Fansided

NHL Playoffs: 5 sleeper players to watch

By Nathaniel Reeves

Jan 19, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Washington Capitals right wing Justin Williams (14) shoots against the Columbus Blue Jackets during the third period at Nationwide Arena. Washington defeated Columbus 6-3. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 19, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Washington Capitals right wing Justin Williams (14) shoots against the Columbus Blue Jackets during the third period at Nationwide Arena. Washington defeated Columbus 6-3. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jonathan Drouin
Oct 21, 2014; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Jonathan Drouin (27) skates against the Calgary Flames during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Tampa Bay Lightning won in overtime 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports /

. LW. Tampa Bay Lightning. Jonathan Drouin. 3. player. 23

It’s been quite a strange year for Drouin, who has been in the news far more for things off the ice rather than any production he’s added for the Lightning. However, Drouin is going to get a great opportunity to change the story of his 2015-2016 season, and has the ability to be a major factor for Tampa Bay in the postseason.

A tremendous talent at just 21 years old, Drouin tallied 32 points in limited playing time in 2014-15 while flashing some of his huge upside. However, Drouin was benched for most of last postseason, and was sent down in January with no real role on the roster.

Drouin then publicly demanded a trade and refused to play for Tampa’s AHL affiliate, leading to a six-week suspension. Fans in Tampa Bay were obviously not happy with Drouin, and it looked like he would never play for the Lightning again.

However, recent injuries have forced Tampa Bay’s hand, and the team called Drouin up last week. Steven Stamkos, Anton Stralman and Victor Hedman are among the players who have been out recently, and it appears Drouin is going to be a top six player for the Lightning this postseason.

Drouin has been solid since the call up, scoring one goal in each of his two games. If Tampa Bay is going anywhere in the postseason, it needs Drouin to play to the best of his ability. Who knows how the rift with the team will impact his performance, but the talent is there for Drouin to be a major force during the playoffs.

Next: 2. Derick Brassard, C, New York Rangers

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