5 players who will breakout in 08/09

5 players who will have breakout seasons in 08/09:

1. Bobby Ryan, ANA
Ryan is sure to be in the top six forward mix in Anaheim this winter. And with Bertuzzi gone and possibly Selanne, the #2 pick in the Crosby draft will be heavily relied on to contribute to the Ducks offense. He only scored 10 points in 23 games last season, but he was just getting his feet wet, and played on three different lines. Expect Ryan to have his breakthrough season in 08/09, especially if he plays with Getzlaf.
2. Mathieu Garon, EDM
I really think Garon is about to have a great season coming up. He played solidly in goal down the stretch last year before his injury, and has finally found his home in Edmonton. He’s had the ‘potential tag’ for what seems like forever, and will get a chance to prove himself as the starter for the Oilers this winter. Look for Garon to be a key piece to Edmonton’s puzzle this season.
3. Mikko Koivu, MIN
Sticking with the theme out west, this is the year for Koivu to emerge as a star in Minnesota. He’s been inching towards stardom with some stellar stretches over the last couple years, but he’s ready to do it full-time now. He’ll be a much more important ingredient to the Wild’s offense this year with the departures of Demitra and Rolston. I’ll even go as far as saying he could approach the 90-100 point mark this season. He’s got that much potential… remember, he was the 6th overall selection in the 2001 draft.
4. Joe Corvo, CAR
I’m looking for Corvo to produce huge numbers from the blue line this year. He was very productive with the ‘Canes late last year after coming over from Ottawa. He scored seven goals (21 points total) in 23 games with Carolina; and with Joni Pitkanen by his side on the man advantage, Corvo’s set to have a career year in the 08/09 campaign.
5. David Krejci, BOS
He has the potential to put up solid offensive numbers in Beantown this season. In his rookie season, Krejci scored just six goals in 56 games. If he doesn’t put up the numbers right away this winter, look for him to become a key two-way forward for Boston this season. I really this kid and his potential…

Others to watch:
Colby Armstrong, ATL
Nick Foligno, OTT
Tyler Kennedy, PIT
Antti Pihlstrom, NSH
Devin Setoguchi, SJ

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