It would have been so easy for Jake Gardiner to sulk.
But in this, his rookie season in the NHL, the swift-skating defenceman has shown the type of mental toughness that has the Maple Leaf brass collectively smiling from ear to ear.
When Gardiner was scratched for four consecutive games last month, it would have been easy for the University of Wisconsin alumnus to get down on himself. Instead, he has rebounded in a big way since getting back into the lineup.
Since returning to the ice, Gardiner has produced seven points in nine games. More impressive is the fact that he has five in his past five, including the first two NHL goals of his promising career.
“It’s nice that they are finally going in,” said Gardiner, whose second of the season helped the Leafs beat the Edmonton Oilers 6-3 on Monday.
Almost five months ago, during a Leafs preseason game in Detroit, an Eastern Conference scout raved at the potential of Gardiner, pointing out that he had the poise and savvy of a player far beyond his years.
It seems those skills are coming to the forefront in a big way right now.
Why would he get down? At best, he expected a year with the Marlies. Just getting this far into the season with the big club is utopia for any 21 year old. Any negative comments or reactions would have been plain dumb.
Without a doubt this kid is an untouchable. The future foundation of a strong offensive defense. The youth and speed that Burke has put together are here for the long term. You’ve got the right players not get the right mix in the lines Ron and you should be good to go! Nice to have Kuli, Mac & Grabo firing, Army will be good when he is up to speed. If you can …Komisarik is trade-able. Don;t give up on Kadri, Coleman and Ziggy are all good call-ups up front…Aulie too. Liles, Franson, Phaneuf, Gunnarson, Schenn, and Gardiner…wow just think about those 6 in 2 or 3 years, Jonas and Reims…whew …looking awesome!
Not to mention a +11 since being recalled