Toronto Maple Leafs: Full line combination predictions for 2018-19
By Simon Vacca
Forwards: Line Three
Andreas Johnsson-Nazem Kadri-Connor Brown/Kasperi Kapanen
Perhaps what is most telling of the degree to which the Maple Leafs’ roster can — and should — be defined as “depth-ridden” is the fact that Nazem Kadri is set to pilot the team’s third line. Coming off two separate 32-goal seasons, the 27-year-old center is beyond capable of embracing multidimensional roles, as he can tally upwards of 50-to-60 points while shutting down the top units of opposing teams.
Under the watchful eye of Babcock, Kadri’s pest-like nature has been maximized and the ensuing results have been nothing short of outstanding. Talk of immaturity is a thing of the past, in that Kadri’s emergence as a dangerous two-way player has allowed his reputation to be solidified as one of the league’s better second-line centers. That he is now set to front the club’s third line is a testament to the extent of the team’s complexity across three units, as well as a sure sign of the difficulty that will overwhelm the defensive pairings of opponents during the year ahead.
Simply put, the Maple Leafs’ center depth is the equivalent of a three-headed monster. Kadri’s presence on the third line alongside Andreas Johnsson, who is almost definitely ready for a full-time position in the NHL, and one of Connor Brown or Kasperi Kapanen — both of whom have proven to be among the club’s deadliest two-way threats — shall ensure that the Buds marry defensive responsibility with a more elevated offense over the course of 2018-19.