Okay, we all know who the established players are in this league and we all know what they can do, but here are my top five players who are ready to step up and make a big impact this season:1) Andrew Ladd-Chicago Blackhawks: Ladd has struggled with injuries during his first few NHL seasons, but was starting to find his game just before and after his trade to Chicago. Ladd has all the makings of a premier power-forward and, in my opinion, will be better than Erik Cole when he finally reaches his potential.
2) Ian White- Toronto Maple Leafs: While White has been streaky at best playing for the leafs, i fully believe he will step up and be a conistant threat from the blueline for this team. Despite his small stature for a defenseman, White has alot of upside.
3) Kyle Chipchurra-Montreal Canadiens: Former Prince Albert Raiders captain and member of Canada's World Junior squad, Chipchurra has all the makings of a solid, defensive center. After playing on and off with the Habs, expect Chipchurra to grab a firm hold of the third line center position. This kid has "Captain" written all over him.
4) Steve Bernier- Vancouver Canucks: Bernier has been bounced around a little bit lately, but looks to be ready to step up his game and be a real difference maker. Expect him to get ice time with the top two lines.
5) Patrick Eaves- Carolina Hurricanes: Eaves is another of those players who has struggled at times with injuries and has yet to reach his full potential, however it appears that this will be his "Make or Break" season. Alot of his future is based around his performance this year and will undoubtedly determine whether he is ready to be a top six forward, or whether he will top out as a third line role player... personally, I think it's the former, but he may have trouble getting ice time with the likes of Justin Williams, Sergei Samsonov, Tuomo Ruutu, and Ray Whitney ahead of him.
5 comments:
Ladd was supposed to breakout last season, but he flopped. White might have a chance to see PP time if McCabe is traded and Colaiacovo is injured (very likely). Chip has no offensive upside, don't expect more than 20 points from him. Bernier could not produce with Marleau & Thornton, don't expect him to product in Van City! Eaves should fare well if he's not injured!
Ladd didn't get the ice time, and was injured last season. Everything in his game has been solid, the points just weren't coming If he continues his hard work, the points will come.
Chip will be a solid 30-40 point player in the NHL. I expect round 25 this year if he stays in the line-up.
Bernier will continue to look like a bust. Kid did nothing after his first game in Buffalo. Thank god we traded him.
i liked bernier in san jose, didnt do much in buffalo though but that could be because san jose was a much more skilled team than the sabres last season. hopefully he can pick it up in vancouver
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