Connolly, Kulemin moved around
--Coach Ron Wilson has seen just about enough from slumping C Tim Connolly and RW Nikolai Kulemin. To start the Western Canadian road trip, five-goal man Kulemin was bounced to the third line, away from the constant companionship of C Mikhail Grabovski and LW Clarke MacArthur. Connolly, who had just three assists in 16 games as first- and third-line center, has replaced Kulemin in an unfamiliar spot -- right wing. Kulemin played better on Tuesday, Connolly missed great chances and the Leafs lost 5-1.
"I have played the wing in the past," Connolly said, referring to his time with the Buffalo Sabres. "The last few games have been frustrating, just because we have been losing hockey games."
--C Tyler Bozak popped his fifth goal in six games on Tuesday, continuing to show higher-scoring linemates Phil Kessel and Joffrey Lupul he has some jam.
--Toronto dropped its fourth straight game for the first time since the autumn of 2010. In the slump, Toronto has been outscored 16-5. "We have to find a way to win battles in front of our net," coach Ron Wilson said.
QUOTE TO NOTE
"Our guys understand it is a meritocracy. Whoever is playing best is going to be in the lineup." -- Coach Ron Wilson on shaking up lines.
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