Leafs fans are upset about this Brad Marchand play with Timothy Liljegren

Leafs fans are upset about this Brad Marchand play with Timothy Liljegren originally appeared on
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Once again, Toronto Maple Leafs fans find themselves fuming over Boston Bruins’ captain, Brad Marchand.

In Thursday night’s game at TD Garden, Marchand collided with Leafs defenseman Timothy Liljegren during the first period. The Bruins eventually won the match 3-2 in a shootout, but fans can’t seem to get over the incident.

The collision occurred as both players were skating towards the corner. Liljegren initiated contact with Marchand, only to end up losing the battle, losing his balance, and crashing hard into the boards. While some fans have criticized Marchand’s stick getting under Liljegren, it is important to note that the defenseman had already lost his balance prior to the stick being involved. The play was unfortunate, but not a dirty move by Marchand.

Liljegren had to be immediately escorted off the ice. He required assistance as he made his way towards the locker room.

The incident, which referee Wes McCauley witnessed from close range, did not result in a penalty. Some argue that a tripping minor could have been called, but it falls far short of deserving a suspension.

When asked about the play, Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe told reporters, “He just didn’t see the stick go in between his legs and can-opener him to make him go feet-first into the boards in the most dangerous area on the ice. He didn’t see it.”

Keefe also mentioned that Liljegren is expected to miss a significant amount of time due to the injury.

The lack of response from the Leafs to this play is concerning. They failed to stand up to Marchand in any manner.

It is unclear if the Leafs’ players will address the Liljegren incident the next time they face the Bruins on Saturday, Dec. 2 in Toronto. However, one thing is certain – the fans will have plenty to say about Marchand.