If the Maple Leafs identify a way to gain a perceived edge, they’re probably pursuing it. All indications suggest the players were comfortable with an evening flight to St. Louis on Boxing Day despite having the negotiated right to spend it at home instead. Some of them are even believed to have pushed for it in order to make Tuesday’s game day against the Blues as normal as possible and set themselves up for success. It’s about restoring a comfortable rhythm and regaining form as quickly as possible following a break that Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe noted is “disruptive” for all players. But in a season with so much riding on it — one where nothing can or should be left to chance — the Leafs can probably view the $100,000 dropped as money well spent.

Source: thestar January 01, 2023 11:00 UTC