Give Jack Campbell More Starts
Before I begin this second point, I want to preface by saying this suggestion is assuming that the resumption of play kicks off with the final 12 regular-season games.
With that out of the way, it was quickly apparent that Campbell was the backup goalie Leafs fans have been waiting years for. One that can ease Frederik Andersen’s workload and provide some critical wins that the team often took for granted.
But in his early showings donning in the Blue and White, Campbell demonstrated that he could do more than knock a few games off Andersen’s schedule.
While the sample size is small and should be taken with a grain of salt, Campbell’s early returns were very promising as he was a calming presence in the crease. It’s something the Leafs hadn’t boasted in a backup goalie since Curtis McElhinney, proof of just how important a quality backup goalie truly is to a team’s success.
It’s no secret that Andersen struggled the past campaign and posted uncharacteristic numbers in comparison to past seasons, leading to questions surrounding his future with the team. While it’s a tad extreme to cut ties with him too soon, he does need some rest to avoid being burned out when the Leafs will need him at his best.
Which is why it might be a good idea to give Campbell some more starts down the stretch. He is not going to outright replace Andersen, but will instead give the Leafs another quality option to man the cage and give his team a chance to win.
And if his confidence grows along with the results, then it could lead to a goalie tandem system that is similar to what the Boston Bruins implement.
Assuming the return of hockey starts with the remaining regular-season games, the Leafs should seriously consider bestowing Campbell extra starts.