Kovalchuk clearly looks more comfortable on the left side. Expect a bounce back season where he assuredly produces more than 31 goals and 60 points.

Kovalchuk clearly looks more comfortable on the left side. Expect a bounce back season where he assuredly produces more than 31 goals and 60 points.

Bailey scored 11 goals and 28 points last season but is behind John Tavares and Frans Nielsen in the team's depth chart. The former 9th overall pick still holds the potential to break out but lacks and playing time, and overall consistency throughout his career, to attain such a goal.

Keep in mind that Scott may only qualify at defense this season after splitting time last year.

Kane missing part of training camp and only a handful of exhibition games seems much better than all of training camp. Expect him to get going earlier in the year, and draft accordingly.

Kane missing part of training camp and only a handful of exhibition games seems much better than all of training camp. Expect him to get going earlier in the year, and draft accordingly.

If the Jets believe Zach Bogosian can produce offensively, they will need to give him an appropriate amount of playing time. Moving Byfuglien creates top-pairing minutes, which in theory could be filled by the fourth-year player.

Selanne claimed he would return to the NHL should he feel healthy enough. He must be healthy enough, so draft accordingly.

Siemens will need to fight an uphill battle against eight NHL-ready defensemen. Even if he does make the roster, don't expect much offense from the rugged, WHL defender.

Pavelski should be one of the biggest beneficiaries of Heatley and Setoguchi departing. The Wisconsin native posted career highs in assists (46) and points (66) last season.

As predicted, look for Havlat to skate alongside the Clowe-Couture duo. The injury-prone winger should see an up-tick in production as his linemates are a certain upgrade over Kyle Brodziak and company.

Back when the Sharks traded for Burns we argued his lack of value could derive from not playing top-pairing minutes. While we remain highly bullish on the talented Burns, his value will not exponentially rise until he receives those minutes as he essentially upgrades Jason Demers.

Reports out of Columbus indicate Johansen will lead the third line as the Blue Jackets attempt to roll three scoring lines out next season. The dynamic center impressed at the recent Traverse City Prospects Tournament and should be the focus of training camp.

The 2011 first overall pick sounds eager to make the team out of camp but will need to outplay veterans like Gilbert Brule and Eric Belanger in the process. Training camp should be a litmus test for his work ethic and determination.

Eager should have another Eager-like season, agitating and fighting by trade. The 27-year-old has averaged 120 PIM or more over the last three seasons.
Erixon will compete with Michael Del Zotto, Pavel Valentenko and others for a spot on the opening night roster. Following a strong showing at this week's Rookie Tournament, Erixon certainly did not hurt his chances.

Doesn't sound like Sid will take part in on-ice activities any time soon.

With an improved supporting cast, Myers should be preparing for a career year. Look for his current average of 11 goals and 43 points to be his absolute floor.

Already bad news for the often-injured Markov. Every season it seems like his previous season's injuries make him a value pick but Markov has not played a full season in almost three years now. Draft knowing he will likely miss substantial amounts of playing time.

Connolly once again struggled to stay healthy last season, ending the year in the Sabres' doghouse. Playing between Kessel and Lupul should help improve on his lower totals of last season -- 13 G, 42 P. As usual, the trick to Connolly succeeding is staying healthy.
Certainly sounds like Mueller is on track to return to the lineup during the preseason. If you had him on your cheat sheet, keep him where he is as he looks "fine" on the ice. Expect further updates as they are reported.
