The buds are shaping into form and at the perfect time, as get the home cooking ready for the holidays, 13 of the next 19 games are at home.

After a couple of tough nights in the Sunshine State, the Maple Leafs looked like their October selves as they scored early and often against Keith Kinkaid and the Devils.

Fortunately for me, I was driving home for most of the first period so I had the lovely opportunity to hear the legend himself, Joe Bowen.

Even though the tv broadcast last night was awesome, as per usual, there is nothing better than hearing Bonsie do his thing during a Leafs game.

#BringBackBowen

Back to the ice.

Some quick shift hot takes:

Auston Matthews is starting to look like his old self. You can tell because he’s not shying away from contact and is willing to shoot the puck from anywhere again.

Johnny T had a big game. At 11 mil per, he needs to be a consistent force for the blue and white, and it appears he’s going to have a monster year statistically.

Morgan Rielly looked possessed Tuesday night. From his crafty defensive tactics to jumping in the rush at the perfect time, he’s a serious contender for the Norris this season. Somewhere Brian Burke is saying I told you so.

Patrick Marleau scores his 544th career goal, tying Maurice “Rocket” Richard for the 30th-most in NHL history. It took Marleau 631 more games than Richard to reach 544 goals.

The 4th line of Brown, Lindholm and Ennis are starting to show some chemistry out there. Watch the celly after Ennis’ second goal, even got the handshake down to a tee….barely.

Freddie was sharp when he needed to be. Don’t have to make all the saves, just make the ones you’re supposed to.

ICYMI – enjoy the game, the Leafs were unreal, the Devils stunk.