So I'm an NCAA hockey coach.....
And yeah, I'll likely be watching every NHL Playoff game so don't hesitate to reach out w/ questions
I know the Jackets FO personnel really well-- better than all other NHL teams combined, actually. They have a real Cleveland Indians type of vibe in their front office. Very good at finding value in the draft and in free agency. Also very good at player development. I don't think there's another team in the NHL that would've made the playoffs after losing Duchene, Panarin and Bobrovsky in the same off season.
Honestly, the Leafs are a great matchup for the Jackets. It's just gonna be a matter of whether or the not the Jackets will be ready to play that hard-nosed game right off the bat and sustain it. Have to lean on the Leafs and play a heavy game. Play has been sloppy so far and the ice is shitty so that also helps the Jackets. But at the end of the day, the team with the hotter goalie typically wins in the playoffs.
Jackets in 5