It’s not really shocking to say that a team that finished in the lottery needs pretty much everything. They have some pieces. But there is no irreplaceable player on the team. More than talent though is the need for the right workethic and an attitude that goes beyond truculent.
Goaltending is a major concern. None of the men who wandered through the crease for the Maple Leafs put up anything like a respectable set of stats. This isn’t just their problem. But it speaks to a lack of quality scouting historically at this position. I don’t however see Burke picking a goaltender in the first round.
At forward a center is never a bad choice, but I don’t think the team has given up on Kadri quite yet. There are a couple wingers playing for the Marlies who might make the jump this year, assuming the season is played. But none of them possess the attitude needed. This team needs never-stops-going leader like the Avalanche picked in Landeskog who contributes in all areas. The quiet vocal leader won’t cut it with a team that has talentbut lacks drive. Ideally they’d get two or three of the on ice leader types in this draft. For pure ability and attitude if they are on the board I pick either Forsberg or Dumba. Forsberg will probably crack the lineup sooner, he’s a forward, larger, and has had some success internationally.
