The 2024 free agent signing period for UFAs was akin to the running of the bulls in Pamplona; it was hazardous with limited upside and significant risk. The potential rewards are often minimal, while the chance of negative outcomes is very real.
In the National Hockey League, it`s the general managers who must confront this danger head-on and take those calculated risks. Free agency is arguably the only time of year we see them deviate from their typically composed demeanor and engage actively in the market.
And indeed, 2024 proved to be challenging for many teams. Without recounting every detail, Nashville faced difficulties after signing players like Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, and Brady Skjei to large deals that didn`t meet expectations, contributing to a tough season finish. Elias Lindholm also struggled in Boston after securing his significant contract. While a few signings performed roughly as anticipated – Jake DeBrusk and Chandler Stephenson come to mind – the only major signing that truly delivered was Jake Guentzel, who scored 41 goals for Tampa Bay.
Teams are drawn to the possibility of these success stories, but the market is full of potential pitfalls. This is why it`s often more prudent to avoid the frenzy and observe from a distance.
With this perspective in mind, this article outlines what the Toronto Maple Leafs should consider doing when free agency officially opens on July 1st.Step 1: Identify Opportunities for Value
Each year, a significant portion of successful UFA signings are players acquired for salaries ranging from the league minimum up to around $1.5 million, who then become genuine contributors to their teams.
Last season, for instance, the Boston Bruins signed Cole Koepke for the league minimum. He went on to play 73 games, scoring 10 goals, ranking second among team forwards in hits, and finished with a +1 rating on a team that ended with a -50 goal differential. That level of contribution is certainly welcome on a fourth line, wouldn`t you agree?
Koepke is available again and shouldn`t command a much higher salary than last year. However, the focus should also be on identifying potential breakout players for the upcoming season who just need a chance. For many years, the Leafs` fourth line lacked a clear identity. While it improved significantly defensively this past season, it still lacked physical presence and offensive threat as a unit.
Considering this, what kind of identity would benefit that fourth line? Mikey Eyssimont is an interesting player to consider. He`s not afraid to engage physically (at least willing to drop the gloves), and he may possess more offensive potential than he`s demonstrated in the league so far. He`s also a very good skater.
There is significant value to be found within this lower salary range of the free agent market.
Duncan Priestley