Reporter suggests that we could see top remaining UFA sign with the Leafs
There's a lot to be excited about in Toronto for the upcoming season with a healthy, extended Auston Matthews, a Max Domi homecoming, a brand new agitator in Tyler Bertuzzi, rookie seasons for Joseph Woll and Matthew Knies and a number of other intriguing storylines.
As interesting of an offseason as the Leafs had this summer, the season may yet become even more interesting with a Patrick Kane decision looming. For those who missed it, earlier this week, Kane revealed that he is near full health and will begin speaking with teams about a potential contract throughout training camps and the preseason.
Kane told The Associated Press this week that while he's not quite 100%, he's very close and could even be a bit ahead of schedule. However, he did caution that he plans to wait until he's 105%-110% before coming back, which could take him into the season, which would be in line with his original 4-6 month recovery window.
While Kane did not tip his hand and reveal any details on where he might like to sign, one reporter believes he's a legitimate candidate for the Leafs to sign to a 1-year "prove it" deal to show teams that he's healthy. Playing in a market like Toronto, with all of the excess media exposure, could certainly help Kane to showcase that he can still play at 34 years old and that his hip issues are over following surgery earlier this year.
While Augello believes that Kane to Toronto is a viable option, I'd imagine that it's more of a "dark horse" destination. Kane had the option to force a trade to Toronto last season before the deadline, but instead opted for a deal to the Rangers, as many believed he wanted to remain in the States. It will be interesting to see if that's still the case or if the chance to play with Auston Matthews is an enticing enough opportunity to lure him north of the border.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 3 | 1713 ANSWERS Reporter suggests that we could see top remaining UFA sign with the Leafs Do you think Patrick Kane would consider signing a 1-year deal with the Leafs to prove, in a large market, that he's healthy and can still play? | ||
| Yes | 1008 | 58.8 % |
| No | 466 | 27.2 % |
| He wants to stay in the States | 239 | 14 % |
| List of polls | ||
