JAKE VORACEK is trying. Really, really trying. He's trying so hard out there that he's picking up penalties, running himself out of position, forcing out passes that create opportunities for the other team.
What's the polar opposite of a Gordie Howe hat trick? That's what Voracek had going in Thursday night's debilitating, 4-3 overtime loss to the NHL's worst team, the Toronto Maple Leafs.
He was part of blown coverage on the Leafs' first goal, leaving William Nylander alone with half a net to shoot at. Later, a flutter shot into traffic sprung Colin Greening for a breakaway and a 2-0, first-period lead.