Maple Leafs actually happy to be called dirty

Ever since the Toronto Maple Leafs snapped their losing streak, they have looked hungry not just for wins, but for blood too! 

Last week, Wayne Simmonds actually got upset when the Winnipeg Jets’ crew hinting at the fact that the Maple Leafs played dirty. 

“Every time we’ve played them, they’ve tried to run us out of the building to start games. We come back & we’re physical and now we’re a dirty team? I don’t buy that. We’re defending ourselves.”

This came after a game in which veteran forward Joe Thornton was fined for interference on Jets’ forward Mathieu Perreault. His questionable hit kinda make it clear the Jets had a point in their comments, but it seems like the fine or comments from rival teams won’t make the Maple Leafs change their ways. 

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman actually believe Toronto loves its new reputation: 

“Don’t think the Maple Leafs minded being called “ dirty .” Probably preferred it to “soft.””

The Maple Leafs were often criticized for lacking grit and intensity on the ice, and now that Thornton has lit it up, it looks like he is set for the postseason and looking to keep his dirty look going. 

About time, would you say, Leafs fans?