Toronto Maple Leafs fans thrilled as latest NHL announcement makes them suddenly think the league isn't rigged

Whether you subscribe to the idea that on ice officials play a role in the outcome of a game, there has been evidence that the Toronto Maple Leafs appear to lose often when Wes McCauley referee's their games. Earlier this year Maple Leafs' fans were sure there was a conspiracy against them after McCauley and Co. officiated Game 1, which the Maple Leafs lost. Leafs fans quoted their record with McCauley officiating as proof of a conspiracy.

Today the NHL announced the officials for tonight's game. Tonight the Maple Leafs and Lightning game will be officiated by Kyle Rehman and Jean Herbert. Unlike McCauley the Leafs have a much better fate under Rehman and Herbert. During the past two seasons, the Maple Leafs have had Rehman or Hebert officiating a total of ten times, during that time they've amassed a record of 9-0-1. Conversely, the all-time record in the playoffs under McCauley is 0-8.




It's my belief that officials can and have dictated the outcome of a game, although it happens less than people gripe about. Whether it's Kerry Fraser missing a call on Gretzky or a bias that has developed when McCauley is officiating, the job of a player on a hockey team is to out and win, while letting the cards fall where they may.

However it's hilarious to see the change in reaction for Leafs fans, who once thought the league was out to get them, suddenly changing their tune. Either way the Maple Leafs will look to end a 19-year second round drought.