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3 left-wingers Toronto Maple Leafs should consider signing feat. Max Pacioretty
In a recent edition of Sportsnet's 32 Thoughts, sports journalist Elliotte Friedman reported on assorted rumblings around the NHL. One of those items was the Toronto Maple Leafs’ interest in signing a left winger.
While the Maple Leafs have various options heading into training camp, they could use some support for the team’s young core.
With that in mind, here’s a look a three left wing options that Toronto could bring into training this fall.
3 left wingers Toronto Maple Leafs should consider
3. James van Riemsdyk
At 35 years old, van Riemsdyk is still a productive player. Last season, he notched 11 goals and 38 points with the Boston Bruins.
While van Riemsdyk is now predominantly a bottom six forward, he could play a key role in the Maple Leafs' scoring depth and mentor some of the team’s younger players. It's worth noting that he was part of Toronto's roster from 2012 to 2018.
There’s another interesting benefit to signing van Riemsdyk. His strong net-front presence could be highly useful on the club’s second power play unit, potentially boosting the Leafs' overall effectiveness with the man advantage.
Considering that van Riemsdyk made $1 million last season, Toronto could bring him into camp on a deal close to league minimum. If that’s the case, the club should certainly consider kicking the tires on a reunion with van Riemsdyk.
2. Mike Hoffman
Hoffman had a down year while playing with the San Jose Sharks last season, where he notched just 10 goals in 66 games. Considering he played on one of the worst teams in the NHL, it’s not surprising to see Hoffman’s numbers dip that much.
However, playing on a team like the Toronto Maple Leafs could significantly boost Hoffman’s numbers; potentially breaking the 20-goal mark, providing depth scoring from a bottom-six role. He could also jump into the middle six if injuries strike the team.
Hoffman made $4.5 million in 2023, but he should not command that much this upcoming season. If Toronto can sign him to a team-friendly deal, around $1 million or so, he could become an interesting depth piece to include this year.
1. Max Pacioretty
Admittedly, Pacioretty is no longer the force he once was. Injuries have taken their toll on the former Montreal Canadiens captain, limiting him to 47 games with the Washington Capitals last year. He managed to score just four goals in that span.
At 35 years old, Pacioretty may not have a lot left in the tank. But if the Leafs can bring him in on a league-minimum deal, he could deliver a solid performance and veteran leadership from a fourth line role. Otherwise, the Leafs could waive him. In that situation, there’s very little chance any other team might claim him.
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