Insider Reveals Why the Maple Leafs Probably Won't Land Brandon Saad
The Toronto Maple Leafs have shown some interest in signing free agent Brandon Saad but according to TSN's Darren Dreger he doesn't think they will make a serious push.
Brandon Saad who is a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Chicago Blackhawks has recently had his contract terminated by the St. Louis Blues after clearing the waivers.
Here's why the Toronto Maple Leafs won't pursue Brandon Saad
While he already played with Craig Berube, Dreger notes that Saad's offensive production has not been that good this season and that he has begun to slow down.
That decline in scoring is one of the biggest reasons why he became available in the first place.
Toronto's biggest obstacle in signing Saad is their current roster needs since Brad Treliving is focused on improving the team's depth at center and strengthening the blue line.
While captain John Tavares is expected to return soon, Toronto's center depth is staying a concern, but there's also a need at the defense.
Dreger suggests that if the Leafs sign Saad, it could limit their ability to make a more move at the trade deadline.
The financial aspect is also worth considering since Brandon Saad would still require a contract that takes up cap space and Toronto is already navigating salary cap constraints so they must be strategic with any additions they want to make.
Their main focus is on addressing their most pressing needs before the trade deadline rather than adding a depth winger with a production that has declined.
Brandon Saad will likely land with another team and the Maple Leafs appear to have other priorities as they prepare for the playoff push.
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 31 | 141 ANSWERS Insider Reveals Why the Maple Leafs Probably Won't Land Brandon Saad Do you think Brandon Saad will sign a contract of more or less than 3M$ in the NHL? | ||
| More | 49 | 34.8 % |
| Less | 92 | 65.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
