Maple Leafs Off-Season Addition Is Proving to Be the Steal of the Summer

There was a lot of excitement over Brad Treliving's additions to the Maple Leafs this season. First off, he added Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson on the back end, signed Anthony Stolarz, who became Toronto's best starter, and added veteran Max Pacioretty to bring in another veteran and some extra scoring.

But one signing that didn't get a lot of attention at the time was that of Steven Lorentz. Signing alongside Pacioretty to a PTO in September, they both played well enough to earn a roster spot.

He's been a lineup constant since game one of the season, and it's actually been such a wonderful addition to the lineup that it's a wonder why Florida never kept him around.

Not only is he a spark plug most nights but for a fourth line player provides a clutch factor that Toronto is going to need come playoff time.

He's also been in the conversation for the greatest tryout in team history, and easily trumps the likes of Noah Gregor and Zach Aston-Reese in terms of production and impact, and there is no doubt that the Maple Leafs are going to re-sign him this summer.

Playing in 79 games this season, Lorentz has 18 points (8G, 10A) which while not overly impressive, is one point off his career high and he already set his career-high in assists this season.

Where he really shines though is his energy and relentless hitting ability. 198 hits and 54 blocks show that Lorentz won't be shy about laying his body on the line for the sake of the team, and doing it in only 10:30 TOI.

He's the type of player that makes playoff teams better, and Lorentz will be a big reason that Toronto stays in tight games, and with his ability to score when it matters most, may be a key in making sure Toronto gets through not only the first round, but beyond.

So for Steven Lorentz, not only was it a dream come true to play for his childhood team, but the fact he's a vital part of a potential Stanley Cup run is nothing short of awesome and Toronto is sure glad they took a chance on him.