Jonathan Willis from sportsnet.ca took a look at 5 players that could really upgrade their offensive production this year. With all kind of potential, it is just a matter of small details that these men show the world of hockey just how good they are.
- Nazem Kadri, Toronto Maple Leafs: Kadri is likely the Leafs' number one center this year. With Phil vessel gone, it would be surprising to see Tyler Bozak hanging on to the top spot. This promotion and his own development will likely see Kadri hit new personal numbers.
- Nathan MacKinnon, Colorado Avalanche: MacKinnon, strangely, has seen is point totals fall down almost 50% even though his offensive stats were on the rise compared to his rookie campaign. The problem was his power-play numbers. MacKinnon's poor offensive production from last season might just have been pure bad luck. Expect his numbers to go through the roof.
- Justin Schultz, Edmonton Oilers: Schult's numbers on the power-play last year were terrible. Coach Eakins has a track record to have terrible numbers with the man advantage. When coach Todd Nelson took over, Shultz's numbers took a very profitable turn. expect him to be a huge part of Todd Maclean's power-play strategy.
- Jakob Silfverberg, Anaheim Ducks: Jakub Silfverberg had 39 points last season, while playing virtually zero minutes on the power-play. Now, for the next season, Silfverberg should see more offensive minutes and some power-play time. He should get close to 50 points next season.
- Ryan Strome, New York Islanders: Strome had better numbers than Tavares last year per hour at even strength. That saying a lot about Strome's potential. Now, he needs to capitalized on his opportunities and he will surely do. Storm is the Islanders' second line center for a long time, unless he decides to try his luck at a number spot on a different team. Look for him to get at least 55 points this year.
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