No. 4: Dylan Strome
Eric and Marc Staal both signed in Florida on Day 1, so the Strome brothers should have done the same in Toronto, before Ryan signed in Anaheim late Wednesday night.
Dylan is a great player, who was another victim of Chicago’s rebuild. Instead of qualifying him, they let him go and now that he’s a free agent, the Leafs should definitely consider signing him.
The 25-year-old was a former high-end pick (3rd overall in 2015 NHL Entry) who hasn’t quite developed into the player everyone thought he would be. However, after scoring 22 goals last year, Strome is slowly coming into his own and getting an opportunity to play in Toronto’s top-six could extend him into a 30-goal scorer.
Obviously it comes down to price, but Strome would be a great fit in Toronto.
He brings solid size and skill, but could be another value contract who takes a hometown discount to play in Toronto. The Leafs need to continue to flex their muscles that playing in Toronto is a great fit for him, as they look to add to their top-six wing or third-line centre position.