Heading into his first full season in a Maple Leafs jersey last year, many questions surrounded forward Joffrey Lupul.
Could Lupul regain his 2005-06 form that saw him score 28 goals in 81 games?
Would he be able to handle the grind of a full season, after playing only 77 games over two sesaons thanks to back surgery and a subsequent blood disorder?
Would the Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta native be able to handle playing in hockey-mad Toronto?
A resounding "yes" answered all three questions, among others.
Before a shoulder injury put an early end to his season in March, Lupul averaged more than a point per game. He tallied 25 goals and 42 assists in only 66 games playing along side the Leafs other sniper Phil Kessel.
Now claiming he is back to 100%, Lupul is hopefully in tune with helping get the blue and white back into the playoffs. He is reunited with Randy Carlyle, who was his coach in Anaheim. With his strong work ethic, Lupul is bound to see plenty of ice since Carlyle rewards those who never quit.
Can Lupul put up 30 goals this year? Sure he can. Opposing teams already key into Kessel and with newly-acquired James van Riemsdyk garnering attention as well, the 28-year-old should get his share of scoring chances.
It seems the only factor that can hinder Lupul is what has haunted him since Anaheim him drafted seventh overall in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft: the injury bug. If he can stay away from the infirmary this season, Lupul is on track to have another strong offensive season.
And with their goaltending and defence corps being so inconsistent a year ago, the Leafs will need all what Lupul produces and more.
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