Elliotte Friedman Drops Key Update on Leafs Standout Forward's New Contract
NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman has given a crucial update regarding a potential contract extension regarding one of their underrated free agent signings.
The Toronto Maple Leafs went for a completely different look this offseason. Adding some big defensive pieces in addition to bringing in consistent goaltending, things signaled a big shift in the land of blue and white.
Their signings have been as advertised, with Chris Tanev being the defensive beast they've been searching for, Oliver Ekman-Larsson has brought a new edge and veteran leadership, and Anthony Stolarz has been a savior between the pipes.
There's one signee however who tends to go under the radar, and the team has been so impressed they're looking to keep him around. According to NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman, it wont take too long either.
Steven Lorentz Has Quietly Made A Big Impact
Signed originally on a PTO during training camp after coming off a Stanley Cup win with the Florida Panthers, Lorentz was added to the full-time roster in order to add some fourth-line depth and help Toronto's defense.
But it's been above and beyond what anyone has expected. Not only has Lorentz done his duty as a defensively sound, gritty, relentless engine of a player has earned not only the respect of Craig Berube, but endeared himself to fans as well.
The biggest surprise however is his offensive production this season. With four goals and four assists, it may not jump off the page but he's already eclipsed last season's point total in goals alone, and is on pace to have one of the best offensive seasons in his career.
Throwing 109 hits certainly helps, but here's the greatest part of all:
Lorentz has done it without taking a single penalty.
That's right. 41 games, over 430 minutes of ice time, not one infraction. It's an incredible feat of discipline that shows not only does he have the skills on the ice, but the IQ and awareness to make sure he's safely but effectively defending.
He only makes $775,000 with his one year deal, but with how he's played it wouldn't be surprising to see him get a deal similar to what Philippe Myers ended up receiving earlier in the season at a two-year deal in the ballpark of $1.5-1.7M.
