3 Veterans Toronto Maple Leafs Should Consider Signing.

 

 

 

The 2024-25 Toronto Maple Leafs are still developing their roster and should consider adding veteran talent to strengthen their team. Historically, they have brought in experienced players during the summer, such as Patrick Marleau, Joe Thornton, Jason Spezza, and Wayne Simmonds, and this year should be no different.

Currently, the most veteran forward on the Leafs is John Tavares. At 33, Tavares is entering his 16th NHL season and has yet to reach the Conference Finals. As he approaches the final year of his seven-year deal with Toronto, the Leafs have managed only one playoff round win in that period. The team’s depth could improve with a mix of young and veteran players, allowing them to maximize the salary cap, especially with four forwards making a combined $45 million.

Here are three potential veteran forwards the Leafs could sign cheaply or on a PTO:

1.Tyler Johnson: It’s surprising Johnson hasn’t found a team yet. With over 700 games of experience and two Stanley Cup wins, he could be a valuable addition. Despite his small stature (5-foot-8, 185 pounds) and a previous high cap hit, Johnson still scored 17 goals last season with the Chicago Blackhawks. If signed for $1 million AAV, he could be more productive than Pontus Holmberg or David Kampf.

2. Max Pacioretty: Pacioretty’s injury history is concerning, having played only 139 games in the last four seasons, but he still managed 23 points in 47 games last season with the Washington Capitals. As a six-time 30-goal scorer, he could be a power-play asset. Signing him at league minimum could be a gamble worth taking, given his potential to contribute significantly.

3. Mike Hoffman: Although Hoffman hasn’t matched his peak performance of 36 goals and 70 points with the Florida Panthers, he could still be a 15-20 goal scorer. Stuck on struggling teams like the Montreal Canadiens and San Jose Sharks recently, he scored 23 points last season, which would place him 13th on the Leafs. Hoffman could provide additional depth and versatility as a left-winger or center, potentially at a low cost.

The Leafs should consider these veteran options to bolster their roster, as players like David Kampf and Ryan Reaves may not provide the best value. Veteran players don’t need to be record-breakers but should offer solid defense and occasional contributions. If a veteran forward can score 15 goals and 40 points in a third-line role for $1 million AAV or less, it would be a successful addition.