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Todd Cordell
Cale Makar.
I generally try not to pick 'rookies' but I'm going to make an exception since Makar has already played, and excelled, in NHL games.
Makar jumped into the Avalanche lineup straight out of college and appeared in 10 games against a pair of Western Conference contenders in Calgary and San Jose.
He did not look remotely overwhelmed. He moved the puck effectively, had some nice rushes up ice, was an active shooter, picked up six points in 10 games, and recorded scoring chances at a higher rate than all but Roman Josi, Morgan Rielly, Tyson Barrie and Tyler Myers.
With a taste of game action at the highest level under his belt, Makar knows what to expect heading into this season. He's in a great situation individually, too, as he should get all the minutes he can handle at even-strength and is expected to take Barrie's old spot on the top power play.
I think Makar has the talent, and supporting cast, to make a lot of noise this season.
James Tanner
The breakout player of the Central Division will be Robert Thomas. He's going to get a bigger role, and should develop into a very good player. After winning the Cup in a smaller role, it seems like he's in line for better linemates and more PP time. He's got star potential, but is coming off an injury.
The other one is Miro Heiskanen, but the very existence of John Klingberg might prevent him from putting up big numbers, since he'll be a #2 PP guy, and his coach is likely to pair him Polak or something equally stupid, but he's still someone to watch as his talent level is really high.
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