Watch These Players

Scott Burnside: 10 rookies/sophomores to watch this season We all know about John Tavares on Long Island. Watching the No. 1 pick in the June draft will be a given, as will be keeping an eye on the second overall pick, Victor Hedman, in Tampa Bay. But here are some other rookies and sophomores to keep an eye on this season: Steve Mason, G, Columbus Blue Jackets Full value for rookie of the year honors last season, Mason was the main ingredient in Columbus’ first drive to the playoffs. But can he replicate those gaudy numbers in his second NHL season? He’d better. Pierre LeBrun: 10 players with something to prove this season Steve Sullivan, C, Nashville Predators The Timmins Tornado was the comeback story of the year last season after returning in January from a career-threatening back injury that had sidelined him for two years. He put up 32 points (11-21) in 41 games, showing enough spark for the Preds to sign him to a $7.5 million, two-year deal in July. more players in each category…