Winnipeg Sun
April 5, 2003
By KEN WIEBE -- Winnipeg Sun

ST. JOHN'S, Nfld. -- On most nights, Brad Leeb has made it look like this has been his easiest season as a pro -- but the truth is that hockey has served as his release.

Always known for his NHL-calibre shot, Leeb has posted career highs in games, goals and points for the St. John's Maple Leafs after being dealt by the Vancouver Canucks to Toronto last summer for prospect defenceman Tomas Mojzis.

Not only did he react positively to the first trade of his three-year career, but he did it after his mother Carol passed away following a lengthy battle with cancer.

"I think it was more of a release -- you're dealing with everything along with your family and hockey is the one time of day where you go and just don't have to think," said Leeb, who finished with 35 goals and 61 points in 79 games this season. "You just go out there and play, have fun. It really helped me a lot. Obviously, it was a tough year but I really had fun playing the game.

"I'm still dealing with everything, I don't think it goes away right away so I'm happy to have the game."

Although the Baby Leafs played their final AHL game last night, Leeb is going to have the game to help him for a little longer.

Mike Penny, the assistant GM and director of player personnel for the parent club, said yesterday that Leeb would be recalled to Toronto and will join the team for the Stanley Cup playoffs.

"He's played really well and we're going to stick with him, I think he's got a good chance," said Penny, who said the Maple Leafs plan to make Leeb a qualifying offer and hold on to his rights. "He's competitive, he's got a good shot and an ability to score some goals. He's quick and he's very rugged for his size."

Perhaps more important than even his impressive statistics is the fact Leeb was able to stay healthy and play an entire season.

"It was actually my first pro year that I haven't been hurt so it's been good to get all of that hockey in," said Leeb, who had serious knee injuries that cost him sizable portions of the past two seasons. "All teams and all players go through a little bit of a slump and I did too, but I just tried to keep it consistent all year.

"I wanted to have a strong finish and leave a good impression in (Toronto's) mind. You play this game for a reason and to be around for the NHL playoffs would be unreal, even if you're just practicing. I'd love to go up there."

Now he's got his wish -- and somewhere Carol is smiling.



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