Major turn of events confirmed by insider for Jani Hakanpaa and the Toronto Maple Leafs
An NHL insider isn't feeling too optimistic about seeing Jani Hakanpaa in a Toronto Maple Leafs jersey, as the situation has been dragging on for too long.
The uncertainty around Jani Hakanpaa's potential deal with the Leafs continues to grow, making it seem less likely that the big Finnish defenseman will join the team. As time passes without a decision, doubts are increasing.
NHL insider Chris Johnston recently discussed the situation on TSN 1050's "First Up," explaining that Hakanpaa hasn't officially signed with the Leafs due to ongoing concerns about his knee health. While Hakanpaa believes he's ready to play, differing medical opinions have created uncertainty about his future with the team.
Johnston elaborated on the situation, which isn't encouraging for Leafs fans.
Though there's still time before training camp, the chances of Hakanpaa becoming a Maple Leaf are dwindling. The delay in signing a deal indicates that his health issues are the main concern, and the Leafs seem to be waiting for a clean bill of health before moving forward.
Hakanpaa's knee issues led the Dallas Stars to part ways with him, allowing him to enter free agency. Initially, Toronto's medical team seemed to approve further negotiations, but it now appears they've discovered the same concerns that led the Stars to let him go, leading to the current uncertainty.
Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving briefly addressed the situation, saying the team is "working through it" and hopes for a resolution soon. Treliving's comments came on the same day Auston Matthews was announced as the new team captain.
With training camp and preseason games approaching, the Leafs are under pressure to resolve this quickly. If Hakanpaa is deemed unfit to play, they'll need to explore other options. The free-agent market has thinned out, leaving few right-handed defensemen available. Additionally, the decision on Hakanpaa will impact Toronto's salary cap strategy, as they're close to the limit and still need to address Nick Robertson's contract.
Hakanpaa was a fourth-round draft pick by the St. Louis Blues in 2010 and has played in 288 career games. Last season, he played in 64 games with the Dallas Stars, scoring two goals and 10 assists for 12 points, and finishing with a solid +10 rating, proving his value as a shutdown defenseman-when healthy.
Source: NHL.comJani Hakanpaa Stats
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27 AOUT | 55 ANSWERS Major turn of events confirmed by insider for Jani Hakanpaa and the Toronto Maple Leafs Will Jani Hakanpaa ever play for the Toronto Maple Leafs? | ||
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