It hasn’t been easy as the previous regime left little room under the salary cap to work with, and the team had some bad contracts that needed removing. But two solid summers of moves and fans of this team should be excited about the 2016-17 season.
Management has found a new starter between the pipes and added a quality backup this summer. The team also has high hopes for Auston Matthews, the first overall pick in June and the future face of the franchise. Add another couple of youngsters that will break into the teams lineup this year and for the first time in awhile, followers are expecting a big season from the Leafs.
Despite all the enthusiasm, the front office is still looking to make improvements, especially on the back end of the ice and reports have surfaced that Kris Russell could be added in the coming days. The 29-year-old has become a solid contributor on both ends of the ice, but his biggest asset is experience.
Most NHL experts are surprised the veteran is still on the free agent market, but the former third round pick has purposely waited, giving teams time to add more room under the cap and searching for the best fit as he looks to closeout his career with a franchise that can compete for a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The Hockey Writers have reported that eight teams now have a genuine interest in Russell, including Toronto and with the Maple Leafs on the verge of becoming one of the better teams in the Eastern Conference, it makes sense for the two sides to come together in the coming weeks and make something happen.
