Roni Hirvonen
Roni Hirvonen is in his second season with the Toronto Marlies. Last season, he registered seven goals and six assists for 13 points in 37 games. He is looking to stay healthy this season and record some better stats. Hirvonen has two goals and three assists for five points in five games, so he is well on his way to improving over last season.
The Leafs drafted Hirvonen in the second round of the 2020 NHL draft with the 59th overall pick. After being drafted, Hirvonen developed while playing in the Finnish elite league (Liiga).
Last season, he came over to North America to continue his development at the AHL level but suffered an eye injury early in the season. This season is about staying healthy and showing Leafs management a better look at what Hirvonen offers.
From what I've seen, I think Hirvonen has the skill set to become a 25-30 goal scorer for the Marlies this season. He is fun to watch, that's for sure.
There is a chance he could challenge for a roster spot with the Leafs next season if all goes well. However, another season in the AHL next year could also be good depending on where he is in other areas of his development.
A number of prospects doing well with the Marlies are from the Leafs 2020 NHL draft. Soon we could see Hirvonen and the others in the NHL, but for now, they need to continue their development.