With the NHL playoffs less than a week away, "On the Fly," theScore's NHL weekly roundtable series, looks at four postseason newcomers we're excited to watch.
David Pastrnak
McLaren: 2016-17 has been Pastrnak's coming-out party, and there's a sense the 20-year-old is just getting started.
In his first full NHL season, the Czech winger has given the Boston Bruins near point-per-game production, with 34 goals and 36 assists in 74 games. Impressive numbers to be sure, but the manner in which he's done it suggests a further breakout could be coming.
Pastrnak possesses game-breaking ability unseen in Boston since Tyler Seguin, and has demonstrated an ability to put the game on his stick, as evidenced by team-leading two overtime winners.
That he plays in a Bruins top six comprised of savvy veterans who've made numerous playoff treks should boost not only his confidence but his production, as the likes of David Krejci, Patrice Bergeron, and Brad Marchand have a knack for setting the table.
Pastrnak has had a formidable regular season, but don't be surprised if he makes an even better first playoff impression.
Connor McDavid
(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)
Gold-Smith: It's hard enough to look away when McDavid is on the ice in the regular season. Good luck doing it in the playoffs.
The NHL's points leader will soon get his first taste of postseason action, and there's no doubt it'll be appointment viewing.
McDavid has had no trouble adjusting to the speed of the league as a 20-year-old in his first full NHL campaign, and while the playoffs require another gear, it shouldn't take the youngest captain in league history much time to make an impact.
He's already one of the NHL's most dynamic playmakers as well as one of its most dangerous scorers, and he has a realistic shot at hitting the 100-point plateau before the regular season wraps up.
McDavid will surely collect some individual accolades as the probable Art Ross Trophy winner and a likely nominee for the Hart, but his shifts will be can't-miss entertainment come playoff time with the ultimate team prize in his sights.
Jordan Eberle
O'Leary: Doubling up on the playoff-bound Edmonton Oilers, it's hard not to feel good for Eberle.
With 505 NHL games and numerous rebuilds under his belt, Eberle will appear in the postseason for the first time in his career, and while he's shifted to more of a depth role since the arrival of No. 97, keep an eye on the Oilers veteran.
If you're familiar with his world juniors resume, or have seen his first NHL goal, you're well aware of Eberle's reputation for enjoying the big moments. Unfortunately for him, the gap between opportunities to shine on the sport's grandest stages has dragged on longer than he probably expected, but now's his chance. Expect him to take advantage.
Alexander Wennberg
(Photo courtesy: Action Images)
Wilkins: It's not often a team trades its top center, but the Columbus Blue Jackets cashed in on Ryan Johansen, knowing they had their next middle man around the corner in Wennberg.
The 22-year-old stepped into the top job last season after Johansen was dealt to the Nashville Predators, a trade that brought defenseman Seth Jones to Columbus. Not only did the deal strengthen the team's back end, but Wennberg has played a pivotal role down the middle with fellow center Brandon Dubinsky.
Wennberg leads the Blue Jackets with 45 assists this season. His production has played a big part in the team locking down just its third-ever playoff berth. The dynamic center will soon have the chance to showcase his skill on a bigger stage when he makes his postseason debut.
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