Maple Leafs Could Still Make Move for Jani Hakanpaa After Unexpected Development
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
Jani Hakanpaa's name has been thrown around minimally recently, but a new update out of Finland shows not only is he healthy; but is looking to make a comeback.
Last summer, the Maple Leafs signed Jani Hakanpaa even though there were concerns about his injury status and whether or not he can stand up to the rigor of an NHL season.
He only managed to skate in two games for the team, as well as two games for the Marlies before dealing with lingering knee issues, and though he was selected to Team Finland for the 4 Nations, he couldn't suit up.
Hakanpaa Healthy? Stunning Update Regarding Finnish Defender
It looked like Hakanpaa's career was winding down and injuries were taking their toll. However, a new update coming out of Finland shows that not only is Hakanpaa healthy and ready to make a comeback; he's been healthy for a while.
Speaking to NHL Suomi; a Finnish news site focusing on NHL hockey players out of the country, had a chance to catch up with Hakanpaa ahead of a charity game and he explained how he's feeling after such a rough season:
In a good mood. The first game of the season is on Friday. A charity game in Raksila. The doctors gave me the green light to play in the playoffs. My leg was in good shape and I was able to train well. That was a really positive sign for the future.
It also looks like Hakanpaa has some unfinished business with the Maple Leafs and would like to continue there if there's room left for him:
The intention would be to continue there. Now let's see how we can get the contract done.
Even if Hakanpaa were to sign a deal for the league minimum, that would give Toronto even more bodies to work with, but also create an even bigger logjam for the Maple Leafs on their back end.
Why Jani Hakanpaa's Update Is Good For Him and Bad For Toronto
Hakanpaa, 33, only skated in two games for Toronto last year, registering no points. He was signed to add a hulking presence to the team, however that wasn't meant to be.
Brad Treliving admitted it wasn't his savviest move, but there is hope that if he is healthy and signed very very cheaply then he could add some solid depth.
But where would he even fit?
Not only is Toronto's back end pretty much set, the team also has guys like Henry Thrun, Dakota Mermis, Ryan McCleary, John Prokop and William Villeneuve either all either NHL-experience or ready to come up; so he'd be a lower depth option for sure.
The main thing though is that he's healthy and can continue his career. It's always unfortunate to see a player lose their future due to injuries, and if he can even continue in a smaller role for the next couple of years, at least he should be able to decide to leave on his own terms.
So great news for Jani Hakanpaa, but for the Maple Leafs, if he wants to come back; they have some serious thinking to do.
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