Edmonton Oilers' Big Mistake to Bring Two-Time 20-Goal Scorer Back to His Hometown of Toronto

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Pat Quinn
November 8, 2023 (7:50)

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Connor Brown has not had the best start to his time with the Oilers having zero points in nine games, when many expected his past chemistry with Connor McDavid to have him be productive on the top line.

It has been a struggle for the player so far. Much of that can be attributed to Brown requiring ACL surgery after just four games with the Washington Capitals last season. There is a lot of rust to shake off, but in a Canadian market where the team is expected to win, there is not a lot of time to wait.

Connor Brown's time in Toronto was always good

Connor Brown played three full seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs playing in 82 games in each of them, which is impressive since he has never had a fully healthy season since. Brown was drafted by the Leafs in 2012, and came through the teams system, getting in seven games before becoming a full time player.

In 253 games with the Maple Leafs, Connor Brown had 99 points including 43 goals. The only time Brown played in the playoffs was with Toronto, and he played in 20 games with just five points.

Would Connor Brown be a fit in Toronto like the old days?

There are rumours that Connor Brown could be put on waivers before he plays his tenth game, which would activate his performance bonus of $3.25 million.

The Maple Leafs could use some bottom-six scoring and another forward with penalty killing prowess. Additionally, Brown has chemistry with the top three Leafs young forwards too. He is a battler down low and plays a smart two-way game. It would be nice if he scored more, but that will come once he gets his legs back under him.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are savvy with the salary cap so they could manoeuvre the $3.25 million extra cost if the Oilers put Brown on waivers. It could wind up being a smart move for Toronto.