The Best Case Scenario Off-Season for the Toronto Maple Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs have a very busy summer ahead of them. Here is the best case scenario version of what could happen.

Apr 27, 2024; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs right wing Mitch Marner (16) celebrates scoring a goal against the Boston Bruins during the third period in game four of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY
Apr 27, 2024; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs right wing Mitch Marner (16) celebrates scoring a goal against the Boston Bruins during the third period in game four of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY | Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
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There are only two free-agents I'm interested, and I'm going to make both of them very rich.

I have no interest in Chis Tanev - he's good, but he's too old and so too risky.

I don't think Brandon Montour is as good as people think he is, and his contract is going to be stupid. I have no interest.

Matt Roy is a good player and excellent at defense, but I don't think he has the upside to make it worth overpaying him in free-agency.

The player I want is Nikita Zadorov. I will offer him a full seven years and $7 million annual salary, front-loaded of course!

It's a massive overpay, but he's the guy I want. He's huge and is just starting to come into his own as a top player. I think this is a huge risk, but it's also got an absolutely massive reward if all goes right.

My second choice is Dylan Demelo and I give him a 5 x $5 deal that he happily accepts. He's 31 so this is pretty risky, but I think he's a smart player who will age well.

These are the only players I am interested in signing. The rest of my roster can be filled out at the trade deadline, if necessary.

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