Since everyone has been talking about who should be in the line-up for Kessel, I decided to switch it up and talk about Finger. Plus, I already game my opinion
Tonight's game against the Hurricanes is exactly what the Leafs need right now. Carolina's the only team in the league that are having as much of a struggle getting wins as the Leafs. Wilson's hoping that his changes in the line-up are going to prove to be the difference between another overtime loss and a notch in the win column. However, these changes really aren't that significant in any way other than salary. The Leafs big hitting defenseman Exelby is sitting in the stands tonight while Finger is getting the start. Finger, sitting at 3.5 million dollars a season seems like a waste, playing only 4 games this far this season with one assist and a terrible -6.
Comparing Exelby to Finger, there are several variables that have to be looked at. First of all we have to remember the formula that Burke is going for when teams come to play the Leafs. Leafs are an intimidation team - when players come to Toronto, they should be scared to step onto the ice. With additions of Colton Orr, Mike Komisarek and Wayne Primeau this offseason, Exelby was another signing that would fit in perfectly. Jeff Finger, sitting at 6'1 is not a big hitter compared to Garnet Exelby, who's name alone strikes fear into my heart.
However, Finger does bring smart hockey to the Leafs third defensive pairing with Luke Schenn. That partnership is one that Wilson can throw on the ice with confidence of defensive strength. Exelby can't play positional hockey. For the majority of the game he's looking around trying to find that big hit and is willing to leave his post to make it. Finger, who doesn't shy away from the mess in front of the net, is stronger offensively and is an all around good hockey player. Not great, but a defenseman who can get the job done when called upon.
So with Exelby out of the line up, look for Orr to be put on more for intimidation's sake. Finger is strong on the puck and has a pretty nice shot from the point. Exelby can't play his position but can make punishing hits. Finger is paid 3.5 million a year. Exelby, at 1.7 million a year, is more 'bang' for Burke's buck... get it?
I think the move is smart. Since the Leafs are looking for their second win and can't afford bad positional play that could lead to a goal, having Exelby on the point could lead to some problems. Let's hope this change, along with Mitchell for Stajan, will lead to another Leafs win.
About Me
- Bone
- Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- As a born and brought up fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Bone watches the Leafs while located in the heart of Habs territory. He's seen the greatness of Clark and Gilmour and their fight in 1993, but has also seen the times of Hal Gill and Wozniewski and their slow, bonehead style hockey. Bone is a Leafs optimist at times but knows that there is still an unfortunate ultimate reality that all Leafs fans must realize during the current rebuilding process.
2 comments:
The Leafs have to move a defenceman sometime this year. I believe they will move White unless a team that Kabs likes comes along and offers a the prospect, and the 1st draft choice that Burke correctly is demanding.
White, if he keeps up his play might get a second and a prospect, or a second and a specialist (p-Kill or PP) Lets hope White continues to impress so we can start the restocking of picks.
The Leafs definitely need to move a defenseman. We already have one extra and if Van Ryn recovers, there could even be a second defenseman on the market. However, it's always good to have a couple on the farm just in case of injuries. When Van Ryn isn't injured, I love the way he plays. He would be an asset to our team but this surgery that he's going through could be career ending. Let's hope for the best!
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