Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe already calling out team for poor effort

PUBLICATION

Liam
October 3, 2023 (7:33 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

After blowing a two goal lead in the third period and falling short in overtime against the Montreal Canadiens in a preseason game, Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe is already calling his team out for their efforts.

With it only being preseason, Keefe being this displeased by this game shows the high expectations the team has from every player in a season where they're trying to win a championship.

Keefe had a second postgame comment which allowed more insight into his thoughts and approach on this new-look Leafs team. When asked about Max Domi's abundance of penalties this preseason, including last night, Keefe actually gave him a commendation.

I really like the effort on that one coming back. Moving his feet. He's all over it. That's the kind of stuff you can clean up. I'd rather tone the guy down than have to kick him in the ass to get him going.

Maybe referring to how he's felt about other Leafs players now or in the past, Keefe praised Domi for his tenacity in favour of being a lifeless perimeter player - even if more penalties are called against him.

For Sheldon Keefe and the Leafs, including plenty of new talent joining the team, this is a consequential season. Under new management of Brad Treliving, the attitude has shifted towards aggressively pursuing postseason success. Players are vying for their spots in the process moving forward, hoping to be a part of the group that finally has some playoff success in Toronto.

MUST READ