NHL analyst critiques Scotiabank Arena atmosphere, highlights Leafs fans' enthusiasm at away games

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Apr 02, 2024 17:05 GMT

NHL analyst Ryan Whitney recently raised some intriguing points regarding the atmosphere at Scotiabank Arena, home to the Toronto Maple Leafs. In a video shared by Spittin' Chiclets, Whitney expressed his concerns about the subdued ambiance within the arena, contrasting it with the energy exhibited by Toronto fans at away games.

Whitney's commentary shed light on the noticeable enthusiasm of Toronto supporters when the team plays on the road. He emphasized their presence in various opposing arenas, noting:

"When these normal blue-collar Leafs fans can go into other buildings, they're wild and crazy.

"Their presence in Buffalo, and it's always been like that, but there are presence everywhere. It really gives me some serious thought on your yacht club vibe of the Scotiabank Arena."

Whitney's critique extends to the impact of the subdued atmosphere on the Toronto players themselves. He expressed sympathy for the team, lamenting that they must contend with the "morgue" of Scotiabank Arena during home games.

"And it makes me feel so bad for the Leafs players that they have to deal with this morgue of this Scotiabank Arena when they are playing at home."

One of the most striking observations made by Whitney is the preference exhibited by Toronto players for away games:

"These guys would rather play on the road. Well, they have three home barns. They have Buffalo, Ottawa and Toronto. Buddy, when they're down in Florida, it's all Leafs fans."

Leafs' 6-4 victory over Florida Panthers in Scotiabank Arena

Despite Ryan Whitney's comments, the Leafs were unfazed on their home soil. Auston Matthews showcased his skills, tallying his NHL-leading 61st and 62nd goals alongside an assist in Toronto's 6-4 victory against the Florida Panthers, a potential playoff preview.

Teammate Nicholas Robertson lauded Matthews:

“Unbelievable player, (future) Hall of Famer, I really hope he gets to 70. It would be something special to witness.”

Matthews' remarkable performance puts him on track for 69 goals, the most since Mario Lemieux in 1995-96. Despite missing several key players, including Mitch Marner, Toronto demonstrated resilience.

Coach Sheldon Keefe acknowledged their strong start of capitalizing on the Panthers' initial shortcomings.

“We were really good for two periods. They probably weren’t at their best and we capitalized on that, and then probably a little bit of a reverse in the third.”

Florida mounted a comeback, with Vladimir Tarasenko leading the charge, but they ultimately fell short of the win.