Two games in and two road wins, so far so good. One goal games, both of them.
That is why last year collapse was so puzzling. Then again, Boston loss the Cup in a couple of shifts, it could happen to anybody.
Actually, tonight was a 3-1 win, but notice at the end, the Leafs put them away. The had killer instinct to put them away, Bolland with his second goal of the game, with Lupul right in there digging for it too.
This team is going to be different.
Bolland will be a difference maker on this particular Leafs team. Along with Clarkson. They are not impact players. Put Bolland and Clarkson on a bad team, that team probably will remain bad. But put them on this Leafs team, they will make a big difference. The Leafs are a legit team, a playoff team.
Bolland will not be minus 10 like Graborski was, and the Leafs should have won that series.
I like to see Bolland play with Kessel a few times. Why not?
Even though Bozak is playing well, the secret seems to be if you are the center, give Kessel the puck and get into position.
Those two Bolland goals, a very good play only a skilled player like Lupul is able to do for the set to the first goal, then the clincher a rebound after Lupul had a chance.
One thing that seems apparent after only one start, is that Beiner is better at the shoot out than Riemer. Simmons did not have a chance on that penalty shot. He was going too slow and Beiner was out so far. Simmons was going too slow to deke and there was nothing to shoot at. One of the dullest penalty shots we will see.
Beiner will probably get the home opener start.