Maple Leafs’ playoff record under referee Wes McCauley only adds to officiating scandal

The Toronto Maple Leafs are behind 0-1 in their first round series against the Tampa Bay Lightning after Tuesday’s humiliating 7-3 loss. While some blamed the performance of goalie Ilya Samsonov or the lack of discipline and energy across the Maple Leafs’ lineup, others, including captain John Tavares, have pointed at the officiating.

It’s no surprise seeing all the drama surrounding head coach Sheldon Keefe and referee Wes McCauley.

Most of us remember the David Frost and Mike Danton scandal, right? David Frost was a former junior coach turned NHL player agent who was accused of sexually assaulting a number of underage hockey players, including Danton. Frost was acquitted of the charges and Danton was subsequently arrested and convicted for conspiring to murder Frost.
Here is where McCauley comes in: he and Frost are brothers-in law and are reportedly very close. On the other side, Danton and Keefe are lifelong friends. The two grew up playing hockey together and were teammates on a junior team coached by Frost when the alleged abuse took place. Fast forward to Danton’s trial and it was Keefe who was on the stand testifying against Frost.

Scouting the Refs dug a little more and offered on Wednesday the Leafs’ playoff record under McCauley.

It does not look good:

This will only add fuel to the emerging scandal happening in Toronto with fans calling for justice in this conflict of interest.

But will they start blaming Wes McCauley too for the Maple Leafs’ lack of success in the postseason since 2004?! Come on, the Maple Leafs will need to focus on what they can control, stay disciplined and get the win in Game 2 before heading to Tampa. 

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