Tavares Hints at Major Flaw in Leafs' Locker Room
After yesterday's practice, John Tavares, the captain of the Toronto team, spoke with the media. When he was asked about the mood in the locker room, his answer was both encouraging and worrying.
Tavares Hints at Major Flaw in Leafs' Locker Room
At first glance, his comments are encouraging :
"Guys are upbeat. Short memory, turn the page and get physically and mentally ready to get back at it."
Their focus on the next game is a good thing.
However, Tavares' comments may highlight a deeper problem within the Leafs.
After their last loss, where they failed to eliminate the Lightning, they shouldn't be "upbeat".
It could also signify that they lack competitiveness. If the last loss didn't make them feel sour, there's a problem.
They should be angry and use that anger to perform better in the next game. One can wonder how they can beat Tampa without this "killer instinct".
The Leafs won back-to-back games in Tampa on game three and four. If they bring the same energy to tonight's game, everything should be fine.
But if a game seven is required, the pressure could sink the Leafs and their hopes of finally passing the first round.
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