No. 3: Calle Jarnkrok
Jarnkrok is a relatively unknown player, but he’ll be a fan-favorite by the end of the 2022-23 season.
For the past decade, Jarnkrok has been a third-line player, who’s been consistent as anyone in that role. l Typically scoring around 15 goals per season, he’s a gritty player, who can contribute in the bottom-six, top-six and on the penalty kill.
Throughout his career, he hasn’t normally played on the second-line, but the opportunity may strike in Toronto, although that seems unlikely.
He’s continued to contribute offensively, despite never playing with world-class offensive superstars, so his numbers could rise if paired beside Tavares and Nylander. As a high-IQ winger, that hockey intelligence could do wonder’s for him as he looks to breakout this year.
I’d be a little surprised if Jarnkrok ends up on the second-line, but he’ll definitely be given a strong look at training camp, as the competition will be high to get more minutes this year.
The most likely role for Jarnkrok is on a defensively elite line with David Kampf and Pierre Engvall.