The Toronto Maple Leafs are officially cooked.

With 23 games to go, they’re eight points out of a playoff spot.

If it wasn’t clear enough prior to their return from the Olympic break, it is now: It’s time to SELL. With that in mind, that’s where the conversation started on the Friday edition of Leafs Morning Take as NHL Insider David Pagnotta filled in for Jay Rosehill. Initially, we gave our quick thoughts on that monstrosity of a performance in Sunrise. After that, Pagnotta dished on what he expects Brad Treliving and company to do ahead of next Friday’s trade deadline. Spoiler: They’re going to be busy.

To be frank about it, we didn’t really discuss the Panthers game. No need to. Instead, we spent a lot of the show talking about what this team is, where they go from here, and who’s going to be in the mix moving forward. Pagnotta predicts Craig Berube’s days behind the bench are numbered (offseason more likely). Additionally, he hit on Morgan Rielly, free agency, and if Toronto’s still an attractive destination for around the league. We also touched on Easton Cowan and what exactly the plan is for the rookie forward. Suffice it is to say, he should see a lot of playing time down the stretch.

Then, Ottawa Senators head coach Travis dropped by. We talked deadline time and what it’s like as a player and a coach. Much similar to Toronto, the Sens are in a fight of their own because of how poorly their first half went. With 24 games left, they’re seven points out. Yeah, just like Toronto, they’re probably missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs, too. At any rate, Green also hit on blocking out the outside noise and what it’s like to play in Toronto/Canada. Of course, Ottawa’s in town for Round 2 of 4 of the Battle of Ontario, so we previewed that as well. Lastly, Green reflected on his era, specifically Joe Bowen and Pat Quinn’s Maple Leafs.

Jay Rosehill will be back in the mix for the Monday edition of Leafs Morning Take, which promises to be a juggernaut of an episode. In addition to recapping Leafs/Sens, Brian Burke is expected to join us to tee up trade deadline week for the Maple Leafs.

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