Leafs win their third game in a row to start the pre-season.
I know it’s just preseason but the Mike Babcock era has started off well. I was at the first game at the ACC and saw a sound defensive team. Much different than anything I have seen before from the Maple Leafs.
No matter who is in the lineup the team play looks very similar, which is great for the kids that are getting a chance to play in the system they will be playing in with the Marlies or Leafs in the future.
Wiliam Nylander keeps on showing that he is NHL ready. His passing and playmaking abilities are through the roof. With Kessel gone Nylander is by the best passer/playmaker on the Maple Leafs. His play shows he understands the North American game. He hits, he takes hits, and at least twice a game he shows off his hockey IQ with by stealing the puck away from the opposition in the defensive zone.
Jake Gardiner again had a great game. He looks lost and defensively out of position at times, but his skating and offensive upside were on full display.
- Shahriar Balouchi
William Nylander's offensive instincts are unreal. Leivo wasn't even close to expecting that first pass. pic.twitter.com/wsVN9xuGhB
— Jeff Veillette (@JeffVeillette) September 23, 2015