The Toronto Maple Leafs and Brian Elliott, Does it Make Sense?
In a recent New York Post article, New York Rangers writer Larry Brooks stated that veteran goalie Brian Elliott could be on his way to the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Brooks has a lengthy article with several takes on different topics and his only comment linking the Toronto Maple Leafs to Elliott was “Jaro Halak, Brian Elliott, Martin Jones and Thomas Greiss are out there seeking jobs as backups, with Elliott perhaps on his way to Toronto”.
There is nothing in the post that states whether it is just speculation by Brooks or if he has inside information indicating the move.
Either way, the rumour, if it has enough steam to be even called that has built up traction in the Toronto market.
Does a Deal Make Sense for the Toronto Maple Leafs?
Does Elliott and the Toronto Maple Leafs make any sense? As the clubs back-up, there is not a chance he is there, while a depth goalie playing on the Marlies may be an option.
Ilya Samsonov has his arbitration hearing later this month, but early indications are that the two could likely resolve the contract before than. That leads Samsonov as the number one goalie and Joseph Woll as the back-up which would leave no room for Elliott and this is before the team deals with Matt Murray.
The only way that a deal makes sense to bring in Elliott is whether or not he is prepared to be on the Toronto Marlies roster for the entirety of the season. The only reason he would see time with the club is if one Woll or Samsonov were to go down with an injury and with their track record this is clearly a possibility.
The 2012 William Jennings Trophy winner has played just four AHL games over the last 14 years, so you have to imagine that the only way he would take this deal is if there are no other NHL options out there for him.
If Elliott and the Leafs were to come to an agreement, he would have to clear waivers to be sent to the Marlies, at which case if claimed he would have an NHL job again.
On the Marlies, Elliott would serve as a veteran leader and an unofficial goalie coach to a crop of young netminders in the organization.
Part of the deal would likely have Elliott stay in Toronto while the Marlies were on road trips.
Next. Grade the Senators / Red Wings Trade. dark
The only way I see this deal ever happening is if the veteran goalie knows that there is no NHL jobs out there and is not yet to hang up the pads.