Elliotte Friedman reveals the Leafs have one more trick up their sleeves and it involves a forward
The Toronto Maple Leafs have one more potential spot eyed for them to fill before the start of the upcoming season.
According to Sportsnet Hockey Insider Elliotte Friedman, the Toronto Maple Leafs are still active in adding a player before the start of the season, and Friedman says one area the team is still checking their options in is at left wing.
Toronto faces a question in the pipeline with Nick Robertson still unsigned and reportedly wanting out. There is the potential of Max Domi and Pontus Holmberg as options there, although both could also fight for a role down the middle. Rookies Easton Cowan & Fraser Minten would likely be candidates put are not certain to be penciled in come opening night.
A likely assumption would be the Leafs signing a LW to a PTO as a backup plan as they monitor all their options. One option available could be Max Pacioretty. The 35-year-old is no stranger to Toronto having played 10 seasons for the rival Montreal Canadiens.
Frank Seravalli of 'Daily Faceoff' reported recently that multiple teams remain interested in the veteran Pacioretty, with a decision looming.
Another free agent name for a spot could be former Leaf James Van Riemsdyk, who played six seasons in Toronto and has still shown some life in him with 38 points in 71 games last season for Boston. Matt Martin, who played for the Leafs for two seasons, could be another former returnee with a tryout deal.
The Maple Leafs could attempt to swing a deal, but with $1.275M remaining in cap space (per PuckPedia), Toronto would not be in the mix for taking on a high-priced player without a contract moving out.
Likely, Brad Treliving will be in the bargain hunt for a reliable NHL option at a fair and moderate price.
| POLL | ||
Should the Toronto Maple Leafs make a move for a forward? | ||
| Yes | 252 | 74.6 % |
| No | 86 | 25.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
