Leafs coach makes bold claim about rookie forward Pontus Holmberg following his NHL debut
Earlier this week, the Toronto Maple Leafs called up Pontus Holmberg from the AHL's Toronto Marlies after a solid start. While Holmberg only notched 2 assists in 7 games for the Marlies this season, he could easily have been at a point-per-game with the way he's been playing. When asked about Holmberg following the call-up, Keefe had said he liked the idea of a natural centerman coming in.
Fast forward to last night, when Holmberg made his NHL debut. He centered the team's third line, playing between veterans Pierre Engvall and Calle Jarnkrok. Post-game, Keefe was very complimentary of the 23-year-old Swede, stating he feels Holmberg "has a future in this league". Bold words, considering the fact that Holmberg was a 6th round pick. 6th rounders don't often go on to have lengthy careers.
Holmberg did receive some sheltering, as anyone making their NHL debut would, receiving a team low of 10 minutes and 1 second of ice time. During that time, he registered two shots on goal. As you'll recall, over the weekend, Nick Robertson saw his ice time diminish to just 6:32 against the Kings and 8:02 against the Ducks.
After being drafted 156th overall in the 2018 NHL entry draft, Holmberg spent the following four seasons playing in the Swedish Elite League. Last year, during his final year in Sweden, he showed exceptional offensive upside, recording 41 points (11 goals and 30 assists) in 46 games. Those are very strong numbers in Sweden's top men's league.
Given the fact that the Leafs ended a losing streak last night, it feels logical to assume we will see Pontus Holmberg again Saturday night. Whether or not he stays in the lineup long-term, however, is up to him - and, of course, Sheldon Keefe.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 3 | 167 ANSWERS Leafs coach makes bold claim about rookie forward Pontus Holmberg following his NHL debut How many games will Pontus Holmberg play for the Leafs this year? | ||
| Below 10 | 77 | 46.1 % |
| 10-30 | 60 | 35.9 % |
| 31-60 | 21 | 12.6 % |
| More than 60 | 9 | 5.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
