3 Breakout Candidates for 2021-22 NHL Season

The 2021-22 NHL season is around the corner and like every year there's going to be a few players who jump onto the scene out of no where and surprise the league. Let's dive into a few players who could be this season's breakout star.

Shane Pinto, Ottawa Senators

Pinto is shining like a bright star so far in training camp for the Senators. With a young squad, Pinto could be given a huge opportunity this season to play significant minutes. The former second-round pick from 2019 played in 12 games last season in Ottawa and recorded seven points. Pinto's going to be a star, it's just a matter of time.

Two point night for Shane Pinto. He isn't going anywhere #Sens
— Bruce Garrioch (@SunGarrioch) October 2, 2021

THE PINTO BEAN!

Shane Pinto pretty much makes it a one-man show in OT here and snipes it for the OT winner.

3-2 Final. #Sens #GoSensGo pic.twitter.com/WiSXqES3sS
— Pesky Sickos (@PeskySickos) September 27, 2021

Robert Thomas, St Louis Blues

Thomas is entering his fourth season in St Louis and will see his ice-time increase in 2021-22. Last season it was a bit of a struggle for the 22-year-old to stay healthy and he only managed 12 points in 33 games. Thomas is a complete player who is the future in St Louis and with the likes of Jaden Schwartz among others out in St Louis, look for Thomas to take a giant leap forward.

Kirby Dach, Chicago Blackhawks

Dach had his season derailed by a wrist injury at the World Juniors last season and look for the Blackhawks center to go off this season. With Jonathan Toews back and some other new faces in Chicago, the team is filled with talent and Dach is right in the middle of it all. The 20-year-old managed 10 points in 18 games last season and could be in line to top 50 points in 2021-22. If you get a chance, take Dach in your fantasy draft, you won't be disappointed.