Five Toronto Marlies players who are destined for success with the Maple Leafs
The Toronto Marlies remain a critical development ground for the Toronto Maple Leafs by producing talent that could soon impact the NHL roster.
As seen on The Hockey Writers, here are six prospects to watch that would come from the Toronto Marlies:
Alex Steeves is a dynamic scorer with 19 points in 13 AHL games this season and he recently became the Marlies all-time leading scorer and could provide energy and depth scoring in the Leafs' bottom six if he was being called up again.
Artur Akhtyamov has impressed in his first North American season by posting a stellar 1.84 GAA and .929 save percentage.
He may surpass Dennis Hildeby in the goalie pipeline and could offer stability if injuries arise for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL.
William Villeneuve is showing growth as a puck-moving defenseman.
After a slow start, he has improved a lot his mobility and defensive play, but breaking into the Leafs' blue line remains tough since the blue-line is looking pretty strong this year.
Nick Abruzzese continues to show his hockey IQ and polyvalence though his skating and size limit his ceiling to a bottom-six role, his playmaking skills make him a reliable depth option for and injury if needed during a playoff push for example.
Fraser Minten has impressed during his NHL call-up with his two-way play and composure and coach Craig Berube praised him.
Fraser Minten's adaptability and leadership suggest he could be a long-term player in the Leafs' lineup in a not so far futur.
Topi Niemelä is the Marlies' top-scoring defenseman with nine assists in 16 games.
However, his smaller size and inconsistent defensive play have clouded his NHL future since the Leafs' have a certain preference for bigger defensemen.
While Fraser Minten may have already secured his spot in the Leafs for the future, Alex steeves and Artur Akhtyamov are closest to NHL roles.
William Villeneuve, Nick Abruzzese, and Topi Niemelä on their side must prove they can meet the demands of NHL competition.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 12 | 131 ANSWERS Five Toronto Marlies players who are destined for success with the Maple Leafs Do you think one of these players will become a superstar in the NHL someday? | ||
| Yes | 110 | 84 % |
| No | 21 | 16 % |
| List of polls | ||
