Leafs Must Prioritize Stability Over McDavid’s Allure
The allure of Connor McDavid, often hailed as a generational talent, is undeniable. His name is frequently linked to the greats of hockey history, such as Sidney Crosby and Wayne Gretzky. As the Toronto Maple Leafs look toward the future, the question arises: Can they do better than the Edmonton Oilers star when free agency opens next year? The answer is a resounding no. However, the real question is whether the Leafs should risk their immediate success by banking on a potential McDavid signing.
The Risks of Waiting for McDavid
While the prospect of adding a player of McDavid’s caliber is enticing, the Maple Leafs must avoid putting all their free agency hopes in one basket. With key players like Auston Matthews, Easton Cowan, William Nylander, Anthony Stolarz, and Morgan Rielly already on the roster, focusing solely on McDavid could jeopardize their current season.
McDavid, at 28 years old and weighing 194 pounds, has amassed an astonishing 1,082 career points in 712 regular-season games and 150 points in 96 playoff games. These impressive statistics demonstrate his unparalleled skill and productivity. However, the Leafs cannot allow the dream of signing a hometown hero to overshadow their need to secure essential contracts for their current roster.
Stolarz and Maccelli: Immediate Priorities
Both Stolarz and Matias Maccelli are in the final years of their contracts, and the Leafs have expressed interest in extending Stolarz. Currently earning $2.5 million, his deal expires next summer. With the recent three-year, $5.83 million per year contract signed by Spencer Knight of the Chicago Blackhawks serving as a benchmark, Stolarz’s next contract could be significantly higher.
Elliotte Friedman noted that Stolarz has established himself as a reliable option in goal, whether as a 1A or a full-fledged starter. Given his performance in the past two seasons, which far surpasses Knight’s, it’s reasonable to anticipate that Stolarz will seek a deal starting in the $6 million range. His stats from last season—21 wins, a 2.14 goals against average (GAA), and a .926 save percentage (SV%)—position him well for an increase.
On the other hand, Maccelli finds himself with an opportunity to shine during training camp, especially with Max Domi sidelined. Despite a lackluster previous season, where he recorded only 18 points in 55 games, a resurgence to the 50-60 point range this year will make him a prime candidate for a raise. As he enters restricted free agency after his $3.425 million deal expires, Maccelli could be looking at a new contract in the $4-6 million range if he performs well.
Navigating the Salary Cap
With approximately $25 million available in cap space, the Leafs could theoretically accommodate both players’ contracts. However, if McDavid remains unsigned heading into the season, the team risks delaying negotiations with either Stolarz or Maccelli until after free agency opens, potentially compromising their roster.
The flexibility at the trade deadline is also critical for the Maple Leafs. To contend for the Stanley Cup this season, they must retain the capability to acquire both rental players and long-term investments. Pursuing McDavid could restrict their ability to make necessary moves, forcing them to rely solely on short-term solutions.
Focus on the Here and Now
Ultimately, the Leafs’ aspirations of adding McDavid must take a back seat to the immediate needs of their roster. Winning this season and securing contracts for players who contribute to both short- and long-term success should be the primary focus. As the season progresses, the organization can evaluate its position and make strategic decisions regarding McDavid once the dust settles.
In the world of professional sports, patience is a virtue, and for the Maple Leafs, securing their current talent while keeping an eye on the future is the path to a balanced and successful championship pursuit.
