Maple Leafs Eyeing Star Forward in Free Agency
The Toronto Maple Leafs, one of the NHL’s top teams, are expected to be active in free agency, particularly if they lose key players.
With Mitch Marner and John Tavares set to become free agents, Toronto may need to find high-level replacements should they fail to secure new deals. According to NHL insiders Jonas Siegel and James Mirtle of The Athletic, one potential target could be Patrick Kane.
“If Marner departs, William Nylander could take on a full-time top-line role,” their report states. “However, even if Nylander continues playing separately from Auston Matthews, losing Marner would require the addition of another top-six winger, either through free agency or trade…
“One option could be Kane, who was Matthews’ childhood idol,” they added. “Though he’s 36 and has some injury concerns, he could be a great value signing if he remains healthy. His current cap hit is $4 million, with an additional $2.5 million in performance bonuses, and he has been highly effective for the Detroit Red Wings down the stretch.”
A future Hall of Famer, Kane is nearing the final years of his career but remains a strong offensive presence. He would also be a more affordable alternative to Marner while still providing quality production. This season, he has 19 goals and 33 assists, totaling 52 points in 63 games.
Kane’s Impact in Detroit
Kane has spent the past two seasons with the Red Wings, where he has emerged as a team leader. Despite his three Stanley Cups and eventual Hall of Fame induction, Detroit head coach Todd McLellan has been impressed by his relentless work ethic.
“He still loves the game,” McLellan said. “He comes to the rink eager to play, wants the puck, and wants to make plays. Not everything goes perfectly, but his excitement never fades. He could easily step away, knowing he’s secured his legacy, but the hunger remains.”
Kane, a nine-time NHL All-Star and 2016 Hart Trophy winner, continues to prove his value on the ice.
Tavares Praises Matthews’ Leadership
Auston Matthews, the Maple Leafs’ captain, remains one of the NHL’s elite goal scorers. His impact extends beyond offense, earning high praise from teammate John Tavares.
“We all know how talented he is offensively,” Tavares said. “But it’s also his hockey IQ, his defensive reads, and how he uses his body to create plays. He’s a leader in every sense of the word.”
This season, Tavares has recorded 35 goals and 44 assists for 69 points in 67 games.
