Toronto Marlies prospect is making his case to move up to the Big Club
Photo credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images
With the Toronto Maple Leafs experiencing several injuries this year, and potetially selling off pieces at the trade deadline, it could make way for defensemen William Villeneuve of the Toronto Marlies in the AHL to get called cup to the NHL.
Villeneuve has been a steadily improving every year as a pro, and the Maple Leafs could benefit from the added depth.
Can William Villeneuve take the next step in his career?
Michael Coyle of Leafs Nation reported on Villeneuve's performance this year. Villeneuve was drafted in the fourth round of the 2020 NHL Entry Draft from the Saint John's Sea Dogs.
He proved to be an excellent two-way defenseman, and he is continuing that at the pro level.
"Villeneuve’s first three years with the Marlies showed growth, posting seasons of 25, 25 and 40 points, leading the Marlies defencemen in points, while also posting a team high in both assists with 36, and plus-minus, with a rating of plus-17. Through 39 games played this season, Villeneuve has recorded three goals and 15 assists, once again leading all Marlies defencemen in points on the season."-Coyle
The Maple Leafs have had injuries to both Brandon Carlo and now with Chris Tanev out on LTIR, the Leafs need to explore all of their options, and it might be time to give Villeneuve a shot.
Despite the Marlies relying heavily on him to secure a playoff spot, and a solid playoff run following that, the NHL is where Villeneuve wants to be, and he has made a solid case that he belongs in the big leagues.
Villeneuve's fate will be more apparent as we approach the trade deadline following the Olympics.
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| POLL | ||
FEVRIER 14|282 ANSWERS Toronto Marlies prospect is making his case to move up to the Big Club Should William Villeneuve of the Toronto Marlies get a chance at playing with the Toronto Maple Leafs? | ||
| Yes | 261 | 92.6 % |
| No | 21 | 7.4 % |
| List of polls | ||