Dylan DeMelo's signing complicates things for the Leafs ahead of free agency
Photo credit: Alexander James
In a significant development on the NHL scene, the Winnipeg Jets have sealed a hefty contract with defenseman Dylan DeMelo.
This Tuesday agreement introduces a robust $4.9M cap hit for the next four seasons, potentially setting a new benchmark for upcoming UFA defensemen negotiations, particularly affecting the Toronto Maple Leafs' strategy.
According to TSN's Chris Johnston, the ink is dry on DeMelo's extension, embedding him further into the Jets' defensive lineup with a deal that not only retains a key player but also sends ripples through the free agent market. This maneuver by the Jets could notably influence the Maple Leafs' financial flexibility and strategic decisions.
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The direct impact on the Maple Leafs is profound. DeMelo's deal removes a sought-after defenseman from the free agent pool, consequently inflating the market value of remaining UFA defensemen. With DeMelo's cap figure now set, it's expected that other defensemen linked to the Maple Leafs, such as Nikita Zadorov, Brett Pesce, Chris Tanev, and Brandon Montour, will see their potential contracts ranging between $5M and $7.25M. This expectation stems partly from both the DeMelo and Filip Hronek deals adjusting market valuations.
Among the affected players, Montour has expressed a desire to stay in Florida, Tanev is looking for a four-year deal as he moves into his mid-30s, and Pesce is rumored to be moving to New Jersey. This scenario leaves Zadorov as a primary target for the Leafs, with his asking price rumored to hover around $6M per season over six years.
With a budget of just under $20M for this summer, primarily earmarked for bolstering their defense, the Leafs might face tough decisions. They are also considering re-signing forwards Max Domi and Tyler Bertuzzi, though cap constraints might limit them to choosing just one. The hefty cap hit from DeMelo's new deal could force the Leafs to explore trade options for a more affordable defensive upgrade, or potentially limit them to signing only one high-profile UFA defenseman.
As free agency opens next Monday, the Maple Leafs will need to navigate these financial and strategic challenges carefully. Adjustments and savvy management will be crucial to align their roster aspirations with the realities of the NHL's cap environment.
Previously on MapleLeafsLatest
| POLL |
25 JUIN | 152 ANSWERS Dylan DeMelo's signing complicates things for the Leafs ahead of free agency How many of the top UFA defenseman will the Leafs sign this summer? |
| None | 25 | 16.4 % |
| One | 50 | 32.9 % |
| Two | 65 | 42.8 % |
| More than two | 12 | 7.9 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
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