The Top 5 Positive Surprises This Season for the Toronto Maple Leafs

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Number 2: Martin Jones

Martin Jones has become one of the biggest positive surprises for the Leafs this season.

When the Leafs signed Jones to a one-year deal for $875,000, it was solely a depth signing. I don't think Treliving or anyone else thought Jones would be playing such a crucial role for the Leafs this season.

The Leafs got lucky at the start of the season when Jones made it through waivers without being claimed.

Due to Ilya Samsonov's poor play and Joseph Woll getting hurt, Jones is now the number-one goaltender for the Leafs. His numbers with the Toronto Marlies earlier this season were not great, but he's been doing a fine job with the Leafs.

With the Marlies, Jones posted a record of 2-1-1 in five appearances. His stats of 3.37 GAA and .870 SV% have improved at the NHL level. He has a 7-3-0 record with two shutouts and a 2.08 GAA and 9.32 SV% through 11 appearances with the Leafs.

Once Woll returns from injured reserve, I think Jones has earned the right to be the Leafs backup goaltender for the remainder of the season. I wouldn't be surprised if the Leafs ended up trying to trade Samsonov at the NHL trade deadline.

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