The Toronto Maple Leafs have a fantastic forward group, but it's their young prospects that are giving their fans perhaps the most optimism as the season approaches.
A former top prospect
While many will focus on Matthew Knies and the solid start of Easton Cowan, it's Nick Robertson, a former second-round pick that could perhaps be the biggest difference maker, especially if he can stay healthy in 2023-24.
Despite making his NHL debut back in 2020-21, Robertson has played in just 31 games, tallying 7 points over that time, but now that he appears to be healthy, there's optimism around Leafs camp that he could find a spot on this forward group this upcoming year.
A golden opportunity
Now, he's potentially getting his chance, as it has been reported that Robertson was skating on a line with Max Domi and William Nylander, and while that's likely to be Calle Jarnkrok's spot, if he remains out with a mysterious issue, Robertson could just as easily take that spot.
Ultimately, the time is now for the 22-year old to make a name for himself, as his time in the NHL thus far has shown off his considerable talent, and with two playmakers like Domi and Nylander, he could find his perfect spot on the third line, so keep an eye on this line as the pre-season rolls on.