19-year-old Maple Leafs prospect delivers stunning disappointment during preseason tilt

Toronto Maple Leafs second-round pick Tinus-Luc Koblar came into training camp with a plethora of expectations, and he did not deliver on Saturday night.

Toronto Maple Leafs fans projected lofty expectations onto Tinus-Luc Koblar coming into camp, and there were few reasons to do so.

With Leksands in the SHL last season, the 19-year-old Leafs prospect had just 14 points in 47 games. A solid showing for a young player, but not exactly anything to write home about.

These lofty expectations followed him into his preseason debut against the Montreal Canadiens. As reporter Jeff Veilette noted on social media, Koblar was not the player some fans promised. Instead, he was behind the eight-ball, and clearly needs some work.

If all I knew about Tinus Luc Koblar was what social media hyped up to me this summer, I'd be unsure if I was watching the same player in this game. Feels a step behind the play. No biggie, he's 19, but those who expected him to make a huge impression may want to roll back a bit.

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Veillette added that he still believes Koblar can be a good player, but fans need to pump the brakes on projecting him as a second-line NHL center.

I have tons of time for Koblar to eventually get there and I'm excited to see his development. But there was a healthy contingent on here not only expecting him to make the opening night roster, but to take Tavares' spot at 2C by the end of next week lol

What is next for Koblar

After his showing in preseason, it is clear that he is not ready for the NHL, and he may not be ready for the AHL either.

With that in mind, another year in the SHL could certainly do him some good. Leksands is going to want to provide him with the opportunities to develop, while also contributing offensively.

While this may be a disappointment to some of the fans out there, it is important to realize that these kinds of setbacks are going to happen to young players.

However, if Koblar can stay the course and have a solid club season, then there is still hope for him to be the center the Leafs want and need.

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