TORONTO | Mark Giordano has a ton of experience with 1,079 NHL games. At 39, the Maple Leafs defenseman now has enough life to break a new pair of skates and chat with a small contingent of Montreal reporters.
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“I have to spend almost 15 pairs in total in a season, I change them about every six games, he replied. But when I play a little less well, I tend to change them even faster. That’s why I can do two things at the same time. I usually try on new skates and lace them up quickly. »
Giordano found himself in the Maple Leafs’ locker room at their training center in Etobicoke on the eve of the Montreal Canadiens’ visit to Scotiabank Arena.
The former Calgary Flames captain didn’t just talk about his propensity to modify his gear. He also slipped a few words on the eternal rivals of the Leafs, the Habs.
“We know the reality of the Canadian (reconstruction), but I really like the way this team plays, noted Giordano. They play with heart and it’s like their coach. »
“I played against Marty in the NHL and got to know him a bit. I know he always worked excessively hard. He seeks to build a team faithful to his identity. His players bought his system. I think they already have a good identity, they never give up and they work. »
zero in two
If the Leafs still dream of a long run in the playoffs and they still have a good season, they have not yet won against CH this season.
The Canadiens won 4-3 and 3-2 in overtime. Both times were on the Bell Center ice rink.
“Yes, it adds to our motivation,” replied Giordano. Even last year, the Canadian had obtained two victories against us. We are not happy with our results against Montreal. The CH will land for the first time this year in Toronto. We will need to play well, we want to collect all the points possible for the playoff race. »
“The Canadian has nothing to envy anyone in terms of speed and transition game,” added captain John Tavares. I watched a few Canadian games lately. There are several new faces, but they keep the same recipe. They work. I always look forward to a game against Montreal because of the great history between the two teams. »
Nylander at its peak
On a streak with five points in his last two games, William Nylander could knock on the door of a 100-point season for the first time. With 65 points (30 goals, 35 assists), he is heading for a 95-point campaign.
The 26-year-old winger set a career-high last year with 80 points.
“I feel like I hit another level this year,” Nylander said. But I just want to keep up the pace. There are big names here in Toronto with Matthews, Marner and Tavaves. I don’t mind if we talk less often than I do. I’m just doing my job and I’m lucky to play with good players. »
Used on the right wing with Auston Matthews and Michael Bunting, Nylander scored his 30th goal Wednesday against the Blackhawks. It was the third time in his career that he had made this set.
“I wouldn’t say Willy is in the shadows,” Tavares said. I prefer to speak of an evolution in his case, he becomes more and more constant. He’s always had the talent and determination, but he’s working even harder to become an elite forward in this league. »
- Sick, goalkeeper Ilya Samsonov did not participate in training. In the event of his absence, Joseph Woll could get the start. On the blue line, Justin Holl will find his place at the expense of Conor Timmins.