As often comes with the territory of playing (or coaching) in Toronto, concerns, critiques, and suggestions are everywhere. This season, there are a number of issues regarding Sheldon Keefe’s coaching and the current state of the Maple Leafs.
There’s no question that, were the Maple Leafs’ drowning in wins and in first place in the NHL, this criticism would be a non-issue. Alas, that’s not the case. It’s been a rollercoaster season, and Maple Leafs’ fans – as they tend to do – are not holding back about what they think is the issue. The blame game can be a moving target with fans – probably from all teams; however, it seems especially true from the Maple Leafs.
For example, it used to be that Justin Holl was the target of fans who couldn’t wait to see him gone. Now he is. Before Holl, it was defenseman Jake Gardiner. He’s gone, too. And, over the past year, William Nylander was the target of fans’ ire. However, he seemed to have been replaced by Mitch Marner. Does that mean Marner will be gone as well?
Lately, fans have taken aim at Maple Leafs head coach Keefe and made him their pinata. Opinions about Keefe’s coaching and the team’s overall performance have been shared widely and loudly. Fans seem to be swinging, even if a little blindfolded.
Some Fans See Keefe Makes Questionable Decisions
First, Maple Leafs fans are demanding change. Some are suggesting that a shakeup in the team’s culture or a substantial trade could be the remedy. Now that Keefe is calling for accountability by players, fans believe the responsibility should also extend to key players such as John Tavares and the rest of the Core Four.
Sheldon Keefe on the plan for Dennis Hildeby: “We’ll get him up to speed at the NHL level… NHL shooters are a different animal as he may have learned when Auston came down and blew one by him in one of the first drills.
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