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NHL insider names 3 prime Toronto Maple Leafs targets to fill left-wing void including Nick Cousins
The Toronto Maple Leafs have been in a tight spot with the left wing position after letting go of Tyler Bertuzzi in free agency. Bertuzzi signed a four-year deal with the Chicago Blackhawks at $5.5 million AAV, leaving a void down the left flank for the Leafs.
On Tuesday, NHL Insider Luke Fox suggested that the team should consider more affordable options still available in the free-agent market. Max Pacioretty tops the list as a strong candidate despite his injury history and age.
According to Fox, Pacioretty could sign a bonus-laden contract similar to his previous one with the Washington Capitals, where he managed 23 points in 47 games.
“Speed and injury will be a concern, naturally, but the price, term and risk should be low. Aging scorers James van Riemsdyk and Mike Hoffman fall into a similar category, but Pacioretty will be a compelling case after a full summer of training, not only rehab,” Luke Fox wrote. [H/T Sportsnet]
He also mentioned Nick Cousins, who played the agitator role well during the Florida Panthers' 2024 championship run. Despite being occasionally benched, Cousins could fill a depth role for the Leafs.
Fox also pointed out that Matt Martin, a former Toronto Maple Leafs player, remains unsigned. Although he's 35, the age factor could be overlooked for the forward, as he's considered a good fit for the fourth line.
“A solid teammate and leader who knows his role, Martin is tight with the likes of Mitch Marner and brings a brand of hockey befitting of Berube and Treliving,” the analyst noted.
Toronto Maple Leafs’ left wing void linked with center depth
In the same report, Luke Fox addressed the Leafs' center issues by noting that John Tavares and Max Domi are currently the best middle-six center options available. However, Domi is versatile and often shifts between all forward positions.
According to Fox, it could affect his consistency in the center role. Tavares, who will be 34 when the season starts and may eventually transition to playing left wing as he nears the final stage of his career.
This situation presents some challenges for the Toronto Maple Leafs, particularly with how new coach Craig Berube will organize the lineup.
“New head coach Craig Berube opts to draw it up on the whiteboard, an imperfect left side should make for some intriguing camp competition and line juggling. Especially if/when general manager Brad Treliving signs a veteran winger (or two) to a one-year contract or a PTO.”
The Toronto Maple Leafs have internal options like Matthew Knies, Bobby McMann and Nick Robertson, each with potential to fill the left-wing role. They might also consider external additions, but a major trade seems unlikely.
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