Toronto Maple Leafs: 5 Defencemen Aiming to Feature Next Season

Feb 25, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Martin Marincin (52) skates against the Carolina Hurricanes at the Air Canada Centre. Toronto defeated Carolina 3-1. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 25, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Martin Marincin (52) skates against the Carolina Hurricanes at the Air Canada Centre. Toronto defeated Carolina 3-1. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Toronto Maple Leafs
Feb 18, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Viktor Loov (55) during the pre game warm up against the New York Rangers at the Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

4) Viktor Loov

Contract status: Second season of three-year $2.775 million contract & set to become a RFA next summer

Drafted: 209th overall (seventh round) in 2012, by the Toronto Maple Leafs

NHL career stats (all this season): 4 games / 2 assists / +4 / 10:28 average ice time

Strengths: Loov is a good defender who skates well and has showcased his excellent hockey sense by making the simple and safe play in most situations.

Weaknesses: The 23-year old lacks natural offensive instincts, which will compromise him in the NHL and he also could do with building up his frame and strength.

What he offers Toronto: Despite his low draft status, the Leafs have been high on Loov since day one, with them particularly liking his skating ability. He was unlucky to suffer an injury after being recalled from the Marlies this week. In all, although opportunities have been limited so far, he is a solid defenceman with potential to develop.

Notes: Marked his NHL debut by recording an assist less than five minutes into the game.

Next: Stuart Percy