5 Depth Free Agent Centres the Toronto Maple Leafs Could Target

1. Joe Thornton – 40 years old – C

2019-20 stats – 70 GP – 7 G – 24 A – 31 PTS – 52.96 CF% 

Career stats – 1636 GP – 420 G – 1089 A – 1509 PTS 

At my number one and final spot I have Jumbo Joe, Joe Thornton.

If there is anyone I would like the Toronto Maple Leafs to sign during the 2020 offseason, it would be Joe Thornton for many, many reasons.

Thornton has made himself one of the best playmakers of all time, so having him on this Toronto Maple Leafs team playing on that third or fourth line would be awesome. Even having him on the second power play unit would be a great addition.

It seems like the first power play unit has the playmakers but if you add a guy like Thornton on the second unit you get that veteran playmaking experience who can help out.

Joe’s already 40 years old and more than likely on his last contract where he makes more than $1M as he’s currently making $2M on this years contract. Question is, will he return to San Jose again, go somewhere else, or just retire in general?

If somehow the Toronto Maple Leafs re-sign Jason Spezza but let a guy like Frederik Gauthier and or Kyle Clifford walk then they should also pursue Joe Thornton. Imagine a fourth line of Spezza and Thornton the two veteran players who can still play despite their ages. (Stats from NHL.com)

It will be interesting to see what the Toronto Maple Leafs decide to do.