The NHL's ten best breakout candidates and there's one Detroit Red Wings prospect in it

With their unique skill sets, larger roles, and better opportunities, they have the potential to make significant strides. Here's a quick summary of the players who stand out:

1. Logan Cooley - Utah Hockey Club: Aided by his elite skating and linemate chemistry, Cooley should surpass his rookie numbers, moving into a more prominent offensive role.

2. Leo Carlsson - Anaheim Ducks: Despite injuries, Carlsson's smooth puckhandling and playmaking should shine with increased responsibility, positioning him for a major breakout.

3. Jack Quinn - Buffalo Sabres: With Jeff Skinner's departure, Quinn's excellent IQ and offensive instincts place him in a position to elevate his game with top-line and power-play minutes.

4. Adam Fantilli - Columbus Blue Jackets: After injuries slowed his rookie year, Fantilli's athleticism and play-driving ability give him the potential for a significant points increase.

5. Simon Edvinsson - Detroit Red Wings: With a potential top-four defensive role now open, Edvinsson's size, mobility, and two-way play should allow him to break through defensively, though point totals may not explode.

6. Matty Beniers - Seattle Kraken: A stronger role on the Kraken's top line, power play, and a potential statistical bounce-back could result in Beniers exceeding his underwhelming sophomore performance.

7. Connor Bedard - Chicago Blackhawks: Bedard's transcendent talent, now supported by better wingers, should see his point totals leap to 80-plus as he continues to evolve.

8. Pavel Dorofeyev - Vegas Golden Knights: With top-nine roster spots open, Dorofeyev's shot-generating prowess could translate into a breakout offensive year if he improves his defensive game.

9. Juraj Slafkovský - Montreal Canadiens player has always had powerful tools and scoring ability, but his improved playmaking stands out. His underrated vision and east-west passing add versatility to his game. A 60-70-point season is realistic if he continues his second-half form.

10. Brandt Clarke - Los Angeles Kings player is poised for a breakout with the Kings after key right-handed defensemen departures. Known for his smooth puckhandling, creative play, and offensive upside, Clarke could thrive in a top-four role if he carries his AHL success into the NHL.

Each player is primed for a step up, and many could become key contributors to their teams' success this season.

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The NHL's 10 best breakout candidates: Connor Bedard, Juraj Slafkovský, Logan Cooley and more