Chutes And Ladders: Toronto Maple Leafs

For the last couple of days, and continuing for the next few days, I have been and will be looking at each team in the NHL and identifying a couple of players in particular that fit into one of two categories based on the once popular kids game, Chutes and Ladders.  The players in the “chutes” category will be players who exceeded expectations last season, and will have a difficult time avoiding a slide in the coming season.  The “ladder” category will consist of players who are ready to climb a level in their play and step up a notch.  Feel free to brows back to see previous teams, and look for more teams in the coming days.

TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS

May 10, 2013; Boston, MA USA; Toronto Maple Leafs center Tyler Bozak (42) scores a shorthanded goal past Boston Bruins goalie Tuukka Rask (40) during the second period in game five of the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

Chutes:  Tyler Bozak – After playing as the number 1 centre almost because there was no other option, somehow Bozak got into his mind that he was a true first line pivot and wanted to get paid that way.  Now that he has  his 5 year deal in his pocket, it is time to earn that deal.  I’m still not convinced he can live up to it, and if he wasn’t such good friends with pending UFA in 2014 Phil Kessel, they might have let him walk.  He is a good player, but I think his contract request were a bit much for what he offers, even though he eventually settled for a more reasonable number.

Jun 15, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Dave Bolland (36) yells at Boston Bruins left wing Brad Marchand (63) during the second period in game two of the 2013 Stanley Cup Final at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports

Ladders:  Dave Bolland

While the acquisitions of David Clarkson and Jonathan Bernier might have overshadowed Bolland joining the Leafs, Bolland could have the most impact of all the new Leafs.  Likely ticketed for a second line centre role, Bolland will get more of a chance to show his offensive skills, which were not as evident playing in a stacked Chicago system.  He will become one of the big reasons the Leafs are a pain to play against this coming season.