There were promises, assertions and stances abound believed to be unwavering.
After the heartbreaking and indefensible circumstances that saw the Toronto Maple Leafs lose in seven games to the rival and heavily-outmatched Montreal Canadiens in the opening round last season when it seemed the path to the third or fourth round was paved in gold, collections of fans — many who spent decades living and dying — swore off this team. They promised themselves, and any family member who would listen, that they weren't going to be fooled again.
How many of those are tucking their tails between their legs and inching their way back in front of television sets around the Greater Toronto Area and beyond?