The Toronto Maple Leafs signed seven players at once last week.
It truly was crazy stuff. Who will make an impact? Which ones will even make the team? The answers have yet to be determined.
In the most recent edition of What Do You Think?, I asked you, our loyal readers, to give us your take on the matter. And as always, you did not disappoint.
Here are some of the most notable responses.
WatchinTheLeafs
Not going to pretend I can predict which players will have an impact, if any, but I’m confident in saying I like the way Kyle Dubas is knocking off items on his to-do list full steam ahead. And that he continues to impress. I credit Shanahan for jumping at the opportunity to bring him aboard; a rink rat, student of the game, spending all his time at the Soo rink since when, 14 years old ?! He’s a special find, and with all the things to feel good about from a team standpoint, great to know we got a real good one running the show. That’s all.
Awesome Matthews
Shore and Agostino are who I think make the team, centred by Spezza. I definitely think their physical game is what is needed on the fourth line. Those two guys generate a lot of hits. Shore, from what I have read makes everyone on his line better so that will be good for Spezza as well.
Other than that I think if Agostino gets beat out it will be by Aberg. He seems like an intriguing player to me. More along the offensive lines Dubas is trying to create with this cast of players from top to bottom.
If any team can make Aberg consistent I think Mastercard centre is the best place for him to be.
It seems to me many of the Marlies roster may just find themselves waiting another year with all these players recently acquired.
I can’t wait for camp!
Brett Viddal
I think a lot of people that comment on here knows that having a solid #2 goaltender is one of the most important holes that need to be filled. Some rookie GM some people call a “genius” left that big hole and is still scrambling to fill it. Hutch has had 3 years learning the role of the back-up. His first 3 games in the NHL were pretty spectacular. But he was the starter in the AHL before that call up he posted a .947 over 3 games in. Coming off the bench is a different mindset. I can’t help but think Babcock will have enough confidence in Hutch to FINALLY give Freddie enough rest to be ready for the 2nd Season. After that, it’s pretty much all up to him.
Paul Elliott
The seven you mentioned are all bubble guys,on the fringe but not good enough to stick at the NHL level.I expect Aberg has the best chance to start the season.I find it amusing that no one mentions giving any of the Marlies a look.Worked out well with Moore………and Hey! whatever happened to Nic Petan,another bubble player who might need to go to the KHL for his next contract……….no one ever mentions him
afp1961
Easy. Shore Agostino and Aberg from this group make the team. You didn’t mention Spezza so I assume you believe he is already on the team which is correct.
Spezza Agostino and shore make up the fourth line. Aberg will bounce around while replacing Hyman. Then a decision will have to be made once Zach returns.
Depth this year is much different on the third and fourth lines. Will make Babs happier to see a 4th line that can bring hitting speed forechecking and scoring.
All Marlies (Moore Marchment Engvall) will be in a dogfight to make the club. Predict zero make it.
The other signing not mentioned is Mekheyev. He is the most interesting of the eight players I am eager to see.
Brian Seabourn
Does the Goat have even a remote chance of making this team?
Thanks for reading! Your responses, as always, are wonderful. Look for the next What Do You Think next week!