Young Leafs Defenseman Making Strong Case for NHL Call-Up After Strong Start
Photo credit: Stephen Brashear-USA TODAY Sports
With an impressive run in the AHL to begin the season, defenseman Henry Thrun is quickly making his case for a promotion to the NHL roster.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have started the season with a mediocre 8-7-1 record, dropping their last 2 games in embarrassing fashion, leading to a lot of criticism, which is warranted.
Maple Leafs' Injury Trouble Prominent to Start the Season
The Maple Leafs have dealt with a plethora of injuries to start the year, which has contributed to their struggles. One notable injury that has created a significant hole on their D corps is the loss of veteran defender Chris Tanev.
In Tanev's absence, both Dakota Mermis and Philippe Myers have stepped up to fill the void. Unfortunately, both players have been mediocre at best when playing, and the loss of Tanev has clearly left a gaping hole on the back end.
However, this problem may actually have a solution -- and one that wouldn't cost the Maple Leafs anything, as it's a player already in their possession. Enter: Henry Thrun.
"Henry Thrun has 7 points (3 goals) in 12 AHL games so far this season, and there's absolutely zero reason to not play him over Benoit or Myers tomorrow night."
Henry Thrun's Strong Play has Earned Him a Chance With the Maple Leafs
Thrun has come out strong for the Toronto Marlies to start the season and has really impressed, amassing 7 points in 12 games. His offensive upside is something the Maple Leafs desperately need from their bottom pairing defenders -- something that has been absent this season.
Despite playing in the AHL, Thrun has NHL experience, as the 24 year-old has already played in 119 games for the San Jose Sharks.
While Tanev continues his recovery, this could be the perfect time to reward a player like Thrun for his strong start to the season, and give the Leafs the spark they need on the blueline.
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