Forwards the Toronto Maple Leafs could be interested in signing or trading for

Kevin Labanc

I wrote about Labanc in June as a “buy-low” option for the Maple Leafs.

Now, at the end of August he is still left without a contract. Despite injury struggles in 2021-22 which held him to only 21 games where he scored six points, Labanc was able to bounce back well scoring 15 goals and 33 points through 72 games in 2022-23.

It seems clear that he still has a scoring touch and he could be a perfect low-risk high-reward option for the cap strapped Leafs. I would not bank on him reaching his previous career high of 56 points but if he can land somewhere between 35 and 55 points, he would provide surplus value.

Jakub Vrana

Jakub Vrana signed a professional try-out agreement (PTO) with the Washington Capitals recently but given he is not under a standard NHL contract, he is free to sign if he chooses to.

Like Labanc, Vrana was once a highly touted scorer and between injury struggles and off-ice issues, he has seemingly fallen from grace. He spent much of last season with the St. Louis Blues’ AHL affiliate and scored a respectable 36 points in 42 games. 

It is clear that he still possesses skill and if given the right environment, he may be able to flourish. Given the vacancy on their top-six leftwing spot, Vrana could find chemistry with John Tavares and William Nylander who have both shown an ability to elevate linemates throughout their careers. On a cheap one-year deal, he could be worth it.