Maple Leafs have pieces to build new core without rebuilding

"So, assuming such a fate will befall the Maple Leafs at some point, there might be a silver lining. Despite years of gutting their system, the Leafs, incredibly, have enough pieces to build a new core without heading into a full-blown rebuild. The most notable piece has to be Matthew Knies. Knies is just 23 and has already established himself as a legit top-line power forward. He could be on track to terrorize the league for years to come."

"Then, there's Easton Cowan. The 20-year-old has asserted himself as a full-time NHLer this season. He's left little doubt he belongs in the NHL. Even though he got off to a slow start, he's gained increasing confidence in his role. Another key piece, as implausible as it may seem, is Nick Robertson. Robertson has been a much-maligned player. But his emergence this season has earned him a key role on the team."

Roster turnover is inevitable in the NHL as teams succumb to age and attrition. The current Maple Leafs core will eventually give way to a new group of players. Rebuilds become common when veteran cores age, as seen with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Despite years of gutting their system, the Maple Leafs retain enough young pieces to avoid a full-blown rebuild. Matthew Knies projects as a top-line power forward at 23. Easton Cowan has earned a full-time NHL role and growing confidence. Nick Robertson has emerged into a key role. Dennis Hildeby has shown poise and NHL readiness as a goalie.

Read at Editor In Leaf