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Former Maple Leaf set for unique return this winter
Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Former Toronto Maple Leafs fan favorite Leo Komarov is making his return to pro hockey in 2025-26 as part of HC Davos as they play for the Spengler Cup.
One of the more under appreciated pro hockey tournaments in the world is the Spengler Cup, an even based in Davos, Switzerland that often sees those who aren't in the NHL and playing overseas take part in an international competition.
Often dominated by both Canada and the host team HC Davos, the Spengler this year is set to feature former NHL players such as Filip Zadina, Adam Tambellini and Joakim Nordstrom, but there's one late addition to the mix.
Leo Komarov returns to pro hockey with HC Davos
It was revealed that former Maple Leafs forward and current free agent Leo Komarov would be joining Davos for the tournament and could end up playing himself into a deal.
Davos announced the decision on Saturday, with the 38-year old getting his first taste of pro hockey this season:
The HCD complements its squad for the 97th Spengler Cup with the two Finns Leo Komarov and Niko Huuhtanen.
The 38-year-old Komarov was under contract with IFK Helsinki in the highest Finnish league until last season and is currently without a contract.
The long-time NHL professional brings a lot of international experience and won both Olympic gold and world championship titles with Finland. Komarov trained with the team in the past few days.
The 38-year-old Komarov was under contract with IFK Helsinki in the highest Finnish league until last season and is currently without a contract.
The long-time NHL professional brings a lot of international experience and won both Olympic gold and world championship titles with Finland. Komarov trained with the team in the past few days.
Komarov has spent the last two seasons playing for IFK Helsinki in the SM-Liiga, where he put up 23 points in 55 games (9 goals, 14 assists) to go along with a plus-two and 75 PIM.
He last played in the NHL during the 2021-22 season with the New York Islanders where he had no points and two PIM in one game.
He is best known for his time spent with the Maple Leafs, where he became a fan favorite due to his tenacity, clutch scoring ability, and personality. In 327 games with the club he registered 122 points (52 goals, 70 assists), a minus-seven, and 138 PIM.
This could lead to something down the line for Komarov, as he could end up signing a deal with Davos, another team overseas, or even potentially find his way back to the NHL with a strong showing.
But it's great to see Leo Komarov back on the ice, where he always seems to find some way to entertain the fans and impact the game one way or another.