4 Things We've Learned From Toronto Maple Leafs 2022-23 Season

4 Things We’ve Learned From Toronto Maple Leafs 2022-23 Season

TORONTO, CANADA - OCTOBER 13: Mitchell Marner #16 of the Toronto Maple Leafs congratulates teammate Ilya Samsonov #35 on victory against the Washington Capitals in an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on October 13, 2022 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Maple Leafs defeated the Capitals 3-2. (Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images) /

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RALEIGH, NC – MARCH 25: Michael Bunting #58 of the Toronto Maple Leafs a. Hurricanes defeat Leafs 5-3. (Photo by Jaylynn Nash/Getty Images) /

No. 2: Michael Bunting Isn’t a Fluke

When Bunting finished the 2021-22 season with 23 goals and 63 points, all while being nominated for the Calder Trophy, many looked at the year as a fluke.

When you’re playing alongside Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner every night, it’s easy to be a beneficiary to their greatness, but Bunting has backed it up.

Obviously playing alongside Matthews helps, it goes both ways.

With 21 goals and 46 points thus far, Bunting will fall short of his point-total from last year but has a chance to bypass his goals, which would be pretty impressive.

Not only can Bunting score, but he plays a style of hockey that will translate well in the playoffs. There aren’t too many players in the NHL who chirp more than Bunting and that edge will make him a pest to play against during the playoffs.

As we look forward to the playoffs, Bunting is a player who could be a difference-maker.

He needs to continue to play with an edge, but could come up with a big goal that sends this team into the Second Round of the playoffs.

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