Though the Leafs may have been blessed with quite possibly the easiest starting schedule in the NHL, with a week off and games against Montreal, Colorado, Winnipeg, Ottawa and Calgary; their hot start can't help but leave a Leaf fan smitten. Reimer has been all-around solid between the pipes, Kessel is hotter than anyone could have imagined, Phaneuf is playing the hockey that saw him score 20 goals in a season, and unlikely heros like Gardiner, Lupul and Steckel have impressed. Despite this, the Leafs have only played 5 games, and they started last season with the same 4-0-1 record; only to go 1-8-2 in their next 11 games. With that said, the Leafs' next 5 games are against Boston, Montreal, Philadelphia, New York Rangers, and Pittsburg; as they will have put their almost impeccable record against some serious Eastern Conference contenders.
This hot start has without a doubt been fuelled by Phil Kessel's 12 points in 5 games. Although, do consider that Kessel started last season with 7 goals and 9 points in 8 games before going pointless for his next 7 games, as well as having a 14 game goal-less drought during the mid-point of the season. Though there is a massive change in his game this year as he is playing two-way hockey and going hard to the net; Kessel's play should be evaluated after the 15-20 game mark, as he has proven to be extremely streaky throughout his young career.
In terms of sure things on the Leafs squad, Steckel is without a doubt that in the face-off circle, winning 69 of his 99 thus far. Though he may be somewhat one-dimensional, his superior defensive play as well an impeccable record in the face-off circle has been an underlying factor to the Leafs success. Probably Burke's most underrated move this off-season.
With all that said, the Leafs have me goin' right now- haven't been this excited about watching Leafs hockey in quite some time. Pumped for the Bruins game tomorrow.
