It will be interesting and a surprise as to whom the final pairing on defense will be to start the season. The Leafs defense needed some work last season and it looks as if Dermott is leading the pack with Holl, Rosen and newcomer Ozhiganov battling it out. Are you surprised that Connor Carrick is not in the mix?
Last season Carrick didn’t get a sniff of playoff action, perhaps the writing was on the wall? I would imagine Babcock will make his final decision after tonight’s game as the Leafs will be icing a quality lineup against his former Red Wings team. Look for Dermott to be a shoe in on that third pairing and keep a close eye in tonight’s game on how he fairs with his defensive partner(s).
If Carrick fails to make the Leafs roster he will go on waivers before being sent down to the Marlies (AHL). The Leafs scooped up Carrick from the Capitals back in 2016 and he’s played 114 games for the Buds.
Whomever Babcock and his henchmen decide on, I am hoping it brings stability to the third pairing and helps solidify the back end. Great to see some young prospects ripen through the system and make their way up to the big show.
Dubas, the Leafs General Manager has matured with the Marlies and has a good grasp on what prospects he has and what strengths and weakness the organization has throughout. This is excellent for the Leafs of now and the future. Dubas will be sitting in the ivory tower watching the Maple Leafs this season; very impressive. Hopefully his big signing in Tavares pays off as handsomely as I expect it will. Nothing shy of legendary that addition was and just months after being appointed the position and winning a Calder Cup with the Marlies.
There is still some tough work ahead signing Nylander and future brain scratching while he signs both Matthews and Marner next summer.
No doubt Dubas has a great job but he sure has some heavy duty lifting ahead!
Enjoy the game and get ready for puck drop next Wednesdays, can’t wait to eat the Habs alive!!
Thanks for reading.