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Jay on Leafs: The Search for the Leafs' Next Top Forward |
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Good morning hockey world. Today’s morning skate article comes from our great Maple Leafs’ writer Jay Tuup. I am working the phones and I will put my rumor article pup around noon. I’m also working on a Flyers article, but for you early risers, here is the latest on Toronto….
Second Chances & Smart Spending: The Search for the Leafs' Next Top Forward
The departure of Mitch Marner has left a gaping hole in the Toronto Maple Leafs' top-six forward group. While the addition of the pass-first Matias Maccelli should help generate some offense, the Leafs will need to get creative to round out their top forwards. Despite the fan base's high hopes, it is incredibly unlikely the Leafs are in the market for top-tier talent. Instead, they’ll likely need to sift through the league’s clearance section for a solution.
With the top free agents off the board, the Leafs have no choice but to get creative. Over the next few days, we will take a look at four potential fits for the Leafs' top six as they head into next season.
Jared McCann
Recent reports indicate the Seattle Kraken are considering moving on from McCann and the two years remaining on his contract. Bringing in McCann could undo one of the biggest errors of the previous regime by adding the secondary scorer the Leafs desperately need. Despite being acquired by Toronto previously, he never played a game for the franchise.
McCann immediately made the former management look foolish, scoring 118 goals in 315 games in Seattle. The player the Leafs opted to protect instead, Justin Holl, provided one more disappointing season. McCann would bring cost certainty to the Leafs and the versatility to play all three forward positions, including center. He also possesses the ability to kill penalties, a skill lacking in Toronto.
However, McCann is the least likely player on this list, as the cost of acquiring him is likely outside of the Leafs' comfort zone.
The next candidate might be the player with the highest upside and the lowest acquisition cost, but he comes with a unique set of risks. This player opted against playing in the NHL last season, choosing to return to Russia after falling on tough times in 2023-24.
Evgeny Kuznetsov
After a season away from the NHL, Kuznetsov has decided to attempt a comeback. At 33 years old, he could still have some gas left in the tank. A natural passer and center, Kuznetsov could find perfect chemistry with William Nylander, complementing the Swede's speed and skating.
According to his representatives, Kuznetsov's next NHL contract will be at a reduced rate from his previous deal. It's projected that his contract will come with a reasonable cap hit, likely on a one-year term, making it a low-risk situation for the team. Kuznetsov could be the perfect spark the Leafs need to add offense, and his Stanley Cup experience would be a great addition to the locker room.
Check back tomorrow for the final two candidates to round out the Leafs' top six.
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