Leafs top defensive prospect expected to travel to Toronto this week just in time for the playoffs
In the third round of the 2020 draft, the Leafs selected Topi Niemela 64th overall. In May of last year, the Leafs signed Niemela to a 3-year entry-level contract that will kick in when he joins the Marlies later this week.
Niemela will be joining the Marlies for the rest of the regular season and playoffs after he and his Karpat team in the Finnish Elite League were eliminated from the playoffs. This was Niemela's fourth season with Karpat and in 58 games he produced 8 goals and 18 points, which was certainly a decrease in production from last season's 32 points in 48 games. However, while his offensive production slipped, Niemela's defensive play was much better than it was last season.
Niemela is regarded as one of the Leafs' top prospects and their top defensive prospect. His departure from Finland and arrival in North America is likely part of the reason that Rasmus Sandin became expendable and was moved to the Washington Capitals.
| POLL | ||
MARS 29 | 144 ANSWERS Leafs top defensive prospect expected to travel to Toronto this week just in time for the playoffs Will Topi Niemela challenge for a spot in the NHL out of training camp this fall? | ||
| Yes | 58 | 40.3 % |
| No | 41 | 28.5 % |
| The Leafs shouldn't rush him | 45 | 31.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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