The Toronto Maple Leafs are making headlines as the NHL offseason gains momentum. Here's a look at some of the latest buzz surrounding the team.
Leafs Interested in Andrew Mangiapane
The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly interested in pursuing Washington Capitals winger Andrew Mangiapane when free agency opens on July 1st. According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, the Seattle Kraken are also in the mix. Nick Alberga of Sportnet confirmed the Leafs' interest, pointing out Mangiapane's past relationship with current Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving. Treliving drafted Mangiapane when he was with the Calgary Flames in 2015.
Mangiapane, a native of Bolton, Ontario, has had a somewhat inconsistent NHL career. He had a career year in 2021-22 with the Flames, scoring 35 goals and 55 points. However, after being traded to the Capitals this past season, his production dipped to just 28 points in 81 games. Despite the down year, Mangiapane is known as a versatile middle-six winger with a scoring touch and is considered a valuable penalty killer, having recorded at least one shorthanded point in each of the last five seasons. He is also known for playing bigger than his 5-foot-10 frame.
The Leafs are looking to add scoring depth to their bottom six, and Mangiapane could be a good fit. His familiarity with Treliving could give Toronto an edge in negotiations. Some analysts project Mangiapane to command a two-year deal worth around $3.9 million per season.
Curtis Joseph's Hall of Fame Case
The Hockey Hall of Fame is set to announce its newest class, and the candidacy of former Maple Leafs goaltender Curtis Joseph, affectionately known as "Cujo," is once again a topic of debate. Joseph, who played five seasons in Toronto, has a compelling case for induction. He ranks seventh all-time in NHL wins with 454 and boasts the most wins and saves of any goaltender not currently in the Hall of Fame.
Joseph's career spanned 19 seasons, during which he played for six different teams. While he never won a Stanley Cup or a Vezina Trophy, he consistently performed at a high level and was a top-five finisher in Vezina Trophy voting five times. He also finished fourth in Hart Trophy voting in 1999 while with the Leafs. His longevity and impressive statistics make him a strong contender, though some argue that his lack of major individual awards hurts his chances. The question for voters is whether to prioritize longevity and accumulated stats or peak performance and accolades. Joseph was inducted into the St. Louis Blues Hall of Fame on January 24, 2025.
Carlo Colaiacovo: A Look Back
Carlo Colaiacovo, a Toronto native, was drafted 17th overall by the Maple Leafs in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. Expectations were high for the young defenseman, but his time with the Leafs was marked by injuries and inconsistency. Colaiacovo's career was unfortunately riddled with injuries, including a major concussion in 2006 and multiple knee surgeries.
Colaiacovo was known for his offensive ability and puck-moving skills. He had a solid season with the St. Louis Blues in 2009-10, recording a career-high 32 points. Today, Colaiacovo is a co-host on TSN 1050 radio in Toronto.
