Toronto Maple Leafs v Boston Bruins — William Nylander #88 of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Morgan Rielly #44 react after the Maple Leafs lost 4-3 to the Boston Bruins during the third period at TD Garden on January 14, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts.

"They look lost defensively": Craig Button slams Toronto Maple Leafs defense after 6-4 loss to Vancouver Canucks

Modified Jan 21, 2024 07:26 GMT

TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button spared no words in criticizing the Toronto Maple Leafs' defensive performance following their 6-4 loss to the Vancouver Canucks on Saturday night. In a blistering post-game analysis, Button expressed his frustration with the team's consistent defensive lapses.

Button began by stressing the importance of a proactive defensive approach. In a conversation with Jay Onrait on JayonSC, he said:

"The Toronto Maple Leafs need to fight in the beginning of the game, when the puck drops to open the game. They need to fight defensively, not just offensively when they're down by three goals or they're on the power play."

He went on to dissect specific plays, calling out the lack of attention to detail and confusion within the Maple Leafs' defensive structure. Button pointed out instances where defensive breakdowns allowed the Canucks to build an early 3-0 lead.

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Describing one of the goals, Button remarked:

"They just lose all track of everybody. I mean, where do we go? They look confused. They look lost defensively."

He also criticized individual performances, including TJ Brody's decision to step up without proper awareness, leaving the front of the net wide open.

Continuing his critique, Button highlighted another defensive lapse, saying:

"And then Brody, oh, I won't look around. We'll just leave the whole front of the net wide open again. Just like that, it's 3-0."

Toronto Maple Leafs Reflect on Missed Opportunities and Defensive Lapses

After Toronto Maple Leafs faced a disappointing loss to the Vancouver Canucks, it prompted varied reactions from players and coach Sheldon Keefe. Despite outshooting their opponents 46-21, the Leafs couldn't overcome the early 3-0 deficit.

According to Kevin Woodley from NHL.com, Coach Keefe acknowledged the team's positive elements, stating:

"We did a lot of good things, ended up outshooting them pretty significantly in the game."

However, he expressed concern about giving the Canucks a three-goal lead.

William Nylander, who scored twice in the game, admitted the error he committed that fuelled Vancouver's progress, admitting:

"I made a mistake on their first goal, obviously, and it kind of started an avalanche there."

Mitch Marner, scored a goal and helped with another, shared his disappointment about the other team's quick scoring after his stellar move. He stressed that the team should work on strategies for special situations.