4 players that the Toronto Maple Leafs gave up on too soon this century

Which players should the Maple Leafs regret in letting go from their grasp too early?

Jun 9, 2021; Uniondale, New York, USA; Boston Bruins goalie Tuukka Rask (40) reacts after a goal by New York Islanders right wing Kyle Palmieri (not pictured) during the second period of game six of the second round of the 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Jun 9, 2021; Uniondale, New York, USA; Boston Bruins goalie Tuukka Rask (40) reacts after a goal by New York Islanders right wing Kyle Palmieri (not pictured) during the second period of game six of the second round of the 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | Brad Penner-Imagn Images
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Alexander Steen

Similar to Boyes, Alexander Steen was also taken in the first round, 24th overall by the Leafs, but this time from the 2002 NHL Entry Draft. But unlike Boyes, Steen actually got his chance to suit up for the Maple Leafs starting from the 2005-06 season. Despite averaging double-digit in goals and close to 40 points per season in his first three years with Toronto, Steen appeared to struggle in reaching the next level in his game to provide more of an offensive impact for the Leafs. 

As a result, during the 2008-09 season, Steen was ultimately dealt to the St. Louis Blues along with defenceman Carlo Colaiacovo for right winger Lee Stempniak.

Stempniak had once put up 27 goals during the 2006-07 NHL season, so the Leafs were hoping that his better scoring touch could make a difference for the club. Unfortunately, those 27 goals would turn out to be the most he would have in one season for the rest of his NHL career as he put up just 11 and 14 goals for the Leafs in his two years with the team.

As for Steen, he would become an important piece of the Blues’ top-six for over the next 12 years, all the way until his eventual retirement.

In 765 total games, he registered 195 goals, 301 assists for 496 points, including four seasons of 20+ goals and five seasons of 30+ assists. More importantly, he played a role in helping the Blues to their first ever Stanley Cup win in 2018-19.

Steen would finish off his career by reaching his NHL milestone 1000th game during his final season in the league as well. With his loyalty and solid play over many seasons with St. Louis, he could have done exactly the same with Toronto and perhaps could have even been a factor in helping them reach the playoffs.

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