Toronto Maple Leafs might re-sign Mark Giorando, but it's a terrible idea
Based on Brad Treliving's history, the Toronto Maple Leafs will probably re-sign Mark Giordano to a one-year deal, worth league-minimum, which doesn't sound like a big deal, but it's a bad idea.
When the Toronto Maple Leafs traded for Mark Giordano, it was a great move to bring the veteran defenseman home for one last kick at a Stanley Cup, but that was two years ago. Giordano is set to be 41-years-old next month and doesn't have much left in the tank, so it's time to move on.
If we were talking about Giordano joining the Leafs front office, like Jason Spezza, or becoming a coach like Stéphane Robidas, then I'd be on-board with this decision, but he should not be playing professional hockey anymore. He could find flashes for a few games and turn back the clock, but the Leafs defense doesn't need him right now.
As of right now, if everyone stays healthy, Giordano would be the team's eigth, or seventh at best, defenseman. I can understand the logic of re-signing him, in case there are injuries, but I'd rather see a rookie given that opportunity over Giordano.
Toronto Maple Leafs might re-sign Mark Giorando, but it's a terrible idea
Topi Niemela, Marshall Rifai and Cade Webber are three defenseman who deserve an NHL opportunity, instead of the soon-to-be 41-year-old. However, it's no secret that Treliving has a strong relationship with "Gio", who he'd previously spent a lot of time with during his tenure with the Calgary Flames.
As a result, I'll be shocked if the Leafs don't re-sign Giordano, providing another reason why Treliving should be fired.
Treliving has been given an unbelievable opportunity to take the Leafs to the next level and there hasn't been a single move he's made where I've gone, "Yep, that's the answer!" Instead, I've continued to question every single move, knowing that it's a terrible decision.
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Mark Giordano has had a fantastic career and by all accounts, is super respected in the room and someone players admire, but just like we saw with Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau and Jason Spezza, the good times have to end eventually and re-signing him will stop a younger player's opportunity to excel and the Leafs shouldn't want that.