Maple Leafs Prospects To Watch During The Preseason – Hockey Writers – Maple Leafs Prospects

Toronto Maple Leafs training camp is already underway and now the focus is on the competition and the battle for roster spots as players make their case to join the team. As in previous camps, there are very few places to be caught, so players cannot afford to make mistakes. One game can be the difference between starting in the NHL, getting sent down or being released from tryouts.

Names like Max Pacioretty and Nick Robertson will definitely want to prove their worth and stay on the roster, but let’s not forget about the young prospects and youth movement that are about to graduate to the next level. We know that Easton Cowan is determined to make the roster and even though Fraser Minten is out with a high-ankle sprain, he may be the one name that had high hopes of making the roster after earning that right last season.

However, after the recent showing, there are a few other names that should get more attention during camp and throughout the preseason.

Topi Niemelä

If you’ve seen Topi Niemelä’s name frequently in these prospect/highlight pieces, it’s because there’s a chance for the game to catch the attention of the Maple Leafs brass. As a result, his performance in the prospecting exhibition should carry over into camp.

Niemelä had a strong rookie campaign with 39 points in 68 games with the Toronto Marlies last season. It was an adjustment period moving from European ice to North American ice, but he continued to improve as the season progressed. Now, it looks like he may have taken a big step forward with his post-workout performance.

Niemelä’s quick movement from the back and overall offensive awareness were on full display on the Maple Leafs blue line. Every time he had the puck, he was always in control and leading the game. Whether it was coming out of his zone, or making cool plays on the blue line, he was there to make the difference. He was a playmaking machine with five assists in two games. He was able to get pucks to the net effectively, creating multiple scoring opportunities. Clever puck placement, calm demeanor, intelligence and vision were evident and should be the reasons why he received so much attention.

While there may be some logjams on defense, Niemelä feels confident heading into camp after his performance. Increased composure, confidence and more energy could help him reach a spot on the roster.

Late Webber

When Cade Webber was acquired from the Carolina Hurricanes at the trade deadline, it was the acquisition of a defenseman that the Maple Leafs desperately needed – a stable, reliable defenseman in his position.

The Maple Leafs have had an emphasis on drafting mobile, agile defensemen, but they’ve never had a player with Webber’s mentality and skill set. He was named the NCAA Hockey East Defensive Player of the Year and it showed during the rally. He was very impressive with his instincts for protection, awareness and poise. He always pressured opponents, whether it was defending the rush or one-on-one situations, he made his presence felt. The combination of his size and foot speed allows him to close gaps quickly and clear routes efficiently.

Related: Maple Leafs’ Robertson Could Have 3 Outcomes After 1-Year Deal

Webber was a cool presence at the back with Niemelä leading the offensive charge, but Webber didn’t shy away from opportunities when he got the chance. He picked his spots to join the run and get involved in the attack in the offensive zone. If he can add an offensive element to his game, he can be more than a shutdown defender. This camp is a great opportunity to show his strength but add more to his game.

While Webber may be very low on the depth chart, there may be a chance for a left-handed shooting guard down the stretch if he continues to impress.

Nikita Grebenkin

Nikita Grebenkin only played one game during the tournament, but that may have been enough for the staff to feel that he should be ready to fight for a spot during practice. He even got the attention of general manager Brad Treliving.

As Grebenkin looked to push and earn a spot on the roster, he started a lineup with Pacioretty and Pontus Holmberg on the first day of camp. Already having plenty of experience in the KHL, winning the Gagarin Cup last season, Grebenkin plays a solid power game as a playmaking winger. He works well in tight spaces and always fights for position and possession of the puck. He has the speed and efficiency to get in quickly and set up an attack. When in control, he uses his size and puck handling skills to push his way to the net. He is very difficult to catch and always produces quality scoring chances.

Of all the young players coming into camp, Grebenkin probably has the best chance of finding his way into the team at some point. He follows the rules of the road and the style that the team wants to follow. The steps they have taken to continue growing and improving over the past few seasons are also a big indication as to why.

Related: How Maple Leafs Players Spent Their Summer?

Webber, Niemelä and Grebenkin all had reason for many to be wary as the season began, but their play in the potential tournament should garner a lot of attention as they may be headed for more than a stint in the minor leagues. All three got that chance as they wanted to earn a spot on the roster with their play.