NHL Rumors: Michael Mazzei pushes Toronto Maple Leafs to pursue Ducks RFA

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Jul 25, 2024 16:25 GMT

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Hockey analyst Michael Mazzei suggests the Toronto Maple Leafs should consider signing Gustav Lindstrom. Lindstrom is a restricted free agent for the Anaheim Ducks. Mazzei's advice comes as the Leafs face uncertainty about signing Jani Hakanpaa. Although the Leafs had a deal with Hakanpaa, it was delayed due to concerns about his knee, which raises questions about whether the contract will be finalized.

Mazzei notes that Lindstrom’s situation is like Simon Benoit’s last year. Benoit’s unexpected success with the Leafs shows that Lindstrom could also impress. Lindstrom might be a low-risk, high-reward option, possibly signing for close to the league minimum or on a professional tryout (PTO).

"Lindstrom is a young Ducks defenceman who was not given a QO and has the tools to be a reliable NHLer who just needs to right opportunity to prove a point," Mazzei writes (via theleafsnation.com).

Lindstrom had an inconsistent year, moving between three teams and playing 46 games. He scored 10 points and had a +12 plus-minus rating. Despite being on a struggling Ducks team, his performance was a positive highlight. Anaheim did not tender him a qualifying offer, so Lindstrom is now a free agent. He could be a good option for teams needing depth on the right side.

Even if Hakanpaa’s situation resolves well, adding Lindstrom could still be beneficial. If Hakanpaa’s deal falls through, Lindstrom is a good backup option to strengthen the Leafs’ defensive lineup.

Maple Leafs could benefit from signing Evgeny Kuznetsov

The Toronto Maple Leafs have limited options left in the free-agent market but could benefit from a potential opportunity. Jesse Courville-Lynch of The Hockey Writers suggested they should consider signing Evgeny Kuznetsov, who was released by the Carolina Hurricanes.

“There was a belief he could opt to join the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) in Russia, but a recent report states that he could end up back in the NHL this upcoming season,” Lynch wrote.

Despite early talk of Kuznetsov joining the KHL, he might return to the NHL.

Lynch believes that acquiring Kuznetsov will allow the Maple Leafs to experiment with their lineup. He believes Kuznetsov may sign for around $1 million on a short-term contract. This would save money while also providing the Maple Leafs with lineup flexibility.