We are almost at the holiday roster freeze in the NHL, which takes place from Dec. 20–27, 2023. This is always a good time to look at the American Hockey League (AHL) for your favourite teams and see who is standing out. For Toronto Maple Leafs fans, we will look at some names on their AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, who are doing well this season. Some names could be seen as the ‘future’ of the team, as well as some players who are seasoned veterans who may be able to fill a hole when injuries arise.
Nick Abruzzese – Center/Left Wing
Nick Abruzzese has had a strange start to his professional hockey career. When he signed with the Maple Leafs out of Harvard University in 2021–22, he immediately reported to the NHL club. He appeared in nine games near the end of the season and scored one goal. However, after those nine regular-season games, he didn’t dress again that year. Mind you, the team was in the playoffs, and with him being played down the stretch, it gave the club the ability to give players some rest. It was bizarre, though, because he was sent down to the Marlies during the 2022–23 NHL training camp, and he played almost the whole season in the AHL. This season, Abruzzese was thought to be one of the players fighting for a spot on the fourth line, and again, he was sent down. It has proven to be the right decision by the Maple Leafs.
This season, he has been good with four goals and 12 assists for 16 points in 21 games, which is second on the team in points. He and his line, consisting of Dylan Gambrell and Alex Steeves, have been good for the Marlies. The 24-year-old is on pace to have 14 goals and 41 assists for 55 points in 72 AHL games. He has played himself into a spot where, if an injury occurs to a forward on the Maple Leafs, he could hear his name called to join the club. He can also play down the middle or on the wing, and due to that versatility, he could have a long-lasting professional hockey career, regardless of whether that is in the AHL or NHL.
Dennis Hildeby – Goaltender
Does it not seem like we will eventually see Dennis Hildeby and Joseph Woll as the Maple Leafs’ one-two punch between the pipes in the future? Hildeby was a fourth-round draft pick in the 2022 NHL Draft and has progressed very nicely for the Maple Leafs. He is having an outstanding season for the Marlies, and when given the chance, he will be with the Maple Leafs in the future. He may even challenge for the backup role on the Maple Leafs…
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