From the Branches: Who’s better than the Leafs kids?

As I write this I’m watching Denis Shapovalov just out-do Jo-Wilfrid Tsonga at the US Open. It’s only late in the second set but this is quite the match. I’m not sure where he’d rank on our Top 25 Under 25 if his skills translated to hockey but he might be giving some of the guys a run for their money.

That said, today is the day we announce our number one pick in the Top 25 Under 25. Who could it possibly be??? Catch up on some links while you ponder this deep mystery.

ICYMI

2017 Top 25 Under 25: Mitch Marner ranks #3 for the second consecutive year - Pension Plan Puppets
Marner ranks just behind William Nylander after breaking out with a 61 point season.

2017 Top 25 Under 25: William Nylander claims #2 in our countdown - Pension Plan Puppets
Our blond phenom finishes second for the second straight year.

Marner vs. Nylander: celebrate, vote, fight - Pension Plan Puppets
We narrowly chose William Nylander over Mitch Marner in our T25U25 list.  Now it’s your turn to choose.

Women’s Hockey Wednesday: Preparing the next generation - Pension Plan Puppets
Finland dominates, the NWHL adds players, and Sophie Shirley maintains her eligibility.

Anything you can do Leafs can do better

Other T25 lists hit their numbers two or three yesterday. Presented without further comment.

Flames Top 25 Under 25: #3 - Matthew Tkachuk - Matchsticks and Gasoline
An outstanding rookie season pushes Tkachuk to #3

Top 25 Under 25, #3: Colin White - Silver Seven
White will begin his rookie pro season after spending two years in the NCAA

Blackhawks Top 25 Under 25 for 2017: Alex DeBrincat ranks No. 3 after dominating juniors - Second City Hockey
No prospect in the Hawks’ system can match DeBrincat’s scoring potential.

Top 25 Under 25: Clayton Keller is ready to score consistently in the NHL at #2 - Five For Howling
With a point-per-game resume spanning his whole hockey career, Clayton Keller is ready to quietly and unexpectedly take the NHL by storm

Top 25 Under 25: Number 2 Jacob Trouba - Arctic Ice Hockey
Not even starting last season on the sidelines can hold Jacob Trouba back.

Other news

Patrick Marleau flies to Toronto, reminds us all he’s no longer a Shark - Fear The Fin
This is nightmare. No matter what you think of the contract, watching Sharks fans freak out is sort of fun. (No I haven’t gotten over the Reimer trade, why do you ask?)

Analyzing Jay McClement and his potential role as Pittsburgh’s 4th line center - PensBurgh
Jay McClement just signed a professional tryout contract for the Pens last Friday. With little fallback at a cheap cost, will this prove to be another genius move by GM Jim Rutherford for the missing fourth-line center spot? Jay. McClement. There are no words.

Bank buys naming rights to ‘Slap Shot’ arena for $720,000 - The Globe and Mail
Twice in two days, a bank buys naming rights to a landmark arena.

Arizona Coyotes’ Shane Doan announces retirement after 21 years | Toronto Star
“Playing in front of you has honestly been one of the greatest experiences of my life,” Doan said in a letter to fans in Phoenix.

Carolina Hurricanes Announce Hurricane Harvey Relief Drive - Canes Country
The Canes are putting together a storm relief drive, and want your help and donations.

CWHL

Thunder add Candice Moxley to coaching staff - Markham Thunder
Markham Thunder have added CWHL pioneer and ex-Buffalo State College (Division III) head coach Candice Moxley as an assistant coach.

Marner and Nylander vs their counterparts - who are you picking?