Head coach Mike Babcock began the season scrambling to find a replacement on the right side of Auston Matthews’ line as William Nylander awaits a new deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Babcock not only found a temporary replacement but may have found a permanent linemate for the superstar centre.
Tyler Ennis started the season as Matthews’ winger, but after a slow start by the team in their first two games, Babcock made a line swap. This paved the way for Kapanen to get a chance with Matthews.
After five games, Kapanen has put up eight points and is showing his value.