Insider provides surprising Matt Murray update just 1 day before free agency
Today is the last day for players to be placed on waivers for the purpose of buyout and, so far, Matt Murray has escaped being bought out. That isn't to say that he won't be, but according to TSN's Chris Johnston it's unlikely.
On Insider Trading, Johnston addressed Murray and the buyout window, and had a surprising piece of information regarding the 2-time Stanley Cup Champ. "There is a second buyout window, so there may be some wiggle room there, but at this point, Brad Treliving wants to keep 3 goalies and that includes Joseph Woll, Ilya Samsonov and Murray in the crease."
Given that Woll is no longer waivers exempt, the Leafs would have to keep all three on the NHL roster or take the risk of losing Woll on waivers, something that they do not want to do. By having all of them on the roster, it takes away one of their additional roster spots for an extra forward or defenseman, meaning the Leafs will have to play cap gymnastics all season again.
From an outsider's perspective, I believe the Leafs are holding onto Murray right now as somewhat of an insurance policy in case a deal with Samsonov can't be reached or his ask is too high. Should the Leafs reach a deal with Samsonov, I would think that Murray will be on his way out during the 2nd buyout window, or via trade before training camp.
The other possibility that exists here is that the Leafs want Murray to play some games and build up his value before trading him in-season. Honestly, this is purely speculative, but it does make some sense.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 30 | 318 ANSWERS Insider provides surprising Matt Murray update just 1 day before free agency Will Matt Murray still be a Leaf on opening night? | ||
| Yes | 59 | 18.6 % |
| No | 259 | 81.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
