“Toronto Maple Leafs in Hot Pursuit of St. Louis Blues Star: Negotiations Heating Up!” …read more
Toronto Maple Leafs Eyeing Brandon Saad: A Strategic Move for Depth or More?
The St. Louis Blues have officially parted ways with veteran forward Brandon Saad, making him a free agent starting Friday. As a result, several NHL teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, are expected to compete for his signature. Saad, who has a solid history with the Blues, was waived but refused an AHL assignment, leading to his mutual contract termination. The 32-year-old forward, currently walking away from the remainder of his five-year, $22.5 million contract, will have options on the open market, and the Leafs are among the teams actively pursuing him.
Toronto, which has just over $2 million in cap space, will need to make room to sign the two-time Stanley Cup champion. Although they’ve been searching for a center, the Leafs are considering Saad as a potential winger to add depth to their forward lines. Saad has 7 goals and 16 points in 43 games this season, and his 26-goal performance last year highlights his offensive potential.
If Toronto clears the necessary cap space, Saad could be the key to enhancing their bottom-six scoring. There is a personal connection, as Saad previously played under current Leafs head coach Craig Berube in St. Louis, which may further influence his deci
sion.
