Unless at least two or three players are moved, none of these guys have a realistic shot at regular ice time, even on the fourth line. And that's assuming Sundin doesn't come back.
Earl, who is quite possibly as fast as the speed of light, saw nine games in a late-season cameo with the Leafs. He put up just one assist, but his energy and aggressiveness around the net impressed observers. He also showed a very strong chemistry with Dominic Moore.
But even if a few vets are moved, Earl would have to outshine both Mitchell and Williams to get a spot. He's spent two seasons in the AHL and one more shouldn't hurt him, especially since he'll get first-line minutes.
Mitchell hasn't played at the NHL level yet, but he had an outstanding training camp last year, showcasing his size, defensive game and face-off ability. He's played three seasons in the AHL, posting 51 points last year.
This is a player who deserves the chance to show what he can do—but again, he's stuck in a numbers crunch unless a few guys are traded.
Williams, meanwhile, has been pushing for regular playing time for quite a while—he's had several cups of coffee with the big club recently. The right winger scored goals in each of his first three NHL games—which were played in three separate seasons.
In an 18-game stint with Toronto late last season, he potted just two goals, but that was done on seven minutes a game. If he does make the team, this will be Williams' make-or-break season. If he can't display a scoring touch on a consistent basis, the Leafs may decide to part ways with him.
Last week, Cliff Fletcher said that both Mitchell and Williams were in the team's plans, and both were introduced at a press conference announcing a ticket giveaway.
Whether that means they will play this season or at some point in the future, we don't know—what we do know is that Williams has to clear waivers to be sent to the AHL, and there would likely be several claims.
Who should go?
As outlined above, Ponikarovsky would fetch the most return of the players on the bubble, and he carries the biggest salary. He'd go for at least a third-round pick and open up a spot for Williams or Mitchell at the same time.
Moving out one forward won't be enough, though. Next would be Bell
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