Post by LeafsGM on Oct 30, 2013 10:02:42 GMT -5
With the 2013-14 JGHL season ready to kick off, the Maple Leafs are in a transitional phase that should shape the next 3-5 years for the franchise. The divisions have been restored to previous state, which means old rivals are now new.
To compete moving forward, parts of the slate need to be cleaned. In a series of moves since free agency, gone are Andrew Ladd, Patrick Sharp, Dennis Wideman, Kyle Brodziak, Braydon Coburn, and Jason Zucker. In are Joe Pavelski, Jussi Jokinen, Barret Jackman, and Daniel Winnik. New additions that Leaf fans are most excited about will not be contributing to the roster this season. Prospects Sean Monahan, Nikita Zadorov, Emile Poirier, Ryan Sproul, Jon Merrill, and Chris Bigras, should all have an impact on the big club at some point down the road.
Until then, fans will have to endure what could be a tough season in terms of results. Playoffs are not out of reach, but the motto “Win big or go home” is still prevalent in the Leafs locker room, as well as upstairs. This begs the question, should management continue to unload star talent and stockpile prospects? Or should they try to add a few pieces to improve the current aging roster? As the season goes these will be answered concisely.
Rumors have been swirling around the status of captain Henrik Zetterberg. Arguably the heart and soul of the Leafs, Z has gone on record to say that he prefers to not be a part of a rebuild at this stage of his career, but will do as management sees fit. Then there is Brad Richards who is a pending UFA at the end of the season: “I’ve been with this team for 8 years, I met my wife here, my kids have grown up in Toronto. This is home, but I would fully understand if they decide to move me.. It's a business” There are other players whose future with the team remains uncertain. Star winger Marian Gaborik recently put his Front street condo up for sale. Jay McClement was spotted at Eatons center shopping for luggage. David Desharnais has been practicing with the AHL Marlies, a team he probably belongs on at this point.
A new season comes with new story lines, new rivals and new stars. The 11th JGHL season should be filled with all of them.
To compete moving forward, parts of the slate need to be cleaned. In a series of moves since free agency, gone are Andrew Ladd, Patrick Sharp, Dennis Wideman, Kyle Brodziak, Braydon Coburn, and Jason Zucker. In are Joe Pavelski, Jussi Jokinen, Barret Jackman, and Daniel Winnik. New additions that Leaf fans are most excited about will not be contributing to the roster this season. Prospects Sean Monahan, Nikita Zadorov, Emile Poirier, Ryan Sproul, Jon Merrill, and Chris Bigras, should all have an impact on the big club at some point down the road.
Until then, fans will have to endure what could be a tough season in terms of results. Playoffs are not out of reach, but the motto “Win big or go home” is still prevalent in the Leafs locker room, as well as upstairs. This begs the question, should management continue to unload star talent and stockpile prospects? Or should they try to add a few pieces to improve the current aging roster? As the season goes these will be answered concisely.
Rumors have been swirling around the status of captain Henrik Zetterberg. Arguably the heart and soul of the Leafs, Z has gone on record to say that he prefers to not be a part of a rebuild at this stage of his career, but will do as management sees fit. Then there is Brad Richards who is a pending UFA at the end of the season: “I’ve been with this team for 8 years, I met my wife here, my kids have grown up in Toronto. This is home, but I would fully understand if they decide to move me.. It's a business” There are other players whose future with the team remains uncertain. Star winger Marian Gaborik recently put his Front street condo up for sale. Jay McClement was spotted at Eatons center shopping for luggage. David Desharnais has been practicing with the AHL Marlies, a team he probably belongs on at this point.
A new season comes with new story lines, new rivals and new stars. The 11th JGHL season should be filled with all of them.