Brad Marchand on the Maple Leafs' slow start to the season: "With the media attention and the fan support in Toronto, things get blown way out of proportion up there... They were one goal away from beating us in the playoffs"

"Well, it is exciting. Any time you play a team in the playoffs, especially a couple of years close together, that is where rivalries are built. We're two teams that should both be doing a little bit better than we are. We are looking to build our game, and they are looking to do the same. It just seems like the intensity of these games rises a little bit."

"It is tough to come back when you are down 3-0. They compete very hard, and they are very deep. Their defensive structure is way better now than it was in the past. They are battling some injuries, which affect your overall game, your consistency, and how comfortable you are with your linemates. We are going through the same thing."

"I mean, what are we, 25 games in? If you think your playoff dreams are done 25 games in, you have bigger problems. I know they don't think that in the room. With the media attention and the fan support in Toronto, things get blown way out of proportion up there. They definitely don't think that in the room. What are they? Four points out of a playoff spot?"

Playing recent playoff opponents builds a rivalry that raises game intensity. Both teams should be performing better and are trying to rebuild their games while battling inconsistency. Every point is crucial and no games can be taken off; teams must play the right way for full games. The previous playoff series was effectively decided by a one-goal margin and a 3-0 deficit made a comeback difficult. Toronto competes hard, is deep, and has improved defensive structure. Injuries on both sides have disrupted consistency and linemate comfort. At 25 games into the season, playoff hopes remain viable and panic is premature.

Read at Maple Leafs Hotstove