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NHL: Five bounce back candidates in 2016-17

By Dave Stevenson

Dec 12, 2015; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames left wing Mason Raymond (21) chases after New York Rangers left wing Rick Nash (61) during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 12, 2015; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames left wing Mason Raymond (21) chases after New York Rangers left wing Rick Nash (61) during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Nazem Kadri

Fans had very high expectations for Nazem Kadri of the Toronto Maple Leafs last season. They looked at his consistent high shooting percentage and expected it to rise from his 2014-15 shooting percentage of 10.2 percent. It didn’t rise. In fact, it fell to 6.5 percent, which is six percent lower than his career average before the 2015-16 season.

What caused this? Who knows. One thing is for sure: It wasn’t distance. While his average shot distance at even strength raised from 28.91 to 29.29, 4.5 inches (38 percent of a foot) should not drag your shooting percentage down four percentage points.

Fans should be optimistic for Kadri entering the 2016 NHL season. The biggest reason why? Kadri is generating shot attempts at an extremely impressive rate, finishing seventh among all players with at least 700 minutes at even strength with 11.13 even strength shots on goal per 60 minutes.

Kadri should see an uptick in his production as the Maple Leafs have improved as a team. With more consistent linemates, his production should be bolstered. The injury to James van Riemsdyk significantly hurt Kadri because the two are so effective together.

Despite seeing a huge drop in his shooting percentage, Kadri still managed 45 points in 76 games, the second highest point total of his career. With a little bit more luck, Kadri could finish the 2016-17 season with 60+ points, crushing his career high of 50 points.

Next: 4. Nick Bjugstad

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