No. 3: Jeremy Lauzon (Seattle Kraken, D)
If you’re looking for a cheap defenseman who plays with physicality and has a ton of upside, Lauzon may be that player for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The former second-round pick in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft was drafted high not only because of his physical game, but because of his offensive ability. In his draft-year, he scored 15 goals and contributed 80 PIM’s (which was second on the team).
Throughout his hockey career, Lauzon has never been shy to drop the gloves. Whether it was in the QMJHL, AHL or NHL, Lauzon will fight whenever he’s asked.
Luazon already has four fights this season and had a spirited battle against tough-guy Josh Manson, so at $850K, he could be a good fit on Toronto’s blue-line.
As a left-handed defenseman, Luzon could provide depth on the third-pair and could add toughness that Toronto is desperately missing on their blue-line.