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OAKVILLE BEAVER Friday, October 2, 2009 · 24 Surveying the team and making hockey predictions By Clayton Ward-Theriault GRADE 12, T. A. BLAKELOCK O nce again we are heading into the NHL regular season, and no one knows what to think of the always talked about Toronto Maple Leafs. It is for certain that the Leafs have improved from last year, especially on defence. In his first full off-season as GM and owner, Brian Burke pulled off some great deals and improved the team's defence considerably. He acquired Garnet Exelby and Colin Stuart from the Thrashers in exchange for Pavel Kubina and the rights to forward Tim Stapleton. He also acquired UFA D man Mike Komisarek and Francois Beauchemin. Wayne Primeau was also added, bringing the team the presence of a veteran player. Also signed on July 1 was tough guy Colton Orr who was secured with a four-year, $4-million contract. Rookie sensation Nazem Kadri of the London Knights was selected eighth overall by the Leafs in this year's entry draft. Tyler Bozak was signed to an entry-level contract while the Leafs also obtained Viktor Stalberg. Rickard Wallin of the Swiss National League A was signed as well. Rookie Carl Gunnarsson accepted an entry-level contract, as did Jay Rosehill. In goal, Justin Pogge was traded to the Anaheim Ducks for a conditional draft pick in 2011. The highly-touted Jonas `The Monster' Gustavsson, who was sought after by many teams, chose the Leafs to tend goal -- alongside Vesa Toskala. "I'm going to try to steal as $ many games from Vesa Toskala as I can," said Gustavsson. "I'm a goalie and I want to play... I know the best goalie gets the ice time and if I play good I'm going to get the chance. We will be good teammates and try to push ourselves, but my goal is to be the No. 1 goalie." He was then asked about the intensity in T.O. "For the most part I like (the attention). It doesn't matter what people say about me, I know if I play good or if I play bad...I like when lots of people are getting involved. In Toronto, everybody talks about hockey. I like to be in the heat," he said. This year, the competition will definitely be exciting for the role of starting goalie in Toronto. The only big piece of the puzzle that was missing on the Leafs was a top-six forward. I felt the best UFA forward was Marian Gaborik, and thought he would fit as a Leaf, but he went to the Rangers. So eventually, Brian Burke traded for Phil Kessel of the Boston Bruins, acquiring the young forward for their first and second picks in 2010 and number two pick in 2011. It seemed to be a hefty price, but I believe Kessel will prove to be a very good addition to a needy Maple Leafs team. Overall, I believe this Leafs squad will make it into the playoffs as the number eight seed in the Eastern Conference. In the big picture of the NHL, I firmly believe the San Jose Sharks and the Boston Bruins will contend for Lord Stanley's Cup. Boston will win it in seven games. 39 o.a.c. as low as 95 9 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU BETTER $3300 Up to per month ST THE BIGGE In Tax Credit & Instant Rebate DON'T MISS *Free central air O E OF LIMITED TIM UT! (Installation Extra) SALE R! FE Financing Available * Call For Details * OVER 60,000 SATISFIED CUSTOMERS Plus: Plus NO Payment NO Interest For 6 Months O.A.C. O AC FREE CENTRAL AIR E ENTRAL A R SCRATCH Purchase a Hi Efficiency Furnace and Receive a chase Reserve now and you will receive a central air absolutely free. This is a great opportunity to replace your old inefficient furnace and air conditioner with hi efficiency and greatly reduce your utility bill. A chance to win a Call today to book an appointment with our Professional Home Comfort Advisors. furnace & central air. See store for details. LIMITED QUANTITIES AVAILABLE. As of April 1st, 2009 Government Rebate has increased by 25%. Best opportunity to get your new furnace & A/C - the prices will never be better! * & WIN * 905-849-4998 www.aireone.com 1-888-827-2665 9 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU BETTER *See dealer for details A+ Rating