Should the Leafs re-sign Boyle?

What kind of deal would the 33 year-old veteran command? Can he fit long-term with the Buds?

HockeyFeed
HockeyFeed
Published 6 years ago
Should the Leafs re-sign Boyle?
Keystone Press

When he was acquired from the Tampa Bay Lightning in advance of the NHL’s Trade Deadline, giant centerman Brian Boyle played admirably for the Toronto Maple Leafs down the stretch and into the playoffs. With his three-year contract expiring on July 1st however, Leafs management will have to make the decision on whether or not they consider Boyle a temporary mercenary or a permanent member of the team moving forward.

One thing’s for sure wherever Boyle ends up, Toronto or otherwise, he’ll likely end up playing a fourth line role with some special teams minutes on the penalty kill. The 6’7”, 243 lb Boyle is a physical specimen who excels at using his size and reach to keep opponents at bay. He’s a face-off specialist and an experienced player who can help take some of the Leafs’ younger players under his wing. But, what kind of contract will he command? And, perhaps most importantly, what kind of term will he be seeking?

It’s likely that the Leafs would be comfortable brining back Boyle on a one year deal, with an annual salary somewhere in the neighborhood of his current $2 million agreement. Being 33 years old, Boyle would likely seek something more long-term, maybe in the neighbourhood of three years or more. That’s probably too much of a commitment for a young Leafs team, but might a two year deal appeal to both sides?

The thing is, as good a fit as Boyle has been with the Leafs in his fourth line role, the position isn’t difficult to fill and there will likely be other options for the team in free agency. Of course, sometimes the devil you know is better than the devil you don’t. Regardless of what happens with Boyle and the Leafs, it’ll be interesting to see how president Brendan Shanahan and general manager Lou Lamoriello address the situation this offseason.