Insider links pair of Canucks free agents to the Toronto Maple Leafs

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Cooper Godin
May 24, 2024 (10:46)

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The National Hockey League's free agent market is set to open in 38 days as teams no longer in the Stanley Cup Playoffs have shifted their focus to making their rosters better for the 2024-25 campaign.

One team that's going to be especially interesting to keep an eye on at the draft and in free agency is the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Maple Leafs had yet another early exit in the Stanley Cup Playoffs and changes are coming to their roster, whether it be through trading a member of their 'Core 4' and/or a big free agent signing.

However, the Maple Leafs are also focused on improving their depth, which is key for any team looking to make a deep playoff run. You need to have all four lines and three d-pairings rolling in order to have a chance at hoisting the greatest trophy in all of sports.

With that said, it appears that the Maple Leafs have their eyes on a pair of Vancouver Canucks who are pending unrestricted free agents, according to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period. Pagnotta is reporting that the Maple Leafs may target forward Dakota Joshua and defenceman Nikita Zadorov this summer, if they hit the open market on Canada Day.

The Maple Leafs were one of a handful of teams that were in on Nikita Zadorov before he was traded to the Vancouver Canucks. Zadorov's former General Manager, Brad Treliving, is in charge in Toronto and could to bring the rugged blueliner to the Maple Leafs. However, the Canucks will make a big push to re-sign Zadorov, who is reportedly prioritizing term over money on his next contract.

Dakota Joshua is another free agent Patrik Allvin is hoping to keep next season, but after his breakout campaign, the 28-year-old may want to test the open market to see how much he could receive. Toronto would be a good fit for Joshua, if he leaves the Canucks. He's the perfect third line players - contributes offensively and brings plenty of physicality night in, night out. At the most important time of the year - the Stanley Cup Playoffs - everyone needs a player like Dakota Joshua.

If the Canucks are unable to keep Nikita Zadorov and Dakota Joshua, who do you think will be a better fit for the Toronto Maple Leafs? Let us know your thoughts in the poll below!