Toronto Maple Leafs Season Preview: Locks and Long Shots

 Mitch Marner

It is hard to believe that Marner has yet to reach 100 points scored in a single season. The active Leafs points leader came agonizingly close last year, scoring 99 points in 80 games played.

An organizational decision to sit him out for a game during the home stretch of the regular season likely prevented him from hitting the milestone.

He has bypassed the 90-point mark three times during his career. The Leafs offensive strengths and depth up front make it a foregone conclusion that Marner finally lands on the century mark.

The expected third member of the Toronto Maple Leafs first line, Bertuzzi should blossom next to the team’s two superstars. He has never played with such talent around him.

He has size and has scored 30 goals before during his career on a less talented Detroit Red Wings squad. As long as the proper chemistry develops, Bertuzzi should score 30 once again.

The next safest sure thing for the Leafs upcoming season is Matthew Knies. From his debut moment last season, he has looked the part of an NHL player.

It looks like the Leafs got a steal when they drafted him in the second round based on his skating, playmaking, and maturity beyond his years.

While there will likely be dips in his play throughout the year as he adjusts to the rigors of a full NHL schedule, it is not hard to imagine him being a significant contributor.

A twenty-goal, fifty-point season won’t be a problem. He should also garner consideration for the Calder Trophy as top rookie.