Maple Leafs Forward Reportedly Open to Trade as Uncertainty Grows
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Toronto Maple Leafs forward Calle Jarnkrok has been subject to heavy trade rumors recently, and a new report from David Pagnotta reveals that he might not be opposed to the idea at all.
While the rumors surrounding the Maple Leafs making a trade for either a top-six forward, or getting rid of one of their current players are aplenty, it seems that everything so far has been hearsay at most.
Linked to everyone from Nazem Kadri, Brayden Schenn, Jared McCann, and Jordan Kyrou, not to mention Erik Karlsson and Dougie Hamilton as well, it seems that Brad Treliving has the chance to really make an impact.
Calle Jarnkrok open to being traded in stunning reveal
However he can also make just as equal of one by trading Calle Jarnkrok and David Kampf, opening up roster and much needed cap space. Regarding Jarnkrok, he's been named as a likely candidate to be traded given his age, cheap contract and veteran experience.
But we haven't heard much from Toronto besides them wanting to get rid of him, but thanks to David Pagnotta, we have some more clarity.
According to the insider, the Maple Leafs have approached Jarnkrok regarding a deal; and he seems open to it:
The Leafs had a discussion with Calle Jarnkrok; I don't think he's asked for a trade, but I don't think he would object to one given the circumstances.
While Jarnkrok hasn't asked to leave, the fact he's open to a deal means that not only is he being a team player by proxy; giving the team a chance to add someone who fits in better, but he knows that he could find more playing time elsewhere.
Jarnkrok out, but who comes in?
This is huge for Brad Treliving knowing that he is able to ditch Jarnkrok for assets and open up a roster spot for someone else like a McCann or even a potential signing like Jack Roslovic.
Jarnkrok, 33, only skated in 19 games for the Maple Leafs due to recovery from sports hernia surgery. He registered seven points (1 goal, 6 assists) but was very quiet in the playoffs, and it was clear he didn't gel with Craig Berube's system.
It's surprising that no one has been interested in the veteran however, given that he's on an extremely cheap contract, has the experience and leadership and is looking to bounce back after a career roadblock.
Toronto will likely replace him with Roslovic or potentially Luke Kunin, who plays much more similar to Jarnkrok overall. It's not a bad upgrade, as they get younger and add that DNA change they desire.
It's great to finally have some news on Calle Jarnkrok's future; a future that seemingly won't be with Toronto much longer.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 14 | 2111 ANSWERS Maple Leafs Forward Reportedly Open to Trade as Uncertainty Grows Do you think Calle Jarnkrok will end up being traded by the Maple Leafs? | ||
| Yes | 1920 | 91 % |
| No | 191 | 9 % |
| List of polls | ||