Toronto Maple Leafs: Josiah Slavin Signs with Toronto Marlies

The Toronto Maple Leafs have been quiet lately, but the Toronto Marlies continue to add to their roster. They announced on Sunday, July 9th, that they have signed forward Josiah Slavin to a one-year AHL contract.

Slavin has the potential to be a bottom-six forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs, but he needs to prove himself with the Marlies first.

A good season in the AHL could lead to an NHL contract in the future. The 24-year-old Slavin is the younger brother of Carolina Hurricane’s defenseman Jaccob Slavin.

Last season, Josiah Slavin registered seven goals and 11 assists for 18 points in 67 games with the Rockford IceHogs and San Diego Gulls. During the 2021-22 season, Slavin registered 18 goals and 14 assists for 32 points in 49 games with the IceHogs. He also played 15 games with the Chicago Blackhawks and recorded one assist. (Stats from eliteprospects.com)

Slavin offers size (6’3, 190 Lbs) and a long reach, which are things new Toronto Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving values. Toronto’s assistant director of player personnel, Wes Clark, points out that Slavin has great intelligence and ability to think about the game. Hopefully, it will serve him well with the Marlies.

Fans will notice a unique characteristic about Slavin when they attend a Toronto Marlies game in person. Slavin, a devout Christian, kneels at center ice and prays following every game he plays. He points out that there have been instances where he gets some “crap” from the other team but says, “It’s not for anyone else but me to have a moment with God and thank him for giving me an opportunity to play the game.” 

Toronto Marlies Re-sign Joseph Blandisi

On Monday morning, the Toronto Marlies announced the re-signing of 28-year-old forward Joseph Blandisi. The new deal is a one-year AHL contract. Blandisi registered 15 goals and 24 assists for 39 points in 61 games last season with the Marlies. He also recorded seven points in seven playoff games last season.

Having Blandisi and his offense returning to the lineup this season will be a good thing for the Marlies. He will look to improve upon his career year and try to record his first 20-goal season. He has become a fan favourite in his two seasons with the Marlies, so I’m sure there are plenty of fans excited to have him back.

The Toronto Marlies finished the 2022-23 season in first place in the North Division. They will be looking to remain competitive and try to win the division again this season.