Ekman-Larsson reveals why Toronto was at the top of his list in free agency
Photo credit: Daily Faceoff
New addition Oliver Ekman-Larsson has revealed why he chose to sign with the Toronto Maple Leafs in free agency, putting the passionate fanbase at the top of his list.
Ekman-Larsson spoke to the media today via Zoom call and had plenty to say about what he expects from himself next season, his new teammates, and why he chose the Maple Leafs in free agency.
Ekman-Larsson signed a 4 year, $3.5M AAV deal with the Maple Leafs on July 1st.
As per TSN Reporter Mark Masters Ekman-Larsson had this to say about his decision to sign in Toronto:
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"Playing for other teams, I loved coming into Toronto. Just a passionate fan base, who cares a lot about the team so I'm super excited about that. Heard a lot of good things from players that play there That's what you want. That's why you play."
The Swedish defenceman, had this to say about his former Florida Panthers teammate, Anthony Stolarz:
''What I like about Stollie is he works really hard & he's an unbelievable person. I'm super happy that he's coming to Toronto as well. You guys are going to love him.'' - OEL, with a grin on his face
Ekman-Larsson also mentioned the tremendous skill on atop the lineup as another reason he was interested in signing in Toronto. The chance to play with Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner and William Nylander really stood out to him.
''It's hard to find better talented players than what we have in that room so I'm super excited to do whatever I can to help them out.''
Terry Koshan, of the Toronto Sun, also caught a great quote from Ekman-Larsson, and his willingness to do anything the club asks of him:
''Anything they need me to do. I feel like I'm still skating well. I know I'm moving the puck well, breaking the puck out. I want to be the best version of myself. I feel like I can be that in Toronto with a lot of good players around me.''
It is clear that the former Panthers defender is extremely excited to join the Maple Leafs, which makes OEL all the more likely to be a fast fan-favourite - provided he can handle himself well on the ice.
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