Andrew Boehmer
: My answer is slightly biased because I was able to watch my recorded Toronto Maple Leafs v. Canadiens game before answering the question.
Miro Aaltonen really impressed me with his play during that game, so much that I’d comfortably say that it’s his position to lose at this point. I don’t think that Mike Babcock is the type of coach to play head games, so saying that the fourth line center spot is up for grabs must have been legit. Aaltonen can improve his faceoff win percentage as he adjusts to the speed of the NHL. I’m not worried in that department because he’ll prove to be a valuable asset on the penalty kill.
As for the bottom pairing back on the blueline, I think it’s safe to say that Connor Carrick has that spot locked on the right side. For the left, it’s Calle Rosen’s to lose and I think the only two guys vying for his spot are still in the running. Both Andreas Borgman and Travis Dermott have had strong showings so far, but Rosen’s being praised by Babs on all kinds of levels that you just can’t compete with. Martin Marincin is officially in the rearview mirror for me, I just can’t trust him on the ice. He’s a defensive liability and I’d be happy receiving future considerations from the Hartford Whalers in exchange for them taking Marincin out of Toronto. I’m sure he’s a quality guy, but hockey’s a business and it’s not always rosen. See what I did there?
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