Look, I’ve been around long enough to know the drill. Today, September 22, the league is buzzing with ten preseason exhibitions across the map—from Philly to San Jose. These games don't count, which is probably for the best given how my blood pressure spikes just looking at a practice jersey. I’m still recovering from watching the results from Monday, September 21, where we saw clubs like Montreal edge out Ottawa 3-2 and Winnipeg take down Colorado 3-1. None of it really matters, does it? It’s just noise before the real heartbreak begins.
As a Leafs fan, this time of year is a special kind of purgatory. We’ve had all summer to dissect the draft picks, obsess over free agency, and pretend that this roster is finally the one to break the curse that’s haunted us since 1967. The Stanley Cup parade feels like a distant fever dream, and the award ceremonies are just reminders of trophies we aren't lifting. We talk about roster tweaks and defensive depth like they’re holy scripture, all while knowing deep down that cautious hope is the only thing keeping us warm. Wake me up when the games actually count. Or don't.