Toronto Maple Leafs top prospect won't sign entry-level contract
Photo credit: St. Cloud State University Athletics
The Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Veeti Miettinen won't sign an entry-level contract with the Leafs and should become a free agent over the summer.
Miettinen's NCAA journey ended a few days ago. The player, drafted by the Leafs in the 6th round of the 2020 draft, played the last four seasons with the St. Cloud Huskies. As he prepares to get to the next level, he shared the following post on Instagram:
"St. Cloud, thank you for the best 4 years of my life. Forever grateful for everyone who has been part of this ride, for the opportunity to wear the St. Cloud State jersey and play in front of the Husky fans. Memories and friendships will last forever🤞🏼❤️ #gohuskies"
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Maple Leafs to lose 6th round pick Veeti Miettinen to free agency.
It was confirmed by Kyle Cushman that the player plans to pursue his career in professional hockey, but won't join the Leafs. It'll be the Marlies or another organization.
"Veeti Miettinen won't return to St. Cloud State for a 5th season and will turn pro, he confirmed on IG.
He finishes his NCAA career with 53 goals and 118 points in 146 games. Didn't take a single penalty over 4 seasons.
TBD whether he'll join Marlies or go elsewhere."
Additional reports revealed that Miettinen doesn't plan on signing with the Leafs this summer, as he plans to become a free agent in August.
"Leafs' prospect Veeti Miettinen is turning Pro.
However, the current indication is it won't be with the Leafs. He would be a UFA on August 15th."
"If nothing comes to fruition with TOR here (appears possible) and he's more of an AHL contract candidate, I don't believe anything is stopping him. A few players signed AHL/ECHL deals elsewhere last year before coming off their drafted teams' reserve list."
"But if he's expecting to sift through ELC offers and no one in contention acquires his rights, his next destination will wait until August 15th."
Do you think Miettinen will play with the Maple Leafs?
Source: Hockey Patrol - Maple Leafs 2020 draft pick Veeti Miettinen won't sign in Toronto
Previously on PuckReporter
POLL |
6 AVRIL | 44 ANSWERS Toronto Maple Leafs top prospect won't sign entry-level contract Do you think Veeti Miettinen will leave the Toronto Maple Leafs organization? |
Yes | 35 | 79.5 % |
No | 9 | 20.5 % |
List of polls |
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