With July 1 fast approaching, the Toronto Maple Leafs are deep into the planning phase of a critical offseason. General manager (GM) Brad Treliving has major holes to fill, most notably on the wing if Mitch Marner leaves and in the middle six, where scoring depth has been an issue. There’s also work to do on the blue line—but some pieces are already in place. Beyond free agency and trade speculation, this week also brings a renewed spotlight on a Maple Leafs legend who might finally get his due.
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In this edition of Maple Leafs News & Rumours, three storylines are worth tracking as the offseason unfolds.
Item One: Could Andrew Mangiapane Be a Low-Risk, High-Upside Signing for the Maple Leafs?
According to The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta, the Maple Leafs are expected to show interest in Bolton, Ontario native Andrew Mangiapane when free agency opens on July 1. While he’s no longer the 35-goal breakout star he was with the Calgary Flames in 2021–22, Mangiapane could be an intriguing buy-low option for a team desperate for middle-six scoring help. This season, in a limited role with the Washington Capitals, he scored 14 goals and 28 points—modest numbers, but ones that suggest there’s still some value in his game.
The key here is cost. After two disappointing seasons post-breakout, Mangiapane likely won’t command a long-term deal or significant money. A one-year, prove-it contract in the $2–3 million range might make sense for both sides—Toronto gets a motivated player with a scoring history, and Mangiapane gets a chance to reboot his career in a system that could use his speed and work ethic. And if he doesn’t pan out? The contract wouldn’t be too heavy to bury.
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The Maple Leafs have plenty of offseason needs, and adding scoring depth without bloating the cap is near the top of the list. Mangiapane isn’t a splashy name, but he’s the kind of value bet that could pay off if used wisely, and he fits the type of hometown, team-friendly narrative that often appeals to both management and fans alike.
Item Two: It’s Time—Curtis Joseph Deserves His Hall of Fame Call
The debate around Curtis Joseph (Cujo) and the Hockey Hall of Fame has lingered far too long. If this year’s selection committee…
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