Happy 100th! Sizing Up the Leafs' Playoff Prospects with Damien Cox and Mark Osborne

We're celebrating our 100th episode! Joining us to discuss the Leafs and the upcoming NHL playoffs are journalist and author Damien Cox and former Leaf and current Pro Scout for the NHL's LA Kings, Mark Osborne.
Damien Cox, a media and broadcasting veteran, shares his thoughts on Auston Matthews' historic season, the Leafs' defense, Sheldon Keefe's coaching, and the potential impact Keith Pelley may have as the new CEO of MLSE. Then, in our conversation with Mark Osborne, we chat about what its like playing with record-breaking teammates, the role of a shutdown line, the pressure of playing in Toronto, and his experience as a pro scout with the LA Kings. He shares insights from his time as a player, his perspective on the media, and the importance of the best players performing in the playoffs.
We're so happy to be able to bring you the insights of these two savvy pros! With Damien Cox's extensive knowledge of the Leafs and the Canadian sports media landscape, and Mark Osborne's vast experience in hockey on and off the ice, it was truly a treat to get their perspectives on the Leafs' season and what the team may need to do to see success in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The countdown is now on, and this years playoff journey will begin in earnest on April 20th. As Damien said, it will either be heartbreak or euphoria! Like all of Leafs Nation, we're hoping for a lot more of the latter this time around. Go Leafs Go!
Takeaways
Auston Matthews is having a historic season and is the most prolific offensive player in the history of the Leafs franchise.
The Leafs' defense is a concern going into the playoffs, but the team's success will ultimately depend on their ability to score goals.
There is debate about whether Sheldon Keefe is the right coach for the Leafs, but the decision ultimately lies with MLSE.
The new CEO of MLSE, Keith Pelley, may have an impact on the business side of the organization, particularly in negotiations with the NHL for a new TV deal. Playing with record-breaking players is both routine and special, as it showcases the unique abilities and skills of these individuals.
The role of a shutdown line in today's NHL has evolved, with teams now expecting their third line to contribute offensively as well as defensively. Playing in Toronto comes with added pressure due to the media scrutiny and the high expectations of the fan base.
As a pro scout, Osborne's job involves evaluating players for trades and free agency, and his input is valued by the LA Kings' management team.
Osborne appreciates the growth of women's hockey and the increased coverage of the sport in the media.
Chapters
00:00 Auston Matthews' Historic Season
10:14 Concerns About the Leafs' Defense
30:14 Playing with Record-Breaking Players
37:10 Insights from a Pro Scout
56:45 Gratitude to the Listeners and Followers
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[@paralifetv-youreverydaywhe8314]

Really good chat with Mark. I was locked in. I was i high school during the 92-93 Leaf run. Watching that team was so exciting.. I go back every once in a while and watch a game on KZbin :)

[@LTL1917]

We were too 😂! Mark was a great guest and we’re so happy to have had him on. Glad you liked the interview.

[@TheBillaro]

those two runs were incredible fun. so many workermen-like players. we could believe in that team

[@TheBillaro]

First time listener. Loved the show thoroughly. You are calm and thoughtful in your approach. You let the guests speak and you know your stuff! ❤

[@LTL1917]

Wow, thank you and welcome aboard! Appreciate the feedback and happy that you enjoyed the interviews. Thanks for watching and we hope you’ll check us out again during the playoffs.

[@paralifetv-youreverydaywhe8314]

Hi there! Happy 100th. LOVE the Clark jersey. He's my all time favorite still to this day. New sub. Cheers!

[@LTL1917]

Thank you for listening and subscribing! Wendel is Chris’s all time favourite as well! Could really use a “Wendel” going into the Playoffs.

[@LTL1917]

Thank you and thank you for watching! Wendel is my fave Leaf player of all time - heart and soul player, which we need more of starting tonight! Go Leafs Go!

[@goodflop255]

Great show ladies. Congrats on number 100. Hearing Mark Osborne talk about those 1993 era teams was very enjoyable. Loved those teams and loved Mark, Berg and Peter Zezel. That was a great team top to bottom and they should have won the cup in 93 but for a gutless referee. All the best going forward show is very good.

[@LTL1917]

Thanks for listening and the feedback! Yes, Mark was a great guest and we could’ve talked with him about that ‘93 team for hours! Hoping our current team can channel even and little bit of that magic and make a deeper run. Go Leafs Go!