I'll just come right out and admit it: I'm cheering for the Toronto Maple Leafs to make the playoffs.
To become true Stanley Cup Champions in my eyes, the Ottawa Senators will simply have to go through Toronto. Nothing else would properly bookend the string of humiliating regular season blowouts, avenge four previous playoff horrors and confirm beyond a shadow of a doubt that the Sens have thoroughly and completely outclassed their rivals in 05-06 than a supplemental first round beating.
Having Leaf Nation simply fade out of the picture in a relatively quiet and painless fashion will not do the Battle of Ontario justice. It would be more appropriate to see them teased into a sincere belief that yet another upset is possible, to gradually sell themselves on the possibility that this could be their year and to piece their shattered confidence back together in the remaining 13 games -- only to be abruptly hauled back down to the cold ice with a crunching thud. As the starry haze wears off and vision is restored, their first sight will be that of Gary Bettman making an important center ice presentation to Captain Daniel Alfredsson. Truly an experience that will scar several generations of Torontonians and something Sens fans ought to throw their support behind.
We're waiting for you, T.O. Can you get it together and make our dream season come true?
On a slightly related note, I've attached a preliminary parade route for discussion.
Don't forget Toronto's parade route.
ReplyDeleteI'd have thought the Leafs parade would end in Michigan. But then I recalled they're not accepting Toronto's garbage much longer.
ReplyDeleteojj that was good thm, I'll give ya that one. but jay, I like you standing up for your team even when things dont look their best. that is a true fan. Congrats to you.
ReplyDeleteIsn't planning the parade before the win basically the biggest jinx in the history of sport? Especially before the playoffs even start?
ReplyDeleteLiving only a couple of blocks from Bank St and having already invited scores of people to a post-parade party, I hope the team sticks to the traditional route. Having an event at Scotiabank Place as well would be appropriate.
ReplyDeleteIf the Leafs play tonight like they did on Thursday, do you think MLSE will make them walk back to Toronto?
I too am hoping the Sens can meet the Leafs in the first round.The BOO is of course one of the best rivalries in hockey and certainly gives both fans and media lots to chew on.I don't want to see it fade regardless of either team not being there.
ReplyDeleteAlas there will be no Battle of Ontario this year or next year for that matter.The Leafs will fall into the same old trap of trying to buy the cup with URFAs and washed up superstars.Leaf Nation demands nostalga and for this reason I feel the BOO may be just a regular season event for the near future.
Ottawa's guaranteed first round playoff exit (no matter who they play) is going to be hilarious.
ReplyDeleteYes it is, yes it is.
ReplyDeleteWhat happened to that positive attitude from Laff fans early in the season?
ReplyDeleteMaybe T-dot (70 pts, 12th place) can make up the difference in their three games upcoming against Buffalo (93). (Montreal (77, 8th) has to face Boston (68) thrice. Atlanta (76) gets TB (81) three times.) The Islanders (71) and Florida (71), of course, are now also in the mix above Toronto.