BLeP wrote:
Pittsburghs defense was decimated in the playoffs. They won with a patchwork crew. So it can definitely be done.
The Leafs had some issues protecting leads last year. This year their d is better. Gardiner keeps improving and is a legit top pair guy. Maybe not a #1 yet but definitely a #2 guy. Rielly is still improving and Zaitsev looks better. They picked up Borgman from Sweden and he looks good. Carrick is fine for a #5/6 D. My only concern is Ron Hainsey.
Oh and did I mention that Hainsey was on Pittsburghs top D pair last year when the won the cup?
I am not saying they are going to win. I am just saying that they are fully capable of winning. Every team has flaws. I think the Leafs can outscore their flaws.
Well sure, as of now there are about 20 fanbases that are saying 'I'm not saying they'll win, but they're fully capable of winning'. I mean, I could say the same about the B's - one of the single best lines in hockey and an above average #2 scoring line, very strong 4th line, solid top-pair, two budding star D-men that will get better as the year goes on and one of the 10 best goalies in hockey. But realistically, they're a 5/6 seed type that would need lots of luck along the way and is likely a 1st round loser.
I'm not telling you what you can and can't believe, I just think it's super premature to consider them a Cup contender without seeing how the defense shakes out for a bit, and for that matter how the team responds to the playoff grind. It typically takes young teams a few turns through the playoff slog to get to the Finals, I don't think Toronto is any different. Lots of talent on that roster but they're a few D and a few years away imo.