3 Toronto Maple Leafs Players Looking to Bounce Back in 2024-25

#2: Calle Jarnkrok

Jarnkrok netted 20 goals in 2022-23 playing predominantly in a bottom-six role.

That sort of depth scoring is what the Toronto Maple Leafs need from their depth guys.

However, last season was a frustrating one for Jarnkrok. He missed significant time with various injuries, seeing his goal total half to just ten. While he is still very much a defensively responsible player, he’s 32.

Players who are 32 rarely get better after a season of decline.

However, on the positive side, he’s also entering a contract year, which should provide him with plenty of motivation.

While there has been plenty of speculation about trading Jarnkrok, I don’t think the Leafs will sell low on him. Instead, my contention is the Leafs will bank on Jarnkrok working his tail off to prove he deserves another NHL contract, be it with Toronto or someone else.

That said, unless the Leafs move one of Nylander or Marner to centre, they have a lot of wingers who are going to be in competition for ice time with Jarnkrok - Nylander, Marner, Knies, Domi, Robertson, McMann, not to mention Easton Cowan is at least going to challange for a job.

All told, that's eight wingers who are not likely to ever play on a fourth line, meaning the Leafs roster isn't set and anything can happen. As I said though, I think Jarkrok's defense and ability to score goals gives him a leg up on the competition.

At this point, Jarnkrok seems like a good bet for the third line. But if he can stay healthy, there’s a chance he may get a look on the second line, depending on how Berube wants to structure his lineup. There’s plenty on the line for Jarnkrok this season.

So, don’t be surprised if he drops 20 goals or perhaps more this upcoming season.