The Toronto Maple Leafs pursued a free agent this offseason that might have significantly altered the future of their redesigned blue line, according to today’s NHL rumors rundown. The Detroit Red Wings acknowledge that they lost out on a high-profile free agent in the interim. The Anaheim Ducks likewise made a bold but unsuccessful attempt. Are the New York Rangers done with moves for now?
This offseason, the Maple Leafs signed Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson as free agents, but they were also actively pursuing Matt Roy prior to his signing with the Washington Capitals. The Leafs wanted to strengthen their front four, especially on the right side, and bolster their defensive unit. “I think Matt Roy was a little bit of the one that got away,” says NHL insider Chris Johnston.
As NHL free agency got underway, Roy inked a big six-year, $34.5 million contract with the Washington Capitals. The Maple Leafs lacked the cap space necessary to make such a trade.
As free agency got underway, the Detroit Red Wings were reportedly looking for a top-six forward, according to Bob Duff of Detroit Hockey Now. General Manager Steve Yzerman stated that they were considering a top-tier UFA, but he withheld the player’s identity. According to Yzerman, “We thought there was a fit.” However, these transactions must proceed swiftly. We opted not to pursue it further after realizing it would take a lot of work.
Many conjectured that the athlete in issue was none other than Steven Stamkos, who signed a contract worth $8 million a year for four years. Before Stamkos signed with Nashville, there were whispers circulating that, should he choose not to re-up with the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Red Wings would be among the few teams making a serious attempt to sign him.
The cost and the fact that Stamkos spoke with Jonathan Marchessault prior to visiting the Predators could have played a role. It’s possible that Detroit was reluctant to sign both guys.
Eric Stephens of The Athletic pointed out that the Anaheim Ducks made an attempt to acquire two of the best players available, Stamkos and Marchessault. They failed to hit. He clarified:
With their cap freedom, players on the roster, and prospects at their disposal, the franchise may now look to the trade market. Top-four defenseman and right winger were the two players the Ducks were after.
