Ryan Getzlaf puts Toronto media on blast, claims players actively avoid the Maple Leafs
Photo credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Former Anaheim Ducks legend Ryan Getzlaf recently delivered some controversial statements on the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto media.
Ryan Getzlaf is a legend who won a Stanley Cup with the Anaheim Ducks and is surely considered to be the franchise's most loyal soldier.
Now that he is retired, he can sit back and say the things he probably wasn't allowed to say when he was playing. It's a nice position to be in, although it oftentimes comes with controversy.
For instance, Getzlaf found himself on the wrong end of criticism this week when he was asked about the Toronto Maple Leafs, and why players refuse to come to the city.
Ryan Getzlaf is not fond of the Toronto media
In his mind, the Toronto media is to blame. He believes that players don't want to deal with all of the baggage that comes from playing in a market like Toronto.
Of course, Getzlaf played in California, a state that isn't exactly known for hockey. Simply put, the media didn't really care that much about the wins and losses.
The Toronto media narrative has been a popular one amongst detractors. There are lots of players who have been quick to criticize the media for running guys like Mitch Marner out of town.
However, when this clip hit social media, there were many who were quick to criticize Getzlaf, noting that he is completely in the wrong about all of this.
Per Ken Campbell:
A tired, old narrative that lets underachieving players, coaches and execs off the hook. The Leafs face no more (and in many cases less) pressure than the Yankees, Lakers, Manchester United and other teams that seem to attract free agents and manage to win once in a while.
Needless to say, Getzlaf has angered some fans with these comments, and it is very easy to see why. Whether or not he makes an effort to clarify these comments, remains to be seen.
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