From 32 thoughts.
8. Even though Toronto put Jake Muzzin on long-term injury, I think the Maple Leafs still have to get a handle on his situation. We know now the danger of cumulative concussions, and the bruising defender suffered a previous one on Jan. 15. Guessing recovery timelines is silly. They know he’s out until at least mid-March, and can see where everything stands before the deadline. They’ll do their legwork in the meantime.
While I do think JT Miller is perfect for them — and they have talked to Vancouver — I don’t think the Maple Leafs feel that is their number one priority. They aren’t finished trying to tinker with their blue line, and, at the very least, must be considering goaltending options. They had conversations with Dallas about John Klingberg, and may revisit after adding some edge they desired in Ilya Lyubushkin. By my math, they could have $7M in cap room, although a pre-playoff return for Muzzin complicates that.
9. Toronto’s made it clear they desire to hold Matthew Knies and Topi Niemela — especially for rentals or shorter-term options. Nick Robertson for a rental seems unlikely. I suspect that, after the Olympics, Nick Abruzzese moved towards this group, as well. They don’t have a ton of draft picks, but feel very good about their prospects.
Basically Klingberg they are considering, and Knies and Niemela are likely untouchable. Robertson and Abruzzese aren't available for a rental.
I like this.
