TOP KNIGHTS

By LONDON FREE PRESS STAFF

FORWARDS

Phil Varone: Gets the chances of a 50-goal guy. Time to start burying half of them. Staying healthy all season would help immensely, too.

Jared Knight: Less than last year’s 36 goals is unacceptable. The Knights are banking on 40-plus, maybe even a nifty 50.

Daniel Erlich: Offensive contributions used to be icing. Now, they have to be part of the cake’s foundation.

Vladislav Namestnikov: The Hunters didn’t bring in the shifty Russian as window dressing. There have been flashes in camp, but star power is expected.

Seth Griffith: Showed at the end of last year he’s ready for OHL success. Time to deliver all season long.

DEFENCE

Scott Harrington: Solid sophomore D-man has to anchor blueline while chasing top NHL pick status. Plenty of pressure.

Jarred Tinordi: Habs first rounder doesn’t have to be John Carlson, but for contending Knights, he has to be close.

Reid McNeill: Big 3 Harrington, Tinordi and Michael D’Orazio will need some help. Penguins pick’s play could turn Knights from good to great.

GOALIES

Michael Houser: Not drafted by OHL or NHL. Long shot for U.S. world junior team. Lots to prove.

Igor Bobkov: Massive Russian goalie arrived with hype and transfer headache. Can he live up to huge expectations?