The Leafs' Sabres blowout may have just forced the trade deadline question nobody wanted
Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
The Maple Leafs' blowout loss to the Buffalo Sabres just essentially gave everyone the pressing question: Does Toronto start the sell-off?
Another home game, another loss for the Toronto Maple Leafs as they have now dropped five in a row and didn't come away with a win during their five-game homestand.
It was another lifeless effort that seemed positive but quickly fell apart, and even Craig Berube was so fed up he basically told his team they are incapable of preventing the opponents from scoring and he's seemingly at his wit's end.
Time to start the fire sale in Toronto
But this loss did more than just push the Maple Leafs down the standings however, as it really accelerated the debate over whether they should still think of buying or selling assets and for some -- it's time to clean house.
Justin Bourne and Sam McKee were talking the Maple Leafs' loss and how bad things are currently going and it feels like the time for anger and frustration is over and we have a clear answer:
My overwhelming emotion - and it's not even close - is relief... I spent so long trying to find ways for them to get back, but it's not happening; it's sell time.
There's no real debate anymore for both Bourne and McKee as they realize (as do most fans) that this season is a lost cause.
Leafs should sell high on their best assets and admit this season was a loss
So what now? Is there even a chance for Toronto to get things back on track before they overcommit to selling?
Realistically, no. This team is certainly not a Cup contender and they are hanging on for dear life when it comes to making the playoffs and as painful as it may be for fans who are used to success; it's time to change.
Sell high on your best NHL assets right now, which include Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Bobby McMann and Scott Laughton (though the latter two may be in the midst of extending). Trade one of the three goalies you have and get some blueline help.
The debate on whether or not to fire Craig Berube is also a tough one, as it's clear he had success and is an accomplished coach, but it may be time to get a younger and more creative voice to help usher in an actual new identity.
The team can't make a save, they can't defend in their own zone, they're scoring in bunches but it matters none and with their coach throwing his hands up and saying he's unsure where to go then all signs point to one thing: Sell, sell, sell.
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