The biggest area of need is on the back end, including someone between the pipes. James Reimer was average at best last year and due a big increase in pay, leading a few hockey experts to believe a move to add a new goalie will be made through a free agency signing or possibly a trade.
Recent rumors on Twitter have the front office looking at Anaheim net-minder Frederik Andersen. The 26-year-old hasn’t been spectacular, but he could provide the same level of play at a much lower price, leaving more money for other areas of need.
Tim Chiasson of Fan Sided doesn’t believe it’s in the best interest of the franchise, mostly because its not an upgrade at the position, but the Ducks restricted free agent had a terrific showing in the playoffs this year, despite the team being knocked out in the first round and those numbers would be an immediate improvement for the Leafs.
It appears several NHL teams are showing interest, but Toronto has both the draft picks to use as trade bait, along with a good amount of room under the salary cap. The Ducks will look to get what they can as they don’t want to lose the veteran without acquiring any compensation, especially with the upcoming expansion draft where they would leave Anderson available with youngster John Gibson waiting in the wings.
The Maple Leafs have some good young players ready to hit the big time and with the addition of a veteran or two this summer, the rebuilding they started last year could move forward more quickly. Anderson is a solid option in the net and with another scoring forward likely being signed, a top-8 finish in the Eastern Conference isn’t out of the question next season.
