The white noise is growing louder around a slumping Toronto Maple Leafs team.



What’s wrong with the Leafs lately?



I’m always curious to hear the thoughts of rival hockey people so I put that question to a few sources from opposing NHL teams on Monday.



Their response? Basically, no one out there thinks there’s much the Leafs should be worried about.



“There are no free nights,’’ said one Eastern Conference coach. “Teams know that the Leafs have lots of weapons and have to bear down defensively. Also, lots of teams that started really well this season are slowing down a bit this time of year.’’



Said a Western Conference team executive: “I think they’re fine. Just experiencing some bad luck and trying to come together as a team. They need to improve their D (however) if they want to be a true contender.’’



Outside of Tampa Bay, all of the other contenders...