Some minor Leafs news, the preseason schedule, and a Jimmy Vesey update in the Wednesday links.
Toronto Maple Leafs hire scout Patrick Charbonneau (MLHS)
The Toronto Maple Leafs have made an addition to their scouting staff, hiring former Rimouski Oceanic Assistant GM, Sherbrooke Phoenix GM and QMJHL Director of Central Scouting, Patrick Charbonneau.
Top 25 Under 25: Carl Grundström debuts at No. 23 (PPP)
This season will be a real test for Grundström. He signed with the reigning champion, Frolunda, after MODO’s relegation. With the champs, he’ll be playing with better players. He’ll also be a year older and will likely take on a larger role. On the other hand, Grundström will have more competition for ice time and powerplay time. If he rises to the occasion, he will be poised to make a large jump up in next year’s T25U25 rankings.
Sources: Bruins (and Leafs) not a favourite to land free agent Jimmy Vesey (CSNNE)
According to one of those sources, however, Vesey’s top three preferred spots are currently the Chicago Blackhawks, the New York Rangers and the New Jersey Devils. Perhaps most surprising of all, though, is that the Bruins, Buffalo Sabres and Toronto Maple Leafs have fallen back in the Vesey pack. All three appeared to be frontrunners for most of the process, given their strong ties to last season’s Hobey Baker winner.
Mailbag: Brendan Shanahan (Players Tribune)
I sometimes see fans who question certain signings or the addition of certain players who maybe don’t measure up based on some metrics. And I think what they overlook is that it’s not necessarily the superstar on the team that imparts the most knowledge to young players who are developing. There are guys who can make a huge, franchise-changing difference with the leadership they provide off the ice.
These are latest 20 former NHL players to join the concussion lawsuit. Includes former Leafs enforcer Andre Deveaux. pic.twitter.com/zGFXhPRuIO
— James Mirtle (@mirtle) August 10, 2016
ICYMI: Another look at the entire 106-game #NHLPreseason schedule. https://t.co/M5wZykvkNN pic.twitter.com/btHSX30tVa
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) August 10, 2016
Leafs pre-season sked: Ott (at Halifax) Sept. 26, @ Buff (Sept. 30), Mtl @ ACC (Oct. 2), Ott (at Saskatoon) Oct. 4, @ Mtl (Oct. 6) ….
— Lance Hornby (@sunhornby) August 10, 2016