Trades, Waivers, and Rumours: Back-Up Goalie Options for the Toronto Maple Leafs

MONTREAL, QC - SEPTEMBER 23: Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Michael Hutchinson (30) waits for a faceoff during the Toronto Maple Leafs versus the Montreal Canadiens preseason game on September 23, 2019, at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC (Photo by David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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MONTREAL, QC – SEPTEMBER 23: Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Michael Hutchinson (30) waits for a faceoff during the Toronto Maple Leafs versus the Montreal Canadiens preseason game on September 23, 2019, at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC (Photo by David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

With the recent release of Michal Neuvirth, the Maple Leafs’ backup position goes to Michael Hutchinson, right?

Maybe not, as there are several free agent and trade options that may provide more confidence and experience in the backup position than the former Jets and Panthers net minder.

First, for context, Hutchinson is set to ‘replace’ long-time NHL goalie Michal Neuvirth.

Neuvirth, a veteran goaltender with an inconsistent and injury-riddled career, was brought in on a PTO essentially out of the kindness of the organization’s heart, as the Czech goalie gained access to Toronto’s renowned medical and coaching staff. I never really considered Neuvirth to be a true competitor for the backup role, especially after analyzing his struggles in Philadelphia last season.

Onto to candidates for the forever controversial back-up position, starting with Michael Hutchinson himself.

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