The New Guy: An excited Michael Grabner experiences life as a Maple Leaf for first time
HALIFAX— Michael Grabner got a quick taste of what it means to be a Maple Leaf when he caught up to his new teammates in time for the first practice of training camp on Friday.
Hundreds of fans greeted the team when it hit ice, chanting ‘Go Leafs Go’ for practice and applauding when practice ended.
“I know the Leafs have a big following, and it’s great to be part of it,” said Grabner.
“It’s a good change for me. I’m happy to be here and get started. Hopefully I’ll give them something to cheer for.”
Grabner was at home having completed his physical for the New York Islanders when he received word he was heading to Toronto for five prospects. He said he’d heard speculation over the summer the Isles were looking to move him.
But he’s happy the move came at the beginning of camp, giving him time to get to know his new mates.
“We’re all in the same boat — starting off the season, getting practices in, getting into game shape. It’s good to come here from the start.”
Grabner’s offensive numbers have trended downward since he scored 34 times in 2010-11. He followed that with campaigns of 20, 16, 12 and eight goals. But he’s a speedster and one of the league’s top penalty killers. In one game against the Leafs two seasons ago, Grabner scored twice on the same penalty kill.
“I remember that,” he said, laughing. “I got lucky on the second goal. I take a lot of pride in killing penalties. I have a lot of fun with it. With my speed I can take away a lot of time and space from players.”
He’ll be right in the mix for top-line minutes in Toronto, battling veterans such as P.A. Parenteau, Shawn Matthias and perhaps Brad Boyes for playing time.
“You want to prove yourself again,” said Grabner. “I had a couple of tough years with injuries. I just want to get back on track and get back to where I know I can play.” Kevin McGran