2 Toronto Maple Leafs Poised for Breakout Seasons in 2022-23
The Toronto Maple Leafs are looking to parlay some regular season success into some Stanley Cup Playoff success this season. The team continues to be dominant during the 82-game schedule but haven't been able to get passed the first-round in almost two decades. The Leafs will need some steady goaltending and their defense to be solid if they want to make some noise this season when it matters most. Here's a couple of Maple Leafs who appear set to have huge campaigns in 2022-23:
William Nylander
One of the more polarizing players in the Toronto market, William Nylander has looked in mid-season form throughout the preseason. He's an all-world talent who can play either at center and the wing, giving Toronto a ton of versatility for their lineup. With John Tavares likely sidelined to start the season, there's a very good chance Nylander starts the season down the middle, giving him a chance to show off his skating abilities and underrated defensive game. The Swedish forward recorded 80 points in 81 games last season and expect to see him reach the 90-95 point plateau in 2022-23.
Denis Malgin
One name that has been hovering around the Toronto media for a few seasons now, Denis Malgin is back with the Maple Leafs and set to make his season debut in their opener on Wednesday in Montreal. Malgin was a beast during the preseason, showing off some impressive chemistry with Nylander and a work ethic that was not matched by any player in a Maple Leafs' uniform. Malgin's a smaller forward at under six feet but it's his tenancity, forechecking abilities and hockey IQ that helps him gain a step on the competition. Look for Malgin to stick with Toronto this season and have the best NHL campaign of his career.
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
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