It’s always difficult being on the wrong end of an instant classic.
Unfortunately, that’s what happened to the Toronto Blue Jays on Monday night as they fell 6-5 in 18 innings to the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 3 of the World Series. At that point, it’s anyone’s game, and unfortunately, the Dodgers possess a lineup that would give an All-Star team a run for its money.
At any rate, we discussed everything surrounding the game for a few minutes to kick off the Tuesday edition of Leafs Morning Take. Additionally, we previewed Frozen Frenzy: 16 games, 16 different start times (although the Leafs game was pushed back 15 minutes to cater to the World Series crowd). This is a concept introduced by ESPN a few years ago.
Then, we began previewing Toronto’s home date with the Calgary Flames. You know Nazem Kadri’s going to garner tons of spotlight. And so is John Tavares. With a goal tonight, the Oakville native can become the 49th player in NHL history to pot 500 career goals. Unsurprisingly, Tavares is off to another red-hot start. From Day 1 of his career, he’s been the model of consistency. That has never wavered. All in all, we expect a goalie duel between Anthony Stolarz and Dustin Wolf. Meantime, William Nylander, who was born in Calgary, was officially labeled as a game-time decision. Also, we’re curious to see what Sammy Blais can potentially bring to the table. He’s expected to make his Maple Leafs debut if Nylander can’t go. Calle Jarnkrok won’t play.
After that, former Leaf and Flame Matt Stajan dropped by the show. Firstly, Staj took a strole down memory lane and remembered October 14th, 2006, the night Mats Sundin potted a hat-trick – including a shorthanded OT winner – to hit the 500-goal plateau. Additionally, Stajan dished on Tavares’ pursuit of the elite milestone and what makes him so great. On top of that, we talked some Auston Matthews. Even though the Leafs’ captain has potted five goals in nine outings so far this season, he still hasn’t put forth a signature performance just yet. Lastly, Stajan broke down Calgary’s dismal 2-7-1 start and how tough it is for season-long expectations when you have a putrid October.
Please make a note to join us for the Wednesday edition of Leafs Morning Take (11 AM ET). We’ll recap Leafs/Flames and preview Toronto’s visit to Columbus. Also, Ryan Leslie, Maple Leafs team host, will drop by the show once again.
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