The Maple Leafs did not record their 9th win of last season until December 4th. With their 4-1 win over the Blue Jackets yesterday night, they have acheived that by the beginning of November.
With that win, the Leafs are 1st overall in the NHL, and are the youngest team in the league as well. What is remarkable about their 9-3-1 start to the season is the fact they have done it with three goalies (Reimer, Gustavsson and Scrivens) and with the leagues last ranked power play.
Phil Kessel leads all forwards in goals, points and +/-, while linemat, Joffrey Lupul has took off as well. Lupul is 3rd in league scoring with 8 goals, and he recorded a natural hat-trick, Wednesday night against New Jersey.
With a winnable 6 gamed ahead, the Maple Leafs must take advantage of the weaker schedule. If they can win 20 or more games by Christmas, they will be in primed shape to make a run to the playoffs.
A key aspect to the Maple Leafs have been their depth. They can roll three scoring lines and attack using speed. Off the rush, the Maple Leafs are one of the best teams in the league. 5 on 5 they are a plus 13, which is crucial for teams in the playoff hunt.
If the Leafs can come out of October with 14-16 wins, they will be setting themselves up for success.
Here is to an interesting November.
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