Marner's chances to earn an opening-game start on the Leafs' roster improved Thursday when Joffrey Lupul failed his phsyical.

EDGE Analysis

Lupul will start the season on injured reserve, leaving a spot on the wing up for grabs. Marner's monster OHL season from last year makes him an obvious choice for the role, but it remains to be seen how many young players the team will carry. Marner's options for 2016-17 are limited -- it's NHL or back to junior. He is not eligible for AHL duty and the game growth that would come from playing minor pro.