Jake Muzzin’s journey to becoming a beloved defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs is a story of grit, resilience, and undeniable leadership. Born in Woodstock, Ontario, Muzzin’s path to the NHL wasn’t smooth. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the fifth round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, he didn’t sign with them. When he re-entered the 2009 NHL Draft, the NHL passed on him.
Related: NHL Rumors: Golden Knights, Oilers, Penguins, Maple Leafs
The Nashville Predators invited Muzzin to training camp in 2009, but they cut him well before the season began. It took him a long time to find his way to the NHL, honing his skills in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Soo Greyhounds before making his professional debut with the Los Angeles Kings’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Manchester Monarchs.
Muzzin Finally Gets His NHL Break
Muzzin’s NHL career began to take shape during the 2012-13 season, where his combination of size, toughness, and two-way play made him a standout player for the Kings. He quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with, using his 6-foot-3 frame to his advantage in physical battles along the boards and in front of the net. Muzzin’s breakout moment came during the 2013-14 season when he played a pivotal role in the Kings’ Stanley Cup victory, showcasing his ability to perform under the pressure of the playoffs.
(Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)
With a reputation as a steady two-way defenseman, Muzzin continued to thrive with the Kings, enjoying several productive seasons, including a career-high 42 points in 2017-18. However, by 2019, the Kings were transitioning to a rebuild, and the Maple Leafs saw an opportunity to add a seasoned veteran to bolster their defense.
Muzzin’s Impact on the Maple Leafs
In January 2019, the Maple Leafs acquired Muzzin in a trade that sent their 2019 first-round pick, Carl Grundstrom and Sean Durzi, to Los Angeles. Initially, there was some skepticism about the move. Toronto needed a right-handed defenseman, and Muzzin played on the left. But those concerns quickly scattered as Muzzin proved his worth with his strong defensive play, physical presence, and veteran leadership.
Related: Jake McCabe’s Return Is Crucial to the Maple Leafs Defense
Muzzin’s arrival gave the Maple Leafs the stability they desperately needed on the back end. He took on tough defensive assignments, shutting down top opposing forwards, and brought much-needed grit and toughness to the blue line. His in-your-face style was precisely what the team had been missing, and he was not shy about delivering bone-crushing hits and blocking shots when the team needed it most.
In his first season in Toronto, Muzzin played 53 games, scoring 23 points and establishing himself as one of the team’s top defenders. His ability to step up in critical moments, especially in playoff situations, became invaluable. During the pandemic-shortened playoff series, Muzzin’s absence due to injury was a significant factor in the team’s struggles. The team played better when Muzzin was on the ice. When he was not, they got run over.
Muzzin Brought Leadership and Mentorship to the Maple Leafs
Beyond his on-ice contributions, Muzzin’s presence in the locker room was vital to the team’s chemistry. He became a mentor to younger defensemen like Rasmus Sandin and Timothy Liljegren, helping them develop their games. His leadership by example and willingness to mentor the next generation of Maple Leafs defensemen cemented his role as a cornerstone of the team’s blue line.
Muzzin’s playoff performances were critical to the Maple Leafs’ success. His experience as a Stanley Cup champion gave him the pedigree that the team needed. In the 2021 playoffs, he averaged over 22 minutes per game, registering 25 hits and 16 blocked shots over seven games. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations underscored his value to the team.
The Challenges of Injuries and the Maple Leafs Salary Cap Concerns
As Muzzin aged, the wear and tear of his physical game began to take its toll. In the 2022-23 season, injuries started to limit his effectiveness. The most concerning issue was his battle with concussions, which caused him to miss 35 games that season. Despite his efforts to return to form, Muzzin’s body struggled to keep up with the rigors of the NHL.
Related: Maple Leafs Commentary: Trading Jake Muzzin, Why? and How?
Muzzin’s contract also became a talking point for Maple Leafs fans and perhaps even the team’s front office. In 2020, the organization signed him to a four-year, $22.5 million extension. However, as injuries limited his on-ice value, Muzzin’s $5.625 million cap hit became a burden for a team always pressed for salary cap space. There were discussions about whether to trade him or move his contract, but Muzzin’s leadership and contributions made any such decision difficult.
Muzzin Has Had a Lasting Legacy with the Maple Leafs
Though his on-ice contributions have waned due to injury, Muzzin has remained an integral part of the Maple Leafs organization. After a spinal injury in 2022 led to his placement on long-term injured reserve, Muzzin transitioned to a new role in the front office as a professional scout in 2023. There, he continues to work with the team in various capacities, staying connected to his teammates and offering mentorship and guidance to younger players. Even off the ice, his presence speaks to the respect he’s earned throughout his career.
Muzzin’s time with the Maple Leafs might be over as a player, but he left a legacy of toughness, leadership, and reliability. He was a stalwart on the blue line, a playoff performer, and a mentor to many. As Muzzin transitions to the next phase of his hockey career, fans and teammates will fondly remember his contributions to the Maple Leafs.
