When humanity is threatened only the super powered might of the Toronto Maple Leafs can be counted on to save the day. The Leafs have undergone a major overhaul this year. Of all the changes, none has been more impactful than the addition of a squadron based tactical deployment that head coach Mike Babcock and GM Kyle Dubas designed to keep the peace on the mean Toronto streets. Today we aren’t following any of the squads.

John Tortorella smiles from ear to ear and makes his move. The checker clicks then clacks then clicks one more time.

“King me again.” John says triumphantly.

Mike Babcock can only shake his head. “I think we can just call it there.” He reaches out to shake John’s hand. “I conceded the match.”

“Ha! Ha!” John jumps out of his chair to do a victory dance which lasts long enough to feel rehearsed. “I beat you! I beat you! Oh that feels good. Yeah, take your beating Mike. Take it.”

Mike packs up his checker board and leaves while John dances and hurls insults with increasing imagination and vulgarity.

Strolling through the streets of Ohio, Mike meditates on the loss. He seeks answers in the sights and sounds of the city but he finds only himself. Sometimes you can try your best and still fall short. Winning is a gift that can never be taken for granted. Losing is a load that must be borne. Thankfully Mike will have little time to dwell. A new day will come with the rising sun and with it a new challenge and a new opponent.