Over the summer, Toronto Maple Leaf fans debated the merits of general manager Brain Burke bringing in another top six forward. Some felt a winger was of the utmost importance, others (including myself) felt a centre was a bigger need, but everyone agreed more depth was needed.
Those that felt a centre was not necessary felt sophomore forward Tyler Bozak would be able to handle the load on the top line, while others pointed to the emerging Nazem Kadri as being the answer.
Through 24 games, the Maple Leafs had “earned” a record of 8-12-4. The power play was mediocre at best, the penalty kill was a shambles, the offense was anemic and the overall forward group was being criticized for a lack of results.
Throughout the first 24 games, head coach Ron Wilson tweaked his top-six forwards a number of times, playing Kris Versteeg on the first, second and third lines.
Spotting Kadri on the first and second unit, as well as moving Nikolai Kulemin onto the first line for a couple of games. Not to mention a number of other moves designed to get his squad going.
Needles to say, most of those moves failed. Bozak never got go ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Mark Ritter
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