Toronto Maple Leafs: 3 Defenseman Who Could Replace Jake McCabe

Toronto Maple Leafs: 3 Defenseman Who Could Replace Jake McCabe

No. 1: William Lagesson

Lagesson may be playing for the Toronto Marlies right now, but he’s not really a prospect at this point in his career. With 60 NHL games under his belt, the 27-year-old has been a fringe player for the past few years, but could find another opportunity with the Leafs, as he was recalled yesterday and will likely play tonight.

At 6-foot-2, 196 pounds, Lagesson plays a strong physical game, which is an important asset, as McCabe was one of the most physical defenseman on the roster.

After showing very little offensive output for years, Lagesson blossomed with the Chicago Wolves last year when he scored 10 goals and contributed 32 points, but that may be somewhat of a fluke, as he only has one assist in five games with the Marlies this year.

Throughout his career, he’s typically been more of a stay-at-home defenseman, who defends well and doesn’t move the puck up the ice great.

Based on what Toronto needs, I think Lagesson could be a great fit as the team doesn’t need a defenseman who can produce offensively.

They need to be much better defensively and can’t rely on their goaltender winning games for them every night.