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NHL Insider Reveals that the Leafs Are Talking With Major Free Agent Defenseman

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Dawson Mckenzie
December 8, 2023  (11:05)
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An NHL insider has just revealed that the Toronto Maple Leafs are in talks with this major free-agent defenseman that could be a solution to their injury problems.

Chris Johnston Reveals the Leafs are in Talks with Ethan Bear

The Toronto Maple Leafs are becoming desperate for reinforcements on the blue line. With 3 of their top-6 defenseman out in Mark Giordano, Timothy Liljegren, and John Klingberg, it has been widely reported that the Leafs are active on the trade market for a defenseman.

Now, TSN's Chris Johnston has revealed that the Leafs are exploring other options to acquire a defenseman as well, which includes exploring the free agency market. Their target? Ethan Bear.

Chris Johnston on Insider Trading says the Capitals are keenly interested in Ethan Bear, they're a team to watch, the Canucks, Leafs, Devils and Penguins have shown interest as well.

Bear is coming off surgery this offseason, which is the primary reason he remains unsigned at this point in the year.

Bear Would Be a Nice Addition to the Leafs Blueline

Unfortunately for the Leafs, they are strapped for cash that they might need to sign a defenseman. With how in-demand defensemen are right now, it's likely Bear will garner a contract that the Leafs currently can't afford.

..Ethan Bear, you are a Leaf?

Wait. Ethan Bear is a UFA? Iiiiiiiiinteresting.

Bear's last contract with the Carolina Hurricanes was a 1-year deal with a $2.2 million AAV. The Leafs would need to cut some costs in order to make a deal work with a slight pay raise.

As seen on Maple Leafs Daily - "Leafs reportedly talking with free agent defenseman"

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