Insider Chris Johnston gives update on free agent defenceman linked to Toronto Maple Leafs
It had been reported that free agent defenceman Jani Hakanpaa was on the verge of signing a contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs when free agency opened on July 1st. Six weeks later, the deal has yet to be signed. So, what's the problem?
The Athletics' Chris Johnston provided an update on Hakanpaa and the idea that he'd be willing to see things through.
If Hakanpaa can join the Maple Leafs he would likely be fighting for the seventh defenceman spot with Connor Timmins. The Maple Leafs sit $1.5 million under the salary cap and the defenceman was slated to make $1.5 million. Not to mention Nick Robertson who is currently without a contract but has requested a trade from Toronto. But the Maple Leafs still need to make a deal to give themselves a little more flexibility.
In 66 games for the Dallas Stars, Hakanpaa had 2 goals, with ten assists while averaging over 18 minutes of ice time a night. So, it's evident if he gets healthy, he can be a minute's eater. He also can skate on the penalty kill while possessing the toughness the Toronto Maple Leafs have lacked for so long. By the end of last season, he had 196 hits along with 123 blocked shots.
If he lands in Toronto, he certainly can help. If for some reason, he doesn't can Brad Treliving be blamed for a mistake that realistically should not have happened?
Source - The Leafs Nation
Jani Hakanpaa reportedly believes he can play in 2024-2025 despite concerns over knee injury
| POLL | ||
Will Jani Hakanpaa play for the Toronto Maple Leafs during the 2024-2025 season? | ||
| Yes. It will work out | 20 | 30.8 % |
| No. His knee is too damaged | 45 | 69.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
