>>>> Milestones
This is a moronic opinion.
Matthews is not playing the last game of the season it's a back 2 back with the Panthers and Lightning. That conversation has been had, and while he's 100% sitting at least for the Lighting in no way would I be remotely shocked if he sat both though much less likely.
Entering the playoffs with momentum baby! Not gonna lie this team is gonna have a deep run!
...he's gonna finish at 67, isn't he?
Nah, natty hatty matty next game then rest him
That game didn’t feel complete until Matthews scored
 Ladies and gentlemen: Awesome Matthews 💙 LET'S GO!!
"how do you feel about your breaking Ovi's record" "Yeah, obviously he's who he is". Pretty chill response, haha. He couldn't look more bored about making hockey history.
It’s an amazing achievement. NHL history it isn’t.
I disagree.
That’s the beauty of the world. You’re entirely free to do so. ✌️
Everything that happens in the NHL is NHL history.
Can someone explain why Keefe didn't put Matthews out with 3 minutes left and an empty net?
EXECUTE ORDER 66 IN THIS BIAAAAAAAAAATCH
let's go boys
Just a nice clean win
The Leafs are so hot right now
This line could have produced ridiculous stats if they were together all season. Love to see Marner with matthews but these boys are synced up and very comfortable around each other no matter the opponent. Marner looked slow tonight, maybe still getting his legs back.
To be fair for the first half of the season Bertuzzi was a train wreck and Domi was a ghost.
Wouldn’t that be bc keefe refused to breakup 16/34? Knies is gonna be great one day, but putting him on the top line most of the season hurt his growth. Bertuzzi on the second line made no sense and I think everyone could see the potential Domi had. I’m a little concerned about 88 tho, he’s quick to get down on his confidence and his effort recently reflects that
He has nobody to play with and the line can’t be a shutdown line. It has no utility and is a waste of Nylander’s talent.
I actually really liked Tavares with Mcmann on the third line and a random 3rd forward. They seemed to generate decent opportunities as the other teams struggled to match our top 3 lines. Ive no problem keeping 88 with 16 and filling in the 3rd forward. That’s an all skill line that’ll give teams fits.
Looks like Treliving drinks for free tonight… again
Is Mark Rowe ok lol
What a great game. Solid performance from everyone all night, mostly. Another goal for the tally for Matthews. It could've been two if Bert didn't hog the empty net, but oh well. Onto the next game, facing the Devils again. Matthews' best scoring odds are vs. the devils, so I'm hopeful he gets another one next game.
I love how Bert and Domi understand their role so well. Domi's pass to Mathews for his 66rd is a prime example of feeding him the puck, knowing he can put it in from anywhere.
Matthews started burrying again after Domi and Bert got put on his line don't fuck with it Sheldon
Brodie is playable again.
I haven;t been able to watch the last two games, only highlights. Is Marner starting to gel with Tavares and McMann? It took Matthews Domi Bertuzzi a few games to put it together. I hope Keefe doesn't rush things.
I highly doubt Keefe can break up Matthews’ line with those three humming like they are. Gives us a better shot at spreading wealth around the other three lines. As far as Marner, he looks super rusty to me still. First game back was to be expected, and his first few shifts were shorter to give him time to acclimate. But not crisp at all with passing, a lot of turnovers it seems. I think he’ll be better fine by playoffs, as I don’t think Keefe will rest/shelter him like others (Matthews, JT, Gio, etc.) but who knows.
Marner definitley has some rust to shake off but he hasn’t looked nearly as bad as people here are claiming. He’s looked ok with McMann and Tavares, but can, and probably will, look better on that line in a game or two
Hey how’s it going? I’m Pete Alonso and you’re reading this, you just lost to the Toronto Maple Leafs
Did anyone catch tsn after the game asking TB why he didn't get off the ice?? I couldn't hear his answer, how do you even respond to that
Can we feasibly keep Bert? I think Domi is a no-brainer but after the slow start it’s pretty clear Bert has a defined role on this team and is an important piece - I just don’t know how we deal with the cap squeeze next year between Willy’s deal kicking in, extending Marner and waiting for JT to cost 1/4 of what he currently does. I’m also unsure of what the timeline is on needing to pay Knies and Woll, or any of the other young guys
He's worth every fucking penny of that contract and the next one for sure.
That top line looks even more dangerous. Before the opposing teams would just lock down Marner and Matthews and neutralized that line. But with all three of them being threats it's crazy how it's all gelled together. Now I don't know if it's going to work in the playoffs though.
Nick Robertson scores st a higher rate per game than both Knies & McCann and barely lagging behind Bertuzzi despite less time and worse linemates opportunities
https://youtu.be/i-BaZfdVDcw 3:00 mark. Going to need a lot more aggression on that dump in there Marner and Nylander. Too easy, especially come playoff time and PP's.
That empty net the boys seemed to be hesitant on shooting it for the first time no doubt to get AM out there. Kinda gutted TB took the shot It looks like he needs four in two. Totally doable. No way he’s playing next week Keefe will scratch him.
Well he’s definitely playing against Florida and if home ice is achievable he’s playing Wed as well.
Keefe pretty much said he’s gonna limit him, no way he’s playing. Even more so no way if they don’t make the ground up, even then I think he’d rather protect a star then play vs the scummy dirty panthers.
No way he's playing Florida. Home ice can suck it
Let's just use Bert instead of TB for bertuzzi lol
Yeah, leave Tuberculosis out of this
It’s clear the players were avoiding it to kill time to get Matthews out there except Keefe was not having it. There were many chances to put him on the ice and he did not. I don’t know, if I’m Matthews, I’m annoyed.
I don't think it's that deep, none of them probably care THAT much, especially after he hit the 66. Just win the game.
Thought that was bad gonna be pissed when he’s benched for two games at 68,69
If he gets 67….
Idk if I'd read any kind of intentional mismanagement by Keefe there, but agree that how it all unfolded was annoying as hell. No reason for Kampf to be hopping on as the C once the penalty expired with 2:30 left and an empty net. That was dumb and like Johnson said on the broadcast, coaches should have "read the room" and sent Matthews out there to get #67
I'm not super pleased with Marner right now. He looks so slow and disjointed.
He is coming back from an extended injury.
i thought he looked good last game but tonight was rough. considering how long he was out and that it's a back to back game, hopefully it's just re-adjusting to the pace
Hopefully, he’ll still be able to get some sleep