Hakanpaa could help the PK
It took a while, but the Leafs finally officially announced the signing of Hakanpaa. The delay was related to health concerns around the big defenseman's knee.
Hakanpaa is a depth signing and won't crack the top four on defense, but getting him in the fold should help the Maple Leafs penalty-killing. The team's power play is consistently among the NHL's best, but the Leafs play while shorthanded has regressed in recent years.
During the 2023-2024 season, it ranked near the bottom of the league at 76.9%, although this was mostly a goaltending problem. If the Leafs want to be a top-tier team this must improve. Having the 6'7" Hakanpaa on a third pairing and playing while short-handed should help.
Watching Hakanpaa's movements throughout camp and the preseason will indicate if he is healthy enough to challenge for a job and help the Maple Leafs dreadful penalty-killing units.
Last chance for a couple of Leafs draft picks
The hiring of Berube is a fresh start for everyone. Two players, in particular, should relish the chance. Robertson and defenseman Timothy Liljegren will look to earn the new coach's trust.
Robertson was unhappy with his role last year and asked to be traded before realizing it wasn't in his best interests. He could not find a consistent role under former coach Sheldon Keefe.
The same can be said for Liljegren. Both players alternated between a regular spot in the lineup and being an occasional healthy scratch.
The time has come for both to prove there is more than what they have shown so far during their time with the Leafs. The 2024-2025 season is the last chance for both to show they can be important contributors to the team. Continued inconsistency will see both moved elsewhere.
With the Toronto Maple Leafs training camp and preseason nearing, the plight of these players and others will soon be determined.