RUMOR: Leafs will improve defense through free-agency

Now that the Toronto Maple Leafs have locked up defenseman Nikita Zaitsev to a long-term deal, the team’s management will look to shore up deficiencies on the blue line with another free-agent acquisition. At least, that’s the theory floated by Leafs writer Anthony Fusco of The Hockey Writers.

In his latest article in which he breaks down the Leafs’ blue line options moving forward, Fusco highlights some interesting names as possible offseason acquisitions. Washington Capitals defensive defensman Karl Alzner will likely hit the open market but will likely receive a steep raise from his modest $2.8 million annual salary. Other options include Michael Stone, Dimitri Kulikov and former Leaf Cody Franson.

Whether or not the Leafs sign one or two of the above mentioned players is all dependant on whether or not they bring back both Matt Hunwick and Roman Polak for next season. Both players are on expiring contracts, but would almost assuredly welcome a return to Toronto. 

Whatever route the Leafs decide to go, the team is likely to have an improved defense corps for 2017-18. With the emergence of Zaitsev, along with Morgan Rielly and Jake Gardiner, and some veteran additions, the defense should show steady improvement.