Leafs could be targeting three veteran UFA's before training camp
As per an NHL insider, the Leafs are strongly considering left-wingers prior to the start of training camp, and have three veterans on their radar.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are a bit thin on left-wing depth right now, but there's some hope that things could turn around with the right moves. If the team signs Nick Robertson and he bounces back and Easton Cowan lands a spot on the roster, the left-wing position could surprise everyone. But putting all the pressure on these two right now could be a gamble the team isn't willing to take.
According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the Leafs are on the lookout for help on the left-wing. Here are three players they should seriously think about adding.
Max Pacioretty could be a great pick for the Leafs. Even though he's had some injury troubles recently, he's still got the skills to make a big impact. Given his age and injury history, Pacioretty might come at a bargain price, making him a low-risk, high-reward option. He could thrive playing with stars like Auston Matthews or John Tavares, using his ability to find open spaces and score goals.
While things didn't go perfectly during his time with the Washington Capitals, Max Pacioretty has proven that when he's healthy, he's still a force. If the Leafs can get him for around $1 million, it would be a steal. And if it doesn't work out, they could easily trade or waive him.
Being the 22nd overall pick at the 2007 NHL draft by the Montreal Canadiens, Max Pacioretty only suited up in 47 games last season, scoring just four goals and 19 assists for 23 points. He is definitely looking to bounce back.
Nick Cousins is another player who could add some value to the Leafs. He won the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers last year and brings the kind of grit and determination Toronto could use, especially in a bottom-six role. He's not a top-line player, but he can be really irritating for opponents and scores timely goals, which makes him a solid choice. Cousins would add some much-needed depth and toughness without being a liability on the ice.
Since he's originally from Belleville, Ontario, Toronto might be an appealing destination for Nick Cousins. His experience and tenacity would be a great fit, particularly for a checking role on the fourth line.
Nick Cousins was drafted in the third round by the Philadelphia Flyers back in 2011, and last season with the Florida Panthers, he managed to play in 69 games, scoring seven goals and adding eight assists for 15 points. His most important stat, however, was the Stanley Cup that he was able to add to his name.
James van Riemsdyk
Bringing back James van Riemsdyk could be both a sentimental and smart move for the Leafs. Although his production has dipped in recent years, his history with Toronto and ability to score from right in the slot would make him a valuable asset, especially on the power play. His presence in front of the net could free up John Tavares for other roles, potentially boosting the team's power play effectiveness.
At 35, James van Riemsdyk is nearing the end of his career, which might motivate him to give it his all in what could be his last shot at a Stanley Cup. His return to Toronto would not only strengthen the team's depth but also excite the fans, who likely have his jersey covered up in dust somewhere in their closets.
James van Riemsdyk was a second-overall pick by the Philadelphia Flyers in 2007, and played in 71 games with the Boston Bruins last season, scoring 11 goals and adding 27 assists.
The Maple Leafs definitely have some interesting options to help their left wing. Whether they go for Max Pacioretty's scoring touch, Nick Cousins' grit, or James van Riemsdyk's familiarity and net-front presence, any of these players could give the team the boost they need for a deep playoff run.
Source: HockeyDB
James van Riemsdyk Stats
Source: NHL.com
Nick Cousins Stats
Source: Hockey-Reference
Max Pacioretty Stats
| POLL | ||
Which one of these three UFA's should the Leafs target? | ||
| Max Pacioretty | 55 | 15.2 % |
| Nick Cousins | 99 | 27.3 % |
| James vsn Riemsdyk | 70 | 19.3 % |
| None | 138 | 38.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
