Analyst Presses Former 50-Point Forward to Sign with the Maple Leafs.

Kevin Labanc is a free agency forward who the Toronto Maple Leafs should sign, according to NHL analyst James Reeve of TheLeafsNation.

Following the conclusion of a four-year, $18.9 million contract with the San Jose Sharks, Labanc became a free agent on July 1. Despite the fact that the forward struggled with injuries last season, finishing with just 9 points in 46 games, Reeve thinks Labanc would be a good fit in Toronto, especially because the Maple Leafs did not sign another forward in free agency.

“Well, to start, the team probably needs to add someone to replace the Nick Robertson-sized void on the roster. The 22-year-old is reportedly searching for a new opportunity after finding it difficult to establish himself on the squad. Robertson is primarily a left winger, but he has lined up on the right fairly frequently due to injuries and changes made by former head coach Sheldon Keefe. “Losing a gifted winger, in the event that the Leafs give in and grant his trade request prior to the in-season contract signing deadline,” Reeve wrote.
Reeve said, “Aside from Robertson, the Leafs’ right side could use more strength. Calle Järnkrok and Ryan Reaves were some of the players to feature on that side behind stars Mitch Marner and William Nylander, and they combined for 14 goals last season.” The team receives exactly zero offensive upside from Reaves, and Järnkrok—who has his own offensive limitations—might be a better fit at center. Therefore, it would be an improvement to add Labanc, who could improve the team’s goal total by at least fifteen.