US President Joe Biden takes aim at Maple Leafs during parliamentary speech

25 March 2023 , 14:22

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Joe Biden made an unexpected dig at the Toronto Maple Leafs on Friday (Image: NHLI via Getty Images)

Joe Biden fired shots at the Toronto Maple Leafs during a speech to Canadian parliament on Friday afternoon, as events took a comedic turn.

The United States President made the short trip to Canada on Friday, speaking to members of their parliament including PM Justin Trudeau. While it was a more serious visit, Biden decided to bring up sports, and one team in particular.

Biden is a known fan of the National Hockey League, with the Philadelphia Flyers being his team of choice. But rather than being hostile with Flyers' rivals Boston Bruins, Biden took aim at the Maple Leafs instead in front of Canadian attendance.

"Our labour unions cross borders. So do our sports leagues," Biden told those in attendance at the parliamentary meeting. "Baseball, basketball, hockey. …I have to say I like your teams except the Leafs."

Biden's comment received a mixed response, with some in attendance cheering the US President while others proceeded to boo him. However, Biden decided to clear up his reasoning for picking out the Leafs in particular.

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"I’ll tell you why," Biden added. "They beat the Flyers back in January, that’s why." The Flyers are not enjoying a prolific season, meaning that the Leafs are certainly not the only team to beat them this campaign.

But with the Leafs being one of the biggest sports teams in Canada, Biden knew that his comment would get a funny reaction - and it certainly delivered. The Flyers have only won 27 games all season, losing 32 in regular time and a further 12 defeats have come via overtime or a shootout.

Only three other NHL teams have won fewer games than the Flyers, and it's certainly a season to forget for the organisation. The Leafs on the other hand look set to clinch second in the Atlantic Division, with a likely playoff clash against the Tampa Bay Lightning beckoning.

First Lady Dr. Jill Biden is a huge supporter of Philadelphia sports teams, and it's likely that the President's Flyers connection comes from her. Biden backed the Philadelphia Eagles during the Super Bowl, but they were beaten by the Kansas City Chiefs back in February.

It's been so close yet so far for Philadelphia across the board, as the Philadelphia Phillies lost the MLB World Series against the Houston Astros last season. Philadelphia Union also lost the MLS Cup final to Los Angeles FC last year, meaning their hopes rest on the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA this season.

Joseph McBride