Bruins vs. LeafsInteresting line combination's. My gut feeling tells me that Allison will do well with those two players lined up beside him, specifically Tlusty. I know many people are writing Allison off but I don't know. Just something in my head that's making me think he'll have a good showing in the exhibitions. Of course, if he flops I won't at all be surprised either.
...First-round pick Nazem Kadri will centre a third line between Wayne Primeau and newly-acquired winger Colton Orr. Francois Beauchemin will be paired with Jeff Finger on the blueline, with Garnet Exelby playing alongside Ian White. Signed late last season from the NCAA, young forwards Tyler Bozak and Christian Hanson will play together on the second line against Boston.
Jason Allison, the former Leaf who is trying to make a comeback after more than two years away from the game, will be given a chance to centre Toronto's top line between Jiri Tlusty and Nikolai Kulemin. Allison is in camp on a tryout while trying to earn a contract and a spot on the Leafs' roster.
Vesa Toskala will get the start in goal for Toronto, with Joey MacDonald as his back-up. Goalie Jonas Gustavsson continues to recover from a minor heart procedure.
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I'm expecting a good game out of Stalberg, I think he'll be better suited for the NHL game with his size and speed. Not sure how well the line will work out though as they are all rookies (save for Hanson who had a bit of NHL exposure last season).
Kadri was slotted in between two big checking wingers which, if anything else, should help him ease into his first bit of NHL action. I dont' think anyone expects him to light the lamp offensively tonight but just to get use to the pace of the game. Although I expect the lineup to be shuffled by the end of the night.
Should be a fun game to watch after a long summer off. Expecting a few fights with the likes of Deveaux, Orr and Rosehill in the lineup.
