Dubas hints at Josh Ho-Sang potentially earning an NHL contract
Kyle Dubas held a media availability on Sunday in Toronto, covering everything from deadline plans to the possibility of moving games to the US to avoid playing games in an empty Scotiabank Arena. The Leafs GM also spoke about Josh Ho-Sang's selection for the Canadian Olympic team. He was very complimentary of Ho-Sang's work this season and what he's been able to accomplish with the Marlies.
When asked about his plans for the trade deadline, Dubas indicated that he was happy with the team's depth at the forward positions. This likely means that we won't see depth forwards being added at the deadline, but will promote from within the system.
Expanding on that, Dubas was asked about the possibility of Ho-Sang getting an NHL contract this season. He was a little bit more vague with this one, for obvious reasons. After all, what GM wants to tip his hand before negotiations even begin? He will continue to monitor Ho-Sang along with other players on AHL deals with the Marlies and make a decision on them closer to the deadline. Ho-Sang will return to the Marlies after the Olympics end, but may get his chance in the NHL this season if he keeps up his level of play and continues to put in the hard work.
I think this is an excellent test for Ho-Sang. The Leafs are really leaving his NHL future up to him. I believe he will earn himself a spot on the Leafs roster before the deadline and be a solid infusion of playmaking and transition play in the Leafs bottom 6 come playoff time.
