Comparing Auston and Wendel

TORONTO (Mar. 30) — So, which accomplishment is more impressive: Wendel Clark’s 34 goals in 1985–86 that stood, for more than three decades, as the rookie–season record for the Toronto Maple Leafs? Or, the 35 goals (and counting) by Auston… Read More

Toronto, Detroit and Culture Shock

TORONTO (Jan. 26) — Of all the disparity provided by the Toronto Maple Leafs this season, nothing is quite–so foreign as the club being decidedly better than the Detroit Red Wings. Eons have passed since the Leafs could make such… Read More

Marner No Surprise Here

TORONTO (Nov. 18) — If the Calder Trophy were awarded today, there’s little doubt that Patrik Laine of the Winnipeg Jets would be the winner with a league–best 12 goals in 19 games. But, Mitch Marner of the Maple Leafs… Read More

Leafs–Marlies Bond A Throwback

TORONTO (May 16) — Back in time, it was major–junior hockey. Today, it is minor–professional. Only the name has been constant — the Toronto Marlies. Young fans near and far may not realize the American Hockey League’s best team this… Read More

Three More For The “Row”

TORONTO (Jan. 23) — It is called Legends Row — the medley of bronze statues on the west plaza of Air Canada Centre commemorating, subjectively, the greatest of all Toronto Maple Leafs. In the not–too–distant future, it might have to… Read More

45 Years Since Pat Quinn/Bobby Orr

By HOWARD BERGER TORONTO (Apr. 2) – Now that Maple Leafs have actually won a game, you’ll excuse me for recalling an occasion when they lost, 10-0. In the playoffs, no less. Against Bobby Orr and the Big, Bad Bruins,… Read More

The Essence of Maple Leaf Gardens

By HOWARD BERGER TORONTO (Oct. 12) – The novelty will prevail for as long as they live. It is forever a thrill and privilege to be in the company of my boyhood heroes – doubly so when the backdrop is … Read More