Editor In Leaf
Fansided

Toronto Maple Leafs: An Early Look at Potential 2020 Free Agency Targets

ByMatthew Rodrigopulle|
TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 30: John Tavares #91 of the Toronto Maple Leafs is congratulated by teammate Zach Hyman #11 after scoring the over time winner against the Buffalo Sabres at the Scotiabank Arena on November 30, 2019 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Mark Blinch/NHLI via Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 30: John Tavares #91 of the Toronto Maple Leafs is congratulated by teammate Zach Hyman #11 after scoring the over time winner against the Buffalo Sabres at the Scotiabank Arena on November 30, 2019 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Mark Blinch/NHLI via Getty Images)
4 of 6
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 02: Malcolm Subban #30 of the Vegas Golden Knights defends the net against Chris Kreider #20 of the New York Rangers during the third period at Madison Square Garden on December 02, 2019 in New York City. The Golden Knights defeated the Rangers 4-1. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – DECEMBER 02: Malcolm Subban #30 of the Vegas Golden Knights defends the net against Chris Kreider #20 of the New York Rangers during the third period at Madison Square Garden on December 02, 2019 in New York City. The Golden Knights defeated the Rangers 4-1. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Chris Kreider, New York Rangers, LW

2019-20 stats: 26 GP, 6 G, 7 A

Here’s a player I know a lot of Toronto Maple Leafs fans wanted last year when trade rumours surrounded him.

Kreider is a streaky winger who can have a hot run before going dry for some time. This was shown last season where he had a strong first half of the season, scoring 20 goals and 11 assists in just 38 games, but went cold during the second half putting up just 21 more points.

Despite the inconsistency, he’s effective and chippy which can help the Leafs’ offensive stars thrive in the top six.

Most of all, the Leafs big issue for the last couple of season has been their lack of toughness and grit. Well, Kreider would be a big help in that category if that’s what the Leafs are looking for.

This season, Kreider’s production has regressed quite a bit, as he’s on pace for one of his worst seasons. This may risk his chances of a pay raise this summer, which the Toronto Maple Leafs could try and take advantage of.

Home/Editorials