Everyone knows the Toronto Maple Leafs need to rebuild their blue-line.
In a recent episode of Leafs Morning Take, Elliotte Friedman revealed that “Toronto is going to go out to try to get TWO really good defensemen in the UFA market.” This news, though not entirely unexpected given the team’s defensive needs, underscores their commitment to improvement.
This marks a shift from the past, where the Leafs took a more conservative approach, relying on players like Ilya Lybushkin and Joel Edmundson at the trade deadline.
Friedman hinted that the Leafs are targeting top UFA defensemen such as Nikita Zadorov, Chris Tanev, Brandon Montour, Brett Pesce, and Sean Walker. The prospect of adding these players is exciting and could be game-changing for the team. Friedman concluded, “The Leafs will be a force when it comes to (signing) some of those names,” suggesting a potentially formidable defense that will excite fans.
Friedman also mentioned that the Leafs have shown interest in Carolina Hurricanes’ Brady Skeji and Los Angeles Kings’ Matt Roy as backup plans, as they are set to become unrestricted free agents.
While all seven players would enhance the Leafs’ blue-line from last year, I want to discuss which two would be the best fit for the team next season.
