http://www.tsn.ca/crosby-no-1-in-the-top-300-projected-scorers-1.360216
101. Huberdeau 49pts.
106. Bjugstad 48pts.
159. Barkov 42 pts.
So the kids basically take a step back or show no improvement... ya right.
I'd have to think if Bjugs stays healthy he'll hit 60pts. This season. 50-55pts minimum(meaning probably more then this) for Barkov n Hubby if That first line is together all season. IMO all 3 will hit 60pts this year.
I really feel Huberdeau and Bjugstad both reach no less than 55 but no more than 70. TSN have their reason to always underrate us because of our history but I believe in these core guys, who will bring consistent playoff hockey to South Florida. The only window closing for us is Luongo, he's got 3-4 above average years left right? We had 198 goals last year, is it a stretch to say we hit 210 this season? Chicago had 220 last year, won another Cup and that was middle of the pack compared to Tampa's 259 total.
I'm excited for this year, the injection of speed will be a treat to see. Hoping Gallant can catch lightning in a bottle with the special teams this year. Can Crouse, Grimaldi and Smith replace the 17 goals Fleischmann, Kopecky and Upshall combined for last year? Can Pirri and Bjugstad hit 30-35 goals each? Does Ekblad have a sophmore slump? So many questions in a year where most agree, it's playoffs or Tallon is gone.
The core guys will definitely improve but do we have enough to get into playoffs? What you guys think?