17 Apr 2017 15:49:46
Just wondering could the Toronto Maple Leafs improve their defence via free agency as opposed to trading . Karl alzner is very attainable and would fit in well with the Leafs defencive core maybe then leafs could make a serious run at Kevin Shattenkirk . These two acquisitions would be costly monetarily but with some big names coming off the books this year still leaves The Mapleleaf's with ample cap space. Both players are under the age of 30
And they could continue their youth movement.

1.) 17 Apr 2017
17 Apr 2017 17:36:38
Would prefer the Leafs to target D - M. Stone.

2.) 17 Apr 2017
17 Apr 2017 20:42:29
Stone would be a good target but multiple defenceman are needed.

3.) 17 Apr 2017
17 Apr 2017 21:22:47
We need to get RHD, we are fine on the left. Alzner is a LHD

I doubt the Leafs want to pay Shattenkirk's price over the term he will ask for. Probably 7M+/ yr over 7 years. His playoff numbers are not great, but reasonable. Maybe 6 M over 5 years.

I think with "patience" being the motto, the draft is the best way to go.

4.) 17 Apr 2017
17 Apr 2017 21:52:51
I agree and patience should be the motto. Signing 1 solid RHD in free agency can allow a prospect to grow properly for a few years.

Assuming the Leafs draft Foote or Timmins in the 1st, both of those players will probably need 2 or 3 years to be NHL ready anyways.

On the left side, unless the Leafs trade Gardiner, they are good for LHD prospects and players at this time. Nielsen should be up next year.

5.) 18 Apr 2017
18 Apr 2017 10:49:11
I'm all for getting Alzner and having 3 very good LHD to even out our lines (Washington-esque), but Shattenkirk is a defensive liability. Priority should be shutdown guys.

6.) 18 Apr 2017
18 Apr 2017 14:54:57
Leafs are really only one top 4, RHD away from a decent corp. A big, shutdown type ala Stone (via free agency) or Manson (via trade) to play with Reilly. Gardiner - Zaitsev seem to be a good pairing. Carrick may develop into a top 4 but he is not there yet. Makes a good 3rd pairing with Dermott or Neilson (whoever wins it in camp) that can play protected minutes. A veteran to help tutor the kids would be nice (Beiksa, Polak, Hunwick? ) in the #7 spot unless Marincin ups his game.

7.) 18 Apr 2017
18 Apr 2017 19:04:55
No thanks for alzner and shattenkirk. too much money for too little. alzner struggles offensively and shattenkirk struggles defensively. 2 solid 2 way guys would fit better. let someone else pay a kings ransom.

8.) 19 Apr 2017
19 Apr 2017 14:41:18
Bowser

If the leafs try to sign Alzner it's not for his offence cause we have no problem offensively but he is a good defensive defence men we need.