Mutual Interest Between Maple Leafs and Corey Perry…
Perry, a historically challenging adversary for the Maple Leafs, entered free agency earlier this year after leaving the Chicago Blackhawks, reportedly due to an incident involving alcohol, as disclosed by Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff.
Recently, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman gave his clearance for Perry’s return to the league, with Pierre LeBrun of TSN emphasizing that it was more about Perry seeking permission to initiate the comeback process rather than clearance from a suspension.
In response to his release from the Blackhawks, Perry expressed remorse and a commitment to addressing his alcohol-related struggles earlier this season. He mentioned working with mental health and substance abuse experts to ensure such incidents don’t recur. Despite Perry’s ties to London, Frank Seravalli, on the Leafs Morning Take, raised questions about the Maple Leafs’ willingness to sign him, considering uncertainties surrounding his departure from the Blackhawks and potential cap space constraints.
The prospect of Perry joining the Maple Leafs prompts inquiries into the organization’s strategy for playoff aspirations. Historically known for acquiring veterans on affordable contracts, this would mark a new direction under GM Brad Treliving. Perry remains a productive player, making the potential signing a calculated risk for the Leafs.
PWHL Toronto aims for early season power-play boost…
PWHL Toronto is aiming to enhance its early-season power-play performance as it faces Ottawa in a Saturday matinee game. Despite a 1-2 start to the PWHL campaign, head coach Troy Ryan remains confident in the team’s talent. The recent 3-1 loss to Minnesota showcased Toronto’s dominance in individual periods, yet they struggled to convert it into tangible results.
In the first game against New York, Toronto dominated the second period but couldn’t score. In the rematch on U.S. ice, they again dominated the second period but only tied before securing a win in the third. In the third game against Minnesota, Toronto dominated the first period but trailed 1-0 in the second, leading to the eventual loss.
Despite these periods of dominance, Toronto has been unable to maintain momentum. The power play, in particular, has been a challenge, with only one goal in 11 attempts. Coach Ryan acknowledges the need for improvement in the power play but is not surprised by the initial struggles. Some players, including national team players like Sarah Nurse, are adjusting to new roles on the Toronto power play.
Ryan is patient, emphasizing the learning curve and the necessity of reps for players to become comfortable. While acknowledging that adjustments may be made, he doesn’t anticipate radical changes to the power-play personnel. He plans to introduce Victoria Bach to one of the units in the coming weeks, noting her natural ability on the power play.
Bach, though ineligible for games until February 1, has been practicing with the team throughout January. Despite the recent loss in Minnesota, Toronto is set to return to the ice on Saturday to face Ottawa at the Mattamy Athletic Centre at 1 p.m., hoping to improve their power-play performance and overall results.
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