I like him for his competitiveness, leadership and willingness to sacrifice in order to win. These are strong assets, especially since he wants to come home.
Overpaying for him would be counter productive though, A first for a rental is only wise in unique circumstances. Last year for Foligno made sense, the Leafs had it's best chance from a matchup perspective that it would ever get due to the pandemic, it was a once in a lifetime situation.
If the price is right, I go for Gio, If not, I pursue Middleton or someone with his pedigree for a cheaper price. The Leafs are one of a few teams that if they get past the first round, they could go all the way, it has to be assessed by probability of any additions.
I do believe that Dubas should make the defense a fortress. You add a D man (or two?, with the newly acquired Russian Bear and Muzzin hopefully able to return at some point and the Leafs D will make life miserable for opposing teams forwards. Something teams like Florida likes to do.