The Toronto Maple Leafs came to terms with free agent Alex Steeves on Wednesday. The deal is a two-way contract worth $775,000 if Steeves sticks with the Leafs at the NHL level, CTV reports.
Steeves has played in parts of three seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs totalling seven games. He’s registered one assist in that span.
The Saint Paul, Minnesota native joined Toronto as an undrafted free agent. He’s managed to work hard, earning a spot predominantly with the Marlies. Nevertheless, he’s been part of the Leafs callups, getting multiple looks at training camps over the past couple of seasons.
Steeves is a gritty, hardworking winger who fits Craig Berube’s rough-and-tumble style. At 6’0”, Steeves doesn’t lack for size, making him a good choice to play on the Toronto Maple Leafs bottom six. Most importantly, the Leafs will need depth at the forward position, particularly considering that injuries can play a role once the season begins.
The Leafs will bring Steeves into training camp this fall, though it’s unlikely he’ll make the team straight away. He’ll most likely start the year with the Marlies.
However, there’s a chance that Steeves could find himself on the fourth line, especially in situations where Berube may want to sit Ryan Reaves in favor of a more dynamic presence on the bottom unit.
Why Signing Alex Steeves Was a Smart Move
Like virtually all contenders, the Toronto Maple Leafs need cheap contracts to round out the roster. Steeves fits that mould. But he’s not just a cheap contract that can fill out a roster spot. Steeves is similar to Bobby McMann in that Steeves is not afraid to play every shift like his hair is on fire.
Personally, I’ve been a big fan of Steeve’s. I believe he has the potential to play a meaningful bottom-six role. If given the right opportunity, he could turn into a revelation much like McMann did last season.
Thus far, Steeves hasn’t gotten a shot to stick with the Leafs. But if the club is looking to move more expensive bottom-six forwards like Calle Jarnkrok or David Kampf, Steeves should jump into the mix.
Moreover, there’s one other key reason why re-signing Steeves was a solid move. Steeves it 24. He’s a young player who still has room to evolve and improve. The Toronto Maple Leafs need to inject that youth and energy as the club looks to support newly-named captain Auston Matthews.
Who knows, Steeves could turn into another Zach Hyman or Michael Bunting. That’s the great thing about young players like Steeves. Such players can become diamonds in the rough, adding value to contending clubs looking to make every penny count.