Ben Danford and the head coach are facing a sudden setback as the Leafs prospect gets a two-game suspension right in the middle of the series.
The Brantford Bulldogs are losing one of their toughest defensemen just as the series is getting more intense. Danford will not play in Games 3 and 4.
The problem started in Game 2 against Sudbury when Danford received a five-minute major penalty and was thrown out of the game for a hit from behind.
This decision is important. Brantford is leading the series 2-0, but now their defense has just become weaker at a critical time.
Danford has been relied on to shut down the other team’s offense all season. His absence will be felt mostly on the penalty kill, where he has been one of the team’s most reliable players.
He also brings intensity. His presence on the ice makes opposing forwards get rid of the puck faster than they want.
Brantford ended the regular season with 106 points, securing the top seed with a solid and organized defense. Now there is a noticeable gap.
Danford scored 16 points in 37 games after being traded, but his worth goes beyond just numbers. He plays tough minutes.
With him missing, there will be changes in the second defense pair and younger players who haven’t faced this kind of playoff pressure before will have to take on more responsibility.
This is where things could get exciting. A 2-0 series lead can change quickly if the momentum shifts during back-to-back games.
Toronto’s development team will be paying close attention. Danford is seen as a key player for the future, especially because of his defensive skills.
He has already earned a reputation as someone who blocks shots and kills penalties, and this label doesn’t change because of one suspension.
However, discipline will be a topic of discussion. Playoff hockey is very intense, and one poorly timed hit can change the outcome of a series or a player’s growth.
Brantford is still seen as the top choice, but now they have to prove how strong their team really is. This challenge is arriving sooner than they thought it would.
Leave a Reply