23 Options for the Toronto Maple Leafs at the 2024 Draft - Lucas Pettersson
By Austin Kelly
Toronto Maple Leafs Likeliness
The Toronto Maple Leafs have reportedly already met with Pettersson, so there is clearly a bit of interest in him as a player, although meeting with a player does not mean they are their pick, but the Leafs are doing their due diligence on Pettersson.
Andrew Basha and Lucas Pettersson both spoke with the #LeafsForever #NHLCombine #2024NHLDraft
— Peter B (@PBaracchini) June 8, 2024
In my view, Pettersson plays to an area the Toronto Maple Leafs have valued, and that's versatility in a lineup.
Although he's a natural center, he has the quickness and creativity to play along the wing, and may do with his size, although he has a good chance of staying at center mainly if he bulks up.
The Leafs recent drafting has shown favorability to the ability to create and generate offense, which are strengths in Pettersson's game. Add a good transition game and defensive effort, and he could be their next Calle Jarnkrok.
I don't know if Pettersson gets taken before 23, he's not rated much above that area, but the Leafs seem like one of the teams who would have the most appreciation for his exciting, well-rounded style of play.