|
The Rumor That Could Reshape the Leafs' Defense… |
|
|
|
|
|
The Rumor That Could Reshape the Leafs' Defense
Ek’s Note: i’m posting this great article for my new Leafs writer Jay While I finish up my rumor chart which will be posted in this space by this evening…
The Florida Panthers are basking in the glory of a back-to-back Stanley Cup victory, but for some players, that elation will soon be interrupted by the business of the offseason. The Panthers enter the summer with eight unrestricted free agents on their roster, most notably Sam Bennett and Aaron Ekblad.
While many expect Bennett to re-sign with Florida, it seems increasingly likely that Ekblad will hit the open market. The former first-overall pick is the exact type of coveted, right-shot defenseman that most NHL teams dream of adding, and the Maple Leafs are no different. With a renewed focus on defensive structure and a need for more offense from the back end, Ekblad appears to be a perfect fit in Toronto.
For many, the idea of Ekblad in blue and white may seem like a pipe dream. However, according to Frank Seravalli, that dream might have a path to reality. On The Daily Faceoff Live, Seravalli shared, “I think everyone has spent a lot of time wondering what Aaron Ekblad would look like in a Toronto Maple Leafs uniform.”
The suggestion that the Leafs would once again look to make a significant addition to their blue line should come as no surprise. Management has shown a recent commitment to acquiring players with a winning pedigree, and Ekblad certainly fits that mold.
With Ekblad, the Leafs could add his offensive punch while offering him more time on the power play than he has received recently. He also brings a strong, punishing physical style and a champion's mindset that many feel the Leafs' locker room lacks. His experience and talent are a perfect match for Toronto's needs, but can they make the money work?
Any scenario where the Leafs acquire Ekblad would almost certainly require moving their longest-serving player, Morgan Rielly. Rumors have swirled that the Leafs have already explored moving the veteran defender, and their reported interest in Ekblad suggests the front office believes this is a real possibility.
With free agency less than a week away, things are about to get crazy across
the league.
Join the Discussion:
»