NHL preview: Five players poised to have a breakout season in 2017-18
TORONTO — Every year a few NHL players enter training camp with high expectations for a breakthrough season. Here are five players who could step up their game in 2017-18:
1. Sven Andrighetto, Colorado. 2016-17 stats: 46 games, seven goals, 17 assists, 24 points
Andrighetto bounced between Montreal and the minors over the past three seasons, unable to stick with the big club before finally being dealt to Colorado at last year’s trade deadline. The 24-year-old Swiss forward has a chance for more ice time and an increased role on the rebuilding Avalanche, and could be a major contributor to the team offensively. In 83 games with the Canadiens, Andrighetto produced just 11 goals and 33 points, but scored five goals and 16 points in just 19 games with the Avs after the trade. He also contributed 18 goals and 45 points in his final 44 games with AHL St. John’s.
2. Jonathan Drouin, Montreal. 2016-17 stats: 73 games, 21 goals, 32 assists, 53 points