We do this every year Leafs Nation, it is the start of a new season, which means a renewed sense of optimism within Leaf fans as they should because it is a new season of hockey here in the 416. However, I think and honestly believe besides probably not getting a new goal song but we aren’t here to bitch about Hall & Oates. I’m here because I’ll be viewing the 23-24 season the same way I viewed the 22-23 season, that being the regular season means nothing and that it is all about what they do from April 0nward. I’m sorry but this team is judged off the scoring and Matthews could get 200 points and if they don’t make the conference finals it all means nothing.

Now you may be asking yourself, Griff why are you like this and I’m going to keep this clear from someone on camera who was thrilled with a first round win at a St Louis.

@st.louis.mississauga

Post-game thoughts from last night… #leafsnation #hometeam #playoffs #mississauga #mississaugaontario

♬ original sound – St Louis Mississauga

Now back to the article, if you remember my June piece on the Leafs, I stated that something had to be done with the core and so far nothing has been done and nothing was because that’s the way the Toronto Maple Leafs bend. It is the same core and the pieces around them upgraded with Tyler Bertuzzi, Max Domi etc coming into the fold. I still have my doubts about them because you can’t be disappointed if you’ve set yourself up for failure.

I’m not saying don’t get excited, after all, Justin Holl is off of the Maple Leafs now which thank god, but know that the regular season always comes with a 6-month marathon that ends with a sprint to the cup that well leaves the Leafs Nation every year asking what more can do we to do the thing that hasn’t been done in nearly 60 years. Also a message from me to the Maple Leafs, the Jays shit the bed, and the Patriots are bad so it’s up to you to save my sporting mental health, good luck.