Former Toronto Maple Leaf gives up on NHL dream at 26-years-old signs long-term deal outside of the league

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Josh tupper
July 18, 2023 (11:08)

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For hockey players, to play in the National Hockey League is always their ultimate goal. Players aspire their entire lives to try and play in the best league in the world. For some they achieve their ultimate dream, but for others they never quite make it.

For Denis Malgin his dream was to play in the NHL, which he accomplished. After being drafted by the Florida Panthers in the 4th round, he would go onto play parts of 4 seasons in Florida before being traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Despite struggling in Toronto during his initial tenure, Kyle Dubas insisted on giving him another contract for last season.

Malgin's time in Toronto would come to an end when he was finally traded to the Colorado Avalanche. Now after a brief stint with the Avalanche, Maltin has decided long-term stability is more important than chasing his NHL dream. Today it was announced Malgin had signed a 5-year deal to play in Europe.

Former #LeafsForever    and #GoAvsGo    Denis Malgin signs five-year contract with ZSC Lions of the 🇨🇭 #NationalLeague

While this marks the end to his NHL dream, we wish him luck in Zurich.

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