It goes without saying that this is game one of the preseason, and the lineups aren’t exactly strength vs. strength tonight (in favour of the Leafs), but here are some names/storylines to keep an eye on:
Nikita Grebenkin: The Russian with multiple years of pro experience under his belt — and a championship ring in the KHL — brings a package of size, strength, speed, and intelligence that has impressed Leafs brass in the early stages of training camp. Playing his preferred off-wing as a left shot, how does Grebenkin fare alongside two seasoned, highly-skilled NHL pros, John Tavares and Max Pacioretty, when it comes to the details of his game defensively, his forechecking/puck retrievals, and complementing his linemates offensively?