3 Takeaways After the Toronto Maple Leafs First 3 Games
No. 3: Michael Bunting Should Play on 1st Line
In three games played, Nick Ritchie has three shots on net. Paired beside Mitch Marner and John Tavares all night, that’s not good enough.
When the Toronto Maple Leafs signed Ritchie, I thought he’d be a perfect replacement for Zach Hyman. I know it’s still early, but it’s not looking that way right now. Instead, Michael Bunting looks like the player who could be the next Hyman.
In three games, Bunting has nine shots on net, one goal and one assist. Not only has he been providing steady offense, but he’s been physical. He’s not afraid to lay a hit or get into the dirty areas to score. That style of play would fit perfectly on the team’s top line.
When Matthews returns, the Leafs should go with the following:
- Michael Bunting – Auston Matthews – Mitch Marner
- Alex Kerfoot – John Tavares – William Nylander
- Pierre Engvall – David Kampf – Ondrej Kase
- Nick Ritchie – Jason Spezza – Wayne Simmonds
Sending Ritchie to the fourth line is a tough move to make, especially when he’s making $2.5M, but it feels like the right fit.
dark. Next. Mrazek Injury Opens Door for Campbell
Bunting deserves an opportunity to play more minutes and to play with high-skilled players, so the team should give him that shot and see what happens. If he can’t capitalize on it, then bring Ritchie back up.
However, for the meantime, Bunting is deserving of the first line left-wing job.