Two Maple Leafs Prospects Making The Team Next Season
Having a strong prospect pool is such an important thing, as it helps determine the future success of all NHL franchises. Although it is always nice to be competitive now, things changes rapidly and it truly is a young man's league. Therefore, it feels right to start a 32-team segment covering them. During it, we will be looking at two prospects from every NHL franchise who could become NHL regulars next season.
In this installment, we will be looking at the Toronto Maple Leafs. For a team that has a strong core, it is also promising that their prospect pool is pretty deep, too. Rasmus Sandin is their top one, but due to the fact that he has already played 30 games and is a lock to make the team, let's focus on two other players. They certainly also have a real shot of making it to the NHL next season.
Nick Robertson LW: When Nick Robertson was just 18-years-old, he had the chance to play for the Maple Leafs during the 2020 NHL postseason. He scored a goal in four games and made fans quite optimistic. Yet, as a 19-year-old this season, he only suited up in six regular season games and had an assist. There's a good chance that he will get some meaningful playing time in the NHL this upcoming year, especially if he has a good training camp. He has top-six potential and has been an offensive threat in every other league he has played in.
Timothy Liljegren D: The Maple Leafs drafted Timothy Liljegren in the first-round of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. He has yet to stay play the NHL club with any true regularity, but one has to assume he will have the opportunity to this year. In 21 games last season with the Marlies, he scored two goals and recorded 11 points. He also had 30 points in 40 AHL games the year before. He could potentially fight his way on to the third-pair. At a minimum, though, he should be their first call-up whenever injuries occur. It's time to give this kid more of a shot moving forward.
Credit: NHLTradeRumours
