Toronto Maple Leafs on the Verge of Adding a Player to Their Defense After Exciting Update

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Chris Gerics
November 10, 2024 (8:47 PM)

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Toronto is on the cusp of finally getting one of their free agents on the ice, as Jani Hakanpaa wasn't dressed for the Marlies; a signal he's very close to his debut.

The Toronto Maple Leafs and their fans are waiting with anticipation for Jani Hakanpaa's debut, as he was one of GM Brad Treliving's key acquisitions this summer, even if he was dealing with some nagging knee issues.

So with his debut imminent after a conditioning assignment with the Toronto Marlies, we may not need to wait long before he's suiting up for the Maple Leafs:

As Maple Leafs insider Kyle Cushman notes, Jani Hakanpaa was not dressed for the Marlies against Charlotte. There hasn't been any information regarding a new injury or a setback, so it's assumed that his removal was to prepare him to get ready for his debut; potentially as early as Tuesday against Ottawa.

Jani Hakanpaa's Story Of Perseverance

Signed originally on the first day of free agency, Hakanpaa's contract was technically never a done deal, as questions about his injury history sparked conversation. Both parties settled on a 1-year pact, a great way to give Hakanpaa a chance to restart his career, while also not paying too much for elite defense.

Hakanpaa, who was drafted 104th overall by the St. Louis Blues in 2010, is a towering 6'7 defenseman with elite defensive intelligence and a booming force who likes to throw his weight around. Not typically known for his offense, Hakanpaa can still bring a heavy impact to the Maple Leafs, especially if he does this:

Hakanpaa gives Craig Berube another huge body to put on the ice, and the question of where to put him is a fair one. More than likely, he should be swapped for Simon Benoit, who has taken a step back this season and could use a bit of a mental reset.

It will be exciting to watch Jani Hakanpaa make his debut for Toronto, as fans hope he is another key factor in a hopeful Stanley Cup run. If anything, it's a great story about perseverance and never giving up on your dreams, or yourself.