Visited “Punch” on this rainy day for inspiration

I visited Punch Imlach’s grave this afternoon during a walk through Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, and I couldn’t help wondering what he’d say—and do—after this awful start to the Maple Leafs season.

Imlach was a complicated figure: a harsh taskmaster who could be verbally abusive and abrasive, yet also capable of well-timed praise and genuine positive reinforcement. That blend of intimidation and encouragement made him both controversial and remarkably successful, guiding the Leafs to four Stanley Cups.

Standing there, I found myself thinking: hmmm maybe Punch is sending the Leaf Nation a message from above.