I don't know what it is, but the Leafs rarely give their Young guys a shot at playing on the top lines. They had barabonov but relegated him to the bottom pairing without an actual shot. Then he flourishes, albeit in a limited sample, playing w Kane and Couture/Hertl. But then Galchenyuk is on his 5th team this year and he gets plenty of playing time with the 2nd line. 🤨

Barabanov was 26 last season, not a young guy, similar to Mikheyev and didn't crack the top 6 due to lack of talent. Until this upcoming season there was only one spot up for grabs in the top 6

Robertson is just 19, more than 2 years younger than his brother Jason, was injured and only played 21 career AHL Goals until now. It takes some time to push him in a top 6 roll. Kerfoot will move to the wing, Dubas said as well. So you promote Kämpf to the 3rd line and bring in Brooks for the 4th C position. Mikheyev is likely gonna traded. I would look at this with a smile in one eye and a tear in the other.

I don't think it's a guarantee that Kerf plays LW in the top 6

Rookies and unproven players is what I should have said. Ill be surprised if Bunting even plays on the top line for more than a few shifts.

I think the goal is to test all of these guys in the top 6 on LW and see who sticks

Robertson = Marlies

If he does well he gets a shot.

I mostly agree but if he comes out flying in camp he'll get a shot