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Toronto Maple Leafs: Free Agents the Leafs Should be Looking to Attract

ByMatthew Rodrigopulle|
Feb 23, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs center Zach Hyman (11) talks to center Auston Matthews (34) as center William Nylander (29) and defenseman Roman Polak (46) look on against the New York Rangers at Air Canada Centre. The Rangers beat the Maple Leafs 2-1 in the shootout. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 23, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs center Zach Hyman (11) talks to center Auston Matthews (34) as center William Nylander (29) and defenseman Roman Polak (46) look on against the New York Rangers at Air Canada Centre. The Rangers beat the Maple Leafs 2-1 in the shootout. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
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Dec 16, 2016; Raleigh, NC, USA; Washington Capitals defensemen Karl Alzner (27) passes the puck before the game against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. The Washington Capitals defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 4-3 in the shoot out. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 16, 2016; Raleigh, NC, USA; Washington Capitals defensemen Karl Alzner (27) passes the puck before the game against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. The Washington Capitals defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 4-3 in the shoot out. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

Karl Alzner, D, Washington Capitals

Although Kevin Shattenkirk leads the list of top free agent defenceman this year, if the Leafs are unable to snag him, another defenceman from the Capitals could still be available.

Alzner may not have the same top pairing capabilities as Shattenkirk, but he definitely can slot in anywhere in the top 4.

Alzner may only have put up 12 points in 62 games this season, but he averages about 20:10 time on ice per game with a +/- of 26. Keep in mind here that Washington’s defensive core is quite stacked. Alzner maintains these numbers while slotting in behind John Carlson and Matt Niskanen. Impressive.

Alzner can be a great addition to the Leafs if need be. He’s also only 28, like Shattenkirk. If the Leafs can afford taking a bite on him for two to three years, it could pay off well.

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