Report: Canadian team shows interest in signing Patrick Marleau

It’s been over three months since the Toronto Maple Leafs traded veteran forward Patrick Marleau to the Carolina Hurricanes. The Hurricanes then, of course, bought Marleau out of his contract making him a free agent. The moment Marleau hit free agency, fans and analysts had him linked back to his former team, the San Jose Sharks. Since then though… nothing.

In fact NHL insider Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reported earlier this month that Marleau NOT be re-joining the team via free agency.

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Interesting. So… where does Marleau look now? The 39 year old is coming off his lowest point total in a full season since his rookie campaign way back in 1997-98, but is still a valuable player given his strong defensive ability and his outstanding skating. He might be the fastest 39 year old to ever play in the NHL.

In his latest 31 Thoughts column for Sportsnet, Friedman reports that the Edmonton Oilers “had interest” in Marleau, but for whatever reason, the team ultimately decided not to tender him an offer.

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 There were reports last week that Edmonton had interest in Patrick Marleau, but I don’t think that’s going to happen. - Elliotte Friedman

Could another young team like the Buffalo Sabres, Colorado Avalanche, Detroit Red Wings or New York Rangers use Marleau’s experience? 

Or, maybe Marleau is looking for one last chance at the Stanley Cup? If that’s the case, he’d be a perfect fit on a team like the Washington Capitals, Pittsburgh Penguins, St. Louis Blues or Boston Bruins. 

Maybe he wants to return home to California? Or the west coast in general? If that’s the case, the Anaheim Ducks, Los Angeles Kings and Vancouver Canucks could all be potential destinations.

Wherever he ends up, let’s just hope that Marleau manages to earn himself a contract before the season starts. There just aren’t enough old guys left in this league.