Bouchard?
he broke out last year...and he's gonna build on that.
but my pick is Mikko Koivu...he has been a beast at both ends so far
True...Bouchard had the best year of those I listed, but I think he's only scratched the surface. 17 goals? He'll be at least doubling that someday soon IMO. Bouchard has the talent to be a 100-point scorer in a season or two if he gets the opportunity.
Some good names listed, I especially like the chances of Semin breaking though and had thought of listing him originally.
Olesz is a little young and keeps battling injuries, I think he may be a year away - out of Horton, Olesz and Weiss however, there is certainly some young talent, and if two of them have breakthrough seasons the club will be battling for the playoffs as long as the veteran talent up front can stay healthy. I just have a gut feeling that Horton and more particularly Weiss are the most ready - Weiss has done his apprenticeship, and now it's time to live up to his capabilities. He's already gaining a reputation for scoring clutch goals, he just needs a little more consistency.
Higgins had 23 goals last year - he's going to have to have quite a sophomore season to "break through" after that rookie performance. I suppose if he scores 40+, but I'm not expecting that this season.
Pominville certainly made his presence felt last season, especially in the playoffs - that was certainly his "coming out" party. Is he going to significantly build on his 26-goal pace as an NHL rookie last season? I'd be surprised if he topped 26 goals this season.