Okay, let’s get this out of the way right from the start. Did I write this article just because of the headline? Yes. I saw the quote from Sheldon Keefe and the headline popped into my head, and because I’m no coward I came up with an actual article to go with it.
So last year, Maple Leafs fans enjoyed watching Michael Bunting have a breakout season. After not playing in a full NHL season at any point in his career, Bunting signed with his hometown team for less than $1 million per season. After starting the season in the bottom six, he came out of the gate hot even during the pre-season and earned a spot on the top line.