The night after barely escaping 3-0 blown lead, the Leafs were at it again tonight. After two quick goals by Ponikarovsky, the Leafs got out to a great start, showing potential to compete for the full 60 minutes. However, like usual this was not the case, and Atlanta stormed back eventually winning the game 4-3.

The concept of playing the “full 60 minutes” seems to be in some foreign language because only once or twice out of 51 games have the leafs followed this motto. Tonight the Leafs played to their percentages showing up for approximately 16 minutes and 32 seconds. In all seriousness this has gotten rediculous, and the losses will continuosly rack up until something changes, whether its players, coaches, management, or something else which seems to effect players effort level. The leafs are now 17-25-9, sit 14th in the conference, and are back 9 points with a couple extra games played of a playoff spot. Games like these against conference teams who are competeting for a final playoff spot are crucial. However, the leafs’ ‘clutch’ level seems to be in the negatives, for they just dont show up in important games. A couple more losses within the next week or two should signify an end to the playoff dreams our beloved fans envisioned for this season.

Up next are the Tampa Bay Lightning – another team fighting for the final few playoff spots. Primeau is expected to be back in the lineup, and injured Mike Komisarek may make the trip but is probably doubtful for action until the weekend or early next week. Gustavsson should and BETTER get the start after another brutal game by Toskala. Only time will tell which team shows up Thursday night – the complete game team (occurs 5% of time), or the part-game performers (occurs 95% of time).

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