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Toronto Maple Leafs: 7 Players to Watch as Season Comes to an End

By David Morassutti

Mar 19, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock talks to an official during the third period against the Buffalo Sabres at the Air Canada Centre. Toronto defeated Buffalo 4-1. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 19, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock talks to an official during the third period against the Buffalo Sabres at the Air Canada Centre. Toronto defeated Buffalo 4-1. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Toronto Maple Leafs
Mar 28, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs center Tyler Bozak (42) during the third period at Amalie Arena. Tampa Bay Lightning defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Tyler Bozak

It is interesting to see the narrative surrounding Bozak differ from the start of the season to now. With all the changes the Leafs have gone through this season, he is among the oldest players on the roster, behind Brad Boyes, Brooks Laich, Joffrey Lupul (injured), Milan Michalek and Matt Hunwick (injured). The bizarre part of this is the fact Bozak is only 30 years old. Given the position the NHL is in right now, only time will tell how long he will be able to hold on.

Toronto Maple Leafs
Mar 28, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs center Tyler Bozak (42) passes the puck against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the first period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

The tough part for Bozak has been staying healthy. He has only played a full season twice in his career, once during the 2010-11 season, and last year.

While many will criticize Bozak for the time he was miscast as the team’s No. 1 centre — although not entirely his fault — he actually has value in the current role he plays.

Not only has Bozak been able to chip in both offensively and defensively, he has also been an important leader for the young players, especially with Josh Leivo and Brown playing on his line.

The Leafs could face a tough choice this summer if things go their way and they either win the draft lottery or sign a certain player out of Tampa Bay. Bozak could fetch suitors heading into next season, so it would not be crazy to entertain the thought of him being moved. Or if he continues to play like he has, he could return and be that leader the Leafs need for their young players.

Next: Nazem Kadri

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