4 Big Swings The Maple Leafs Could Take In Free Agency

The Toronto Maple Leafs, like every other NHL team, are gearing up for the start of NHL free agency on Wednesday. But unlike many other NHL teams, reports suggest the Maple Leafs are looking to make big swings.

“There are some bigger swings we’ll take and look at some things,” said new general manager John Chayka. “There are some players we like. There are some needs we have. We will be aggressive, but we will also make sure we are not doing anything to hurt the future.”

So who exactly are the Maple Leafs looking at? Let’s take a guess.

Patrick Kane

Patrick Kane is likely to test free agency. The Detroit Red Wings would like to bring him back, but who can blame Kane if he opts out of the tire fire that seems to be Detroit these days?

Your first hint that he might be eyeing Toronto? “Patrick Kane texted me,” said the newest Leaf, Gavin McKenna. He added, “He’s my idol, so that was cool.”

This would be a great mentor situation for Toronto. Kane will come in relatively cheap, likely signing a bonus-heavy contract. He can play on a line with McKenna, and maybe even Auston Matthews. That would leave a strong second line for Toronto.

This isn’t a slam dunk. There are “whispers” he could be eyeing Buffalo as well.

Sergei Bobrovsky

Now that the Florida Panthers are adding Jacob Markstrom, it appears Sergei Bobrovsky is headed to free agency. The Maple Leafs have been listed among the teams (Edmonton and LA the others) who might have interest.

Given that the Maple Leafs traded Joseph Woll, and given that Anthony Stolarz seems to have proven he’s good for no more than 30 games a season, Bobrovsky could be a fit. Stolarz and Bobrovsky won a Stanley Cup together in Florida.

Chayka noted when asked about whether they’ll be in the market for a netminder, “But it is a key position. If there is a chance to make it better, like any position, we will do that.”

Boone Jenner

Boone Jenner, 33, is also heading to the UFA market. He’s not what he once was, but there’s a player there who has figured out how to be productive even if his foot speed is an issue. He’s tough to play against, has a solid two-way game, and wins faceoffs.

It’s tough to predict what Jenner will be worth on the open market. There could be a great demand for him, but also reluctance if he’s looking for a high AAV or term. The Blue Jackets are hoping to keep him, and given the way things have gone for that club of late, they could use some good news.

Mason Marchment

Pierre LeBrun reports that the Leafs might be among the suitors for another Blue Jackets player, Mason Marchment. If he hits the market, which is expected, the Maple Leafs are lurking.

NHL insider Chris Johnston notes, “He makes a lot of sense for where the Leafs are at. He is a big guy who can play physically, get in on the forecheck, and be a middle-six type of winger. I do think the Leafs have a need for that type of skill set.”

Pierre LeBrun adds that there is a pretty robust market developing for Marchment if he goes to market. He could get expensive, so the Leafs should be careful here.