McLeod was essentially a full-time NHLer in 2022, scoring nine goals with 12 assists (21 points) in 71 games with the Oilers. Entering his age-23 season, McLeod will serve as Edmonton's No.3 centre behind Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl/Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. However, he did see some playing time on the wing in the top-6 down the stretch last year.
Hayton was the No.5 overall pick in 2018 and has 31 points (13G / 18A) in 94 career NHL games, including 24 points (10G / 14A) in 60 games a season ago. With limited competition for minutes down the middle in Arizona, Hayton could be their No.1 option between Clayton Keller and Nick Schmaltz in 2022-23.
McKinnon had been one of the most underpaid players in the NHL for years but will have the highest AAV when the 2024 season starts at $12.6. McKinnon missed 17 games last season but was on pace for 111 points (40G / 71A) over 82 games. He also led the playoffs in goals (13) and won his first Stanley Cup. Overall, 2022 was a great year for Nathan MacKinnon.
