Scouting the Enemy: Anaheim Ducks vs. Toronto Maple Leafs

Mar 10, 2014; Anaheim, CA, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs right wing David Clarkson (71) trips over Anaheim Ducks goalie Jonas Hiller (1) during the third period at Honda Center. The Toronto Maple Leafs defeated the Anaheim Ducks 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

2. The Maple Leafs last season played a lot of games last season while dressing a fourth line with enforcers, such as Colton Orr and Frazer McLaren. This season, the Leafs have approached the roster differently, using players such as Holland and Richard Panik more minutes instead, who aren’t as physical, but offer more skill. With today’s emphasis on being able to roll four lines with skill and scoring ability, how has this change affected the Maple Leafs roster?

Jeffrey: The change in philosophy has definitely lead to success, although I wouldn’t say that it’s all Randy Carlyle. I think that this is being forced on him. However, it is working out for them. Players like Brandon Kozun, Panik, Mike Santorelli, Daniel Winnik and Leo Komarov have provided the Leafs tremendous depth and allow the Leafs to actually have four lines that can all put the puck in the net. While this is no guarantee that the Leafs will make the playoffs, it is a sign that the Leafs are getting better.