The Toronto Maple Leafs are gearing up for the offseason with a projected $22 million in cap space, despite having 20 players already under contract. The free agent market presents challenges, with many teams having financial flexibility, but several players could still be of interest to the Leafs.
Potential Free Agent Targets:
- Darren Raddysh (RHD, Tampa Bay Lightning): A late-blooming, 30-year-old defenseman from Toronto who could command around $7 million.
- Alex Tuch (RW, Buffalo Sabres): A top-six winger expected to seek a salary in the $10-$11 million range.
- Rasmus Andersson (RHD, Vegas Golden Knights): A defenseman former Leafs GM Brad Treliving pursued multiple times. Acquiring him might necessitate trading Morgan Rielly to accommodate his potential salary increase.
- Jack Roslovic (C/W, Edmonton Oilers): A versatile forward capable of playing multiple positions and moving up and down the lineup. He scored 22 goals in 69 games and will likely seek a raise from his current $1.5 million.
- Jacob Trouba (RHD, Anaheim Ducks): At 32 years old, he averaged nearly 23 minutes per game, contributing 35 points, 149 blocked shots, and 143 hits.
- Connor Murphy (RHD, Edmonton Oilers): Previously linked to the Leafs before the trade deadline, this 33-year-old defenseman doesn’t offer offense but could be an upgrade on the third pairing compared to current options.
Potential General Manager Candidates:
The Maple Leafs are actively searching for a new General Manager, aiming to finalize the decision by the end of April, possibly sooner, despite an initial target of late May.
- Mike Gillis: Served as GM for the Vancouver Canucks from 2008 to 2014 and has been out of team management since.
- Ryan Martin: Currently an assistant GM for the New York Rangers and GM of AHL Hartford. He has also interviewed with the Nashville Predators.
- John Chayka: The former GM of the Arizona Coyotes, known for exploring options while under contract and for unauthorized draft pick testing.
- Scott White: Director of hockey operations for the Dallas Stars and GM of AHL Texas. He has also garnered interest from the Canucks and Predators.
- Evan Gold: Assistant GM for the Boston Bruins.
Other Hockey Department Considerations:
Given that Ryan Martin, Scott White, and Evan Gold have assistant GM experience, the Maple Leafs may consider hiring a Director of Hockey Operations if one of them is selected for the GM role. While a decision on the GM is anticipated soon, discussions are also underway for other positions. Mike Gillis might be considered for a supervisory role rather than the GM position. Mats Sundin is a potential advisory candidate, and Gary Roberts has been mentioned as a possible consultant.
