As the calendar flips to September, the excitement for the upcoming NHL season continues to build. Preseason games are just around the corner, providing teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs with the perfect opportunity to evaluate their talent before the regular season kicks off. This is a time for players to showcase their skills and leave a lasting impression on management, all while competing for a spot on the roster.
The preseason roster for the Maple Leafs will feature a mix of NHL, AHL, and ECHL players, along with some promising prospects looking to make a name for themselves. Among these players are goaltender Dennis Hildeby and defenseman Topi Niemela. Hildeby, a towering presence at 6-foot-7, had an impressive season with the Toronto Marlies, posting a 2.41 GAA and a .913 save percentage in 41 games. His stellar performance has not gone unnoticed, as he aims to solidify his place in the organization.
“I was inconsistent last season and I’m ready to improve,” Hildeby said of his performance. “I know I have what it takes to be a top goaltender in this league, and I’m determined to prove it this preseason.”
Despite some limited NHL experience, Hildeby is eager to showcase his skills and earn a more prominent role with the Maple Leafs. With a strong work ethic and a competitive mindset, he is poised to make a lasting impact during the preseason games.
Another player to keep an eye on is Topi Niemela, a skilled defenseman from Finland. Niemela, who was drafted by the Leafs in 2020, has shown steady progress in his development over the past few years. After a successful season with the Marlies, where he finished sixth in scoring among defensemen, Niemela is looking to build on that success and contribute even more this season.
“I’m excited to continue my development with the Maple Leafs organization,” Niemela said. “I’ve worked hard to get to this point, and I’m ready to take my game to the next level.”
With a strong showing in the preseason, Niemela hopes to prove that he belongs in the NHL and can be a valuable asset to the team moving forward. His experience in both North America and Europe has prepared him for this opportunity, and he is determined to make the most of it.
In addition to Hildeby and Niemela, forward Easton Cowan is another player to watch during the preseason. Cowan, a key contributor for the Marlies in the past, brings a combination of skill and tenacity to the ice. His performance in the upcoming games could be a determining factor in whether he secures a spot on the Maple Leafs roster for the regular season.
As the preseason approaches, excitement is building among players and fans alike. The opportunity to see new faces on the ice and witness the competition for roster spots is a thrilling prospect for all involved. With the Maple Leafs set to kick off their preseason in the coming weeks, the stage is set for a showcase of talent and determination as players look to make their mark and earn their place in the lineup.
Stay tuned for more updates as the preseason gets underway, and be sure to keep an eye on these standout players as they aim to shine for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
(Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports)