In the ever-evolving world of hockey, the Toronto Maple Leafs are stirring up rumors and speculation as training camp approaches. General manager Brad Treliving has been working the phones relentlessly in search of potential deals that could shake up the team’s roster. The latest move involves re-signing Nicholas Robertson to a one-year contract, but Treliving is far from done.
“What’s next for Toronto?” is the burning question on everyone’s mind. Along with discussions surrounding Max Pacioretty, there is also the curious case of Jani Hakanpaa. The defenseman was reportedly signed to a two-year deal worth $1.5 million AAV, but his name has yet to appear on the Leafs roster. Sources close to the team suggest that an official announcement is imminent, indicating Toronto’s intention to solidify the deal.
With Robertson back in the fold, the Maple Leafs find themselves with limited cap space, just over $400K according to PuckPedia. This constraint makes it challenging for Treliving to bring in both Pacioretty and Hakanpaa without making some strategic moves via trades. While Robertson’s return is a positive development, there are whispers that he could still be on the trading block following earlier offseason requests to leave Toronto.
To free up room under the salary cap, Toronto may need to part ways with some of their current players. Forwards David Kampf and Calle Jarnkrok, each earning over $2 million AAV, could potentially be used as trade bait. While their contributions to the team are valuable, sacrifices may need to be made to accommodate Treliving’s plans. Rising prospects like Easton Cowan and Fraser Minten offer promising replacements and could help fill any gaps left by departing players.
In the quest to bring Hakanpaa on board, trading defenseman Timothy Liljegren is a logical step. Both players occupy right-handed spots in the bottom defensive pairings, making Liljegren expendable to create additional cap space, roughly $3 million. However, concerns about Hakanpaa’s injury history may lead Treliving to explore other options, such as moving Conor Timmins in his place.
As the trade rumors swirl and negotiations heat up, one thing is certain – Toronto is not done making moves. With ample opportunities to reshape the roster and navigate the challenges of the salary cap, the Maple Leafs are poised to make significant changes in the days leading up to training camp.
Hockey fans eagerly await the next chapter in Toronto’s offseason saga, as Treliving and the Maple Leafs continue to maneuver through a complex web of trade discussions and roster adjustments. Stay tuned for more updates as the drama unfolds.
(Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images)
