Toronto Maple Leafs Problems
Let’s also not forget that the Leafs appear to be in a contractual stand-off with their All-Star goalie, Jack Campbell right now. Renewing his deal has been seen as a key piece of business, but feels increasingly questionable.
Not renewing the fan favourite goalie might not be an utter failure especially if it prevents an overpay that the team might regret. Finding alternatives in net isn’t exactly easy business either.
Moving on to another issue rearing it’s ugly head right now – namely the contract renewal of Rasmus Sandin. The future of the Toronto Maple Leafs blueline has for quite some time been regarded as both Rasmus Sandin and Timothy Liljegren.
Unfortunately for Kyle Dubas, his addition of a very useful competitor in Mark Giordano may very well have upset the apple cart when it comes to the young Swede.
Right now, the Toronto Maple Leafs left side is made up of Morgan Rielly, Jake Muzzin, Mark Giordano and Rasmus Sandin. That’s a pretty experienced and challenging group to break through.
However, Sandin is unlikely to cost very much money on a short-term deal, and the Leafs are not likely to move on from a 23 year old defenseman with as much promise as he has, regardless of the roster’s current makeup.
Finally, looking to the NHL Entry Draft in Montreal and the Toronto Maple Leafs lack much by way of draft picks. As of this moment, they’ll be picking just 3 players; one in the first round, one in the third and one in the seventh. This is the cost of being a competitive team, but the Leafs done an excellent job of adding prospects to the system outside of the draft in order to make up for trading picks.
Additionally, the Leafs had 18 draft picks in 2019 and 2020 combined, instead of the normal 14, so it does seem like they prepared for this scenario.
With all this said, it’s up to Kyle Dubas to make good of a summer that doesn’t look, from an outside perspective, like it’ll be much fun in the Toronto Maple Leafs office.
If indeed he can get the Leafs out of Mrazek’s contract, find a starting goaltender whether that’s Jack Campbell or otherwise, renew the Leafs depth and maybe add some bargain deals with the hopes of another Bunting-like breakout, then maybe we can view it as a successful summer.