Insider Reveals Why Matt Murray Hasn't Been Bought Out Yet

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Tom Banks
July 19, 2023 (6:08 PM)

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The 2022-23 Toronto Maple Leafs were a tale of two teams, as they dominated the regular season once again before failing in the playoffs, with goaltending being a problem they believed they had fixed when they landed two-time Cup Champion Matt Murray.

Unfortunately, along with the rest of the goaltenders, Murray struggled down the stretch, with many believing his time in Toronto had come to an end, but now it has been revealed just why he has yet to be bought out.

What's the hold up?

Reported by TSN Analyst Dave Poulin, the main reason why he is still currently a member of the Maple Leafs is due to the team wanting leverage in negotiations with young goaltender Ilya Samsonov.

While there's a good chance they can get a deal done with Samsonov, having an experienced goaltender under contract for another season is a good play from the team, and once a deal is done, it's likely that Murray will again hit free agency and be seeking another team in 2023-24.

Can he still be effective in the NHL?

In 2022-23, Murray tallied a 14-8 record with a .903 save percentage and a 3.01 GAA, and while his days of being a starter on a Stanley Cup winning roster are likely over, he could be a fantastic backup anywhere around the NHL.

Credit Maple Leafs Daily:
Analyst in Toronto reveals why the Leafs did not buy out Matt Murray during first buyout window