In this edition of Toronto Maple Leafs News & Rumors, I’ll cover the new faces on the team’s roster and some re-signings. Let’s dive into how these players might fit into the Maple Leafs’ plans for the upcoming season.
Item 1: Chris Tanev Grabs 6-Year Deal
On Monday, Chris Tanev inked a six-year, $27 million contract with the Maple Leafs, returning to his hometown of Toronto. At 34, this is likely his final contract. The veteran defenseman, who split last season between the Calgary Flames and Dallas Stars, notched two goals, 17 assists, and 207 blocked shots in 75 regular-season games. While Tanev may not contribute much offensively, his defensive prowess and experience are invaluable, making him a key player expected to log around 20 minutes per night.
Item 2: Joseph Woll Signs 3-Year Extension
Joseph Woll signed a three-year, $10.98 million extension with the Maple Leafs. He posted a 12-11-1 record with a 2.93 goals-against average (GAA) and a .907 save percentage (SV%) in 25 regular-season games last season. Woll also excelled in the playoffs before missing Game 7 against the Boston Bruins due to a back injury. Set to start the 2024-25 campaign, Woll is expected to share the net with Anthony Stolarz, possibly taking the lead if he stays healthy.
Item 3: Anthony Stolarz Secures 2-Year Pact
Stolarz signed a two-year, $5 million deal with Toronto. Last season, he posted a stellar 16-7-2 record with two shutouts, a 2.03 GAA, and a .925 SV% in 27 games with the Florida Panthers. His strong performance and ability to perform under pressure make him a valuable addition, providing stability in the goaltending department. Stolarz is projected to share the crease with Woll, offering the Maple Leafs a reliable goaltending duo for the 2024-25 season.
Item 4: Oliver Ekman-Larsson Signs a 4-Year Contract
Oliver Ekman-Larsson signed a four-year, $14 million contract with the Maple Leafs. He had a solid 2023-24 season with the Panthers, tallying nine goals, 32 points, and contributing significantly in the playoffs during Florida’s Stanley Cup victory. Ekman-Larsson brings veteran experience and defensive stability, likely playing on the second power-play unit and adding depth to the Maple Leafs’ blue line.
Item 5: Matt Murray Re-ups for 1 Year
After a long-term hip injury, Matt Murray signed a one-year, $875,000 contract with the Maple Leafs. Although he didn’t play in the NHL last season, he brings a winning pedigree as a two-time Stanley Cup champion. Currently considered an insurance policy, Murray could provide much-needed depth and reliability between the pipes if he regains his solid form.
Item 6: Jani Hakanpaa Gets 2-Year Contract
Jani Hakanpaa signed a two-year, $3 million deal with the Maple Leafs. Last season, he recorded two goals, 12 points, 196 hits, and 123 blocked shots in 64 games with the Dallas Stars before a knee injury. If healthy, Hakanpaa’s physicality and shot-blocking abilities will add grit and defensive reliability to the Maple Leafs’ lineup, especially valuable in high-pressure situations like the playoffs.