Insight into Jani Hakanapaa's contract situation sheds more light on crumbling deal

When the Toronto Maple Leafs signed Jani Hakanpaa, they expected a 6'7 defenseman to patrol their blueline; but all they got was drama and now one insider has more information.

Many had doubts when the Toronto Maple Leafs signed free agent Jani Hakanpaa to a 2-year $3M deal this offseason, that he would not only play for the team but that he would even play at all. It didn't stop the Maple Leafs from offering him a contract, which as of today is still not yet official pending a physical.

One NHL insider believes that while the Maple Leafs are taking it slow in regards to their potential defenseman, Hakanpaa himself feels like he can go.

''He believes he can play on his knee. But I don't know that there's unanimity in that opinion from those that are looking at his medical file and just concerns that, essentially, he's got bone-on-bone. It's not a situation that could be terribly comfortable.'' - Chris Johnston on The CJ Show

Yikes. As much as I admire the desire to play and try and make an impact, it's going to be very hard on not only the team but on Hakanpaa's body to put in that rigorous work day in and day out. The risk may not be worth the potential reward, something else Johnston noted.

''I think it really comes down to the medical opinion, how much risk the organization is willing to take. But Hakanpaa certainly seems intent on continuing his career, feels that maybe he needs some time off but will be able to play, ultimately, on that knee.''

It remains to be seen if this situation will resolve itself peacefully and amicably, or if it's too far gone from both sides and they'd rather fold than go all in when it comes to the defenseman.

Previously on MapleLeafsLatest

30 years ago today, Maple Leafs icon Doug Gilmour given the reigns

What William Nylander's nickname should be: NHL Analyst gives his opinions

6'5 defenseman hopes to make Maple Leafs roster after 8-year gap

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18 AOUT \| 69 ANSWERS Insight into Jani Hakanapaa's contract situation sheds more light on crumbling deal Should Toronto give up on Jani Hakanpaa?
Yes	37	53.6 %
No	22	31.9 %
Restructure deal	7	10.1 %
Sign and trade immediately	3	4.3 %
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