This summer, the Toronto Maple Leafs are set to focus on acquiring defensemen during free agency, with three specific players on their radar.
When evaluating the Maple Leafs’ needs, defense stands out as their top priority. Although secondary scoring and goaltending are also crucial areas for improvement, bolstering the defense through free agency is the most straightforward path to enhance the team. Unlike the elusive quest for a top-tier goalie, which likely requires a trade, the Leafs can easily upgrade their defense by signing key free agents, requiring only financial commitment and negotiation.
With the current dearth of elite goalies in free agency, signing top defensemen presents the quickest way to strengthen the team. As the Leafs aim to break their eight-year playoff streak and push towards the Stanley Cup Finals, adding solid defensive players could be the game-changer they need.
Here are the three free-agent defensemen the Toronto Maple Leafs should target this offseason:
Nikita Zadorov
If the Leafs can only secure one marquee free-agent defenseman this summer, Nikita Zadorov should be their top choice. Familiar to GM Brad Treliving, who has signed him twice before, Zadorov’s value has soared this season, making a team-friendly deal unlikely. At 6-foot-6 and 235 pounds, Zadorov brings the physical presence the Leafs have lacked. Despite his limited offensive contributions, his playoff performance with four goals and eight points in 13 games for the Vancouver Canucks highlights his ability to impact games. Signing Zadorov to a six or seven-year contract could provide the Leafs with the defensive stability they need.
Dylan DeMelo
Dylan DeMelo, a native of London, Ontario, could be a valuable middle-pair defenseman for the Leafs. His local roots and familiarity with the region, having played his entire OHL career with the Mississauga Steelheads, make him a fitting choice. DeMelo offers reliable defensive depth and the potential to bolster the second power-play unit, an area where the Leafs struggled last season. His ability to block shots, play physically, and contribute offensively makes him a well-rounded addition. Coming off a $3M AAV contract, DeMelo’s next deal could be around $5M AAV, but the Leafs should be cautious not to overspend.
Chris Tanev
Chris Tanev, known for his physical play and defensive reliability, would be an excellent fit for the Leafs. Having impressed in the playoffs with the Dallas Stars, Tanev’s shot-blocking and hard-hitting style make him an asset in critical situations. His reputation for giving maximum effort on every shift contrasts with the perceived laziness in the Leafs’ identity. At 34, this could be Tanev’s last significant NHL contract, and joining a potential Stanley Cup contender like Toronto might appeal to him, especially given his local ties. Tanev’s experience in Canadian markets should prepare him well for the pressures of playing in Toronto.
As the Leafs aim to build on their playoff streak and make a deeper postseason run, targeting these three defensemen in free agency could provide the defensive upgrades necessary for success. Each player brings unique strengths that could address the team’s most pressing needs, helping the Maple Leafs to finally reach their full potential.