The National Hockey League begins its 100th season on Wednesday, October 12. As 30 teams prepare to slog it out for a shot at the Stanley Cup eight months hence, The National’s Rob McKenzie takes a look at five players pivotal to their franchises’ fortunes.
Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers
The next great player’s rookie season was halved by a fractured clavicle. If McDavid stays healthy he can challenge Sidney Crosby and Patrick Kane for the scoring lead.
PK Subban, Nashville Predators
His trade from Montreal for Shea Weber on June 29 shocked the league. Subban’s nature could make or break the hitherto rock-steady Preds.
Brent Burns, San Jose Sharks
He was a finalist for the league’s best-defenceman trophy and needs to maintain that level if the Sharks are to have any chance of replicating their 2015/16 success.
Andrei Vasilevskiy, Tampa Bay Lightning
If the Russian continues his ascent, the Bolts can afford to trade nominal starter Ben Bishop -- and pick up some of the defensive depth they will need in the playoffs.
Patrik Laine, Winnipeg Jets
Winterpeg’s highs have always featured Scandinavians, from the early years with Hedberg, Sjoberg and Nilsson to the glory of Teemu Selanne. Laine, a Finnish wingman drafted second overall, could be next.
rmckenzie@thenational.ae
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