It looks like we're going to have quite the battle at training camp this year, as some of the Toronto Marlies' best young players fight for the Leafs 12th forward spot.
Among these young prospects includes Pontus Holmberg, Bobby McMann, Alex Steeves, and Nick Abruzzese. All four of these young forwards have made incredible progress since being drafted and would be nice additions to the Leafs' bottom six.
Now the question remains as to who earns this final spot, and how close the battle will be.
If GM Brad Treliving decides that none of these young players are truly ready for the NHL, he could go out and sign a veteran forward to fill in this final slot. This would add some experience to the Leafs' roster while letting the young guns marinate a bit longer in the AHL.
If the Leafs do decide to go this route, they shouldn't have much trouble finding someone to fill that slot. There are still plenty of free-agent forwards left to be signed, and perhaps they could even go after a skilled guy like Tomas Tatar on a cheap, one-year deal.
We can't wait to see what the Leafs do with this situation.
As Seen on Leafs Nation - 4 Marlies who could take the Toronto Maple Leafs' last forward spot
POLL | ||
Should the Leafs sign a veteran to fill this spot, or let a prospect take it? | ||
Veteran | 683 | 31.7 % |
Prospect | 1474 | 68.3 % |
List of polls |