Elliotte Friedman's Latest Comments Reignite Maple Leafs' Top-Line Winger Rumors
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman finally broke the radio silence regarding Jack Roslovic as he believes the Maple Leafs are still looking at him as top-line option.
headlines this offseason were dominated by the question of whether or not the Toronto Maple Leafs were going to make a big splash either through free agency or the trade market to make up for the loss of Mitch Marner.
It's been months and we have only seen a few dips in the water as opposed to a full-on dive headfirst into a deal, and while it's better to play it safe; they will need to figure out something if they have scoring issues.
One name who has been attached to the hip this summer at least regarding a potential deal is Jack Roslovic, who continues to be a free agent and is the top name still on the market.
It's puzzling why he hasn't signed despite tons of apparent offers, and it could be that he is waiting for the Maple Leafs to figure out their cap and roster situation before committing.
What Elliotte Friedman Said About the Maple Leafs' Search for a Top-Line Winger
NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman believes that once they get that sorted out, a potential Roslovic sighting could be near.
Appearing on the Donnie and Dhali Show, Friedman explained that the Maple Leafs have had a lot of interest in Roslovic, and envision him as someone who can play alongside captain Auston Matthews:
A guy like Jack Roslovic, I think Toronto was looking at him...potentially as a winger on the number one line
That would certainly bring a new dynamic to the team, and with the previous chemistry the two have; playing together with the US National Development Team, Toronto could benefit massively.
Why Toronto Still Has Options to Upgrade Their First Line
However with a logjam already blocking potential names like Easton Cowan from making the team, it's going to be hard to see the team bring in Roslovic without getting rid of someone like David Kampf first.
It's unlikely but at this point a buyout might be Toronto's best option given they have enough cap space to deal with the money down the line, and are desperate for room and Kampf needs to move on anyhow.
However they also don't need to leap on a Roslovic deal either. Max Domi has gotten a lot of attention due to his history with Matthews and needing to break out himself.
We also have heard that Nick Robertson, Jarnkrok, and even Cowan could all potentially earn first-line minutes depending on the situation but thankfully Roslovic can at least move up and down the lineup.
Another option they have is the trade market however unless they are able to strike a deal that involves a solid NHL player and their last first-round pick; it's going to be really tough.
So while we wait to see Roslovic's decision, Brad Treliving best have his priorities figured out because it seems like it's what's driving the free agent's hesitation.
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