Leafs’ Nylander Experiment Among NHL’s 5 Biggest Storylines Unfolding This Preseason
The preseason is always an exciting time for hockey fans, as it gives them a glimpse into what the upcoming NHL season might hold. It’s a time for teams to experiment with different line combinations, test out new strategies, and give younger players a chance to prove themselves. This year is no different, with several intriguing storylines already unfolding.
One of the most notable storylines to watch is the Toronto Maple Leafs’ experiment with William Nylander. The talented forward has long been a source of debate among Leafs fans, with some believing he has yet to reach his full potential. This preseason, the team has decided to give Nylander a chance to play on the top line alongside Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner.
It’s a move that has garnered a lot of attention, as it could have a significant impact on the team’s success this season. If Nylander can find chemistry with Matthews and Marner, it could create one of the most dangerous lines in the NHL. On the other hand, if the experiment fails, it could lead to further questions about Nylander’s future with the team.
Another storyline to keep an eye on is the battle for the starting goaltender position in Montreal. After acquiring Jake Allen in the offseason, the Canadiens now have a legitimate competition between Allen and Carey Price. Both goalies have proven themselves in the past, but only one can be the number one. The preseason will be crucial in helping the coaching staff make their decision.
In Vancouver, all eyes will be on rookie defenseman Quinn Hughes. The young blueliner burst onto the scene last season and quickly established himself as one of the team’s top players. Now, with a full offseason to train and prepare, Hughes will be looking to take his game to the next level. Fans will be eager to see if he can continue to impress and solidify his status as a cornerstone of the Canucks’ defense.
Meanwhile, in Edmonton, the focus will be on the dynamic duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The two superstars have been dominant in recent years, but the Oilers have struggled to build a winning team around them. This preseason will be an opportunity for the team to experiment with different line combinations and find the right supporting cast for their star players.
Finally, in Tampa Bay, all eyes will be on Nikita Kucherov. The Lightning forward missed the entire regular season last year due to injury but returned in time for the playoffs and played a key role in the team’s championship run. Now, fans will be eager to see if Kucherov can pick up where he left off and continue to be a driving force for the Lightning.
These are just a few of the many storylines to watch as the preseason unfolds. It’s an exciting time for hockey fans, as they get a taste of what’s to come in the upcoming NHL season. Whether it’s the Leafs’ Nylander experiment, the goaltending battle in Montreal, or the continued dominance of McDavid and Draisaitl, there’s no shortage of intriguing storylines to follow.
Leafs’ Nylander Experiment