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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 26, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Rinat Valiev (29) warms up before playing against the Boston Bruins at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports /

Rinat Valiev

It was surprising to see Valiev get called up, considering the lack of experience he has at the professional level. In 54 games with the Marlies, Valiev has 21 points, although this is not bad for a 20-year-old rookie. He has the size to be an effective player and could challenge for a spot next season. But considering his age and lack of experience, it would not hurt to have him spend more time in the AHL.

Valiev will have to show whether or not he can handle big minutes at the NHL level, since he has yet to play more than 15 minutes in a single game. In a way Babcock is not throwing this young player out in a situation he is not ready for. Eventually though, he will have to be ready for the day he will asked to do more and it could be sooner rather than later. He will get that opportunity in the playoffs with the Marlies.

Next: Brendan Leipsic

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