Maple Leafs: Five players with plenty to prove as puck drops on training camp
Maple Leafs training camp was interesting enough before the Michael Grabner trade Thursday.
A summer of change at the coaching and executive level opened the doors to a rebuild and a whole new level of opportunity for young and older players alike.
With the 27-year-old Grabner in the fold, it appears the Leafs may be keeping 19-year-old William Nylander in the AHL for most, if not all, of the upcoming season.
But with the NHL team, several players are either looking at great opportunities, a revitalization project under coach Mike Babcock, or are on the hot seat.
Here’s a look at five players and what they are facing now that camp is open:
JONATHAN BERNIER
Not the automatic No. 1 goalie, at least there’s no immediate indication of that. Babcock, who normally goes with a No. 1 goalie and gives him the bulk of the work, plans to let Bernier and James Reimer compete for top honours. Bernier should have the inside track, but he has a lot to prove. He agreed to a two-year, $8.3-million deal, which provides a new window for him to cement his No. 1 status.
JOFFREY LUPUL
Lupul appears to have a new life under Babcock. His name was mentioned frequently in trade rumours the past two seasons, and he admits freely he was not up to expectations last season. But a good summer where he learned new methods of stretching and injury prevention have helped. And Lupul spoke of being in Toronto long term Thursday, which suggests he’s regained confidence from the coaching staff.
DION PHANEUF
Interestingly, Babcock came out firing in support of his captain, saying he’s going to work with him, build him up and give him one day off from addressing the local media each week. Phaneuf is poised for his best season as a Leaf.
He expressed confidence that he and Babcock have spoken at length over the summer and he will have a strong line of communication with the coach.
BRAD BOYES
One of three players in camp on professional tryouts, along with Curtis Glencross and Mark Fraser, Boyes may have a shot at a top-six forward role. He’s been a proven goal scorer in the past and is a veteran of seven NHL teams. The 33-year-old was drafted by Toronto in 2000 and finds himself coming full circle now, as an experienced, anchor-type player.
JAMES VAN RIEMSDYK
A pivotal question in camp is, “Who will play with JVR?” The Leafs’ leading goal scorer last season, Van Riemsdyk will almost certainly be on the top line, but with whom? Early guesses have him restored with centre Tyler Bozak, but the winger who will replace Phil Kessel on that line is a work in progress. Possibilities could include the newly acquired Grabner.