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Toronto Maple Leafs: 3 Players to Watch in First Preseason Game

By David Morassutti

Mar 29, 2016; Sunrise, FL, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs right wing Michael Grabner (40) celebrates with defenseman Frank Corrado (20) and right wing Connor Brown (16) after scoring a goal against the Florida Panthers in the first period at BB&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 29, 2016; Sunrise, FL, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs right wing Michael Grabner (40) celebrates with defenseman Frank Corrado (20) and right wing Connor Brown (16) after scoring a goal against the Florida Panthers in the first period at BB&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Toronto Maple Leafs
Feb 4, 2016; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Columbus Blue Jackets forward Kerby Rychel (21) warms up against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena. The Columbus Blue Jackets won 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports /

Kerby Rychel

If there is a player that has gone under the radar heading into training camp, it is Rychel. Ever since being drafted 19th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets, he has struggled to get his chance in the NHL.

Now Rychel gets that chance with the Leafs, who see something in him and are willing to give him the opportunity he may not have had with Columbus. He is waiver exempt this season, so it helps the Leafs with their roster decisions, especially if he needs more time to develop.

However, it does not help the 21-year old that he has to go up against more established prospects, who have had more time in the Leafs system. Luckily for him, he has at least had playing time in the NHL.

Rychel will likely be going against JVR, Michalek, Komarov, and Josh Leivo for a spot on the left wing. That is going to be tough, but if he were to beat out one of those players, it would be a great story for the young winger.

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