Not many thought the Maple Leafs were ready to make the playoffs last season but they surprised everyone by not only making it as a #5 seed but coming within minutes of advancing to the second round, if not for some miraculous comeback by the Boston Bruins from a 4-1 deficit with just over 10 minutes left in the third period of Game 7 of the opening round. That started the off-season rumor that Roberto Luongo was most likely the next Leafs goaltender but again, many were shocked that on draft day it was Cory Schneider that was dealt away to the NJ Devils, meaning Luongo was staying in Vancouver. The Leafs made a few additions and are in the process of tying up their loose ends before the start of camp. Will this be enough for them to return to the playoffs?
Goalies
After a mediocre 2011-2012 where Reimer went 14-14-4 in only 34 games played because of injury, there was some doubt as to whether he had what it took to be solid No. 1 goaltender in the NHL. He quieted his critics with a 19-8-5 record in 33 games with a 2.46 GAA and .924 SP along with 4 shutouts. Reimer was on the brink of advancing the Leafs into the second round before the roof caved in on him and the team, blowing a 3-goal lead in the 3rd period of Game 7. Looking to shore up the net, the leafs obtained LA Kings G Jonathan Bernier for Ben Scrivens , Matt Frattin and a 2nd round pick. Look for the two to push each other and split time until one outplays the other and grabs the No. 1 role.
Defense
Dion Phaneuf leads this patched up defense along with John-Michael Liles, although it appears Liles is counted on less these days with the emergence of Cody Franson, who, by the way, is still without a contract heading into camp. Jake Gardiner should start to make a presence for himself on the blue line after recovering from concussion symptoms. Expect the bulk of the offense to come from Phaneuf and Franson if he signs. IF Franson doesn't sign, that may open up some opportunities for youngsters like Gardiner and perhaps Morgan Rielly (more on Rielly later in the "Prospects" section). You can never count out Liles as he possesses high level offensive capabilities, so stash him away if you are in a deep draft or deep roster.
Forwards
Now that all the forwards are locked in, this unit should be very explosive again this year. Phil Kessel is in his prime and Joffrey Lupul just loves playing alongside him as he definitely reaps the benefits. We expect this duo to continue their magic, barring injury of course. Tyler Bozak is the Center for the top line, so don't forget about him. Mikhail Grabovski was shown the door. Nazem Kadri has been sewn up for the next 2 years and needs to continue to perform at last year's level. No time to slack off. James van Riemsdyk has a year under his belt playing in TO and should improve on his numbers as well and newcomer David Clarkson should slot in nicely as their line. The other newcomer, Dave Bolland, should suit the third line center role to a T. Nikolai Kulemin will get you some points but is stuck far behind on the depth chart to be of any real significance fantasy-wise.
Prospects
The team has brought up most of the young talent that is ready for the NHL but there is one player who seems determined to make it difficult for the coaching staff to send him back. His name is Morgan Rielly. Rielly has his sights set on making the big club this season but it may be wise for the Leafs to let him get some time in at the AHL level. Unless there is a major injury, I don't expect him to be with the club come October 1st. Center Joe Colborne, wings Tyler Biggs & Carter Ashton, along with D-man T. J. Brennan all will need some additional seasoning before seeing time in the NHL unless traded away.
Overall Fantasy Outlook
The Maple Leafs made the necessary jump into the playoff club and will now have to continue to grow and advance each step of the way. They have all the necessary ingredients now and hopefully their goaltending will be enough to get them deeper into the playoffs. It is not uncommon for young teams to take a step back after making the playoffs, and with the 3rd period meltdown against the Bruins, they will need to get off to a good start. Head Coach Randy Carlyle will surely have them focused on the road ahead. Exciting things are happening for the Toronto Maple Leafs and their fans, so we expect another exciting season ahead and another playoff berth.
NHL IN 30-2013/14: TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS primepucks.comSat 9/14/13 9:21 AM