Ex-Leaf identifies one new addition as a perfect fit for the Maple Leafs
Former Maple Leafs tough guy Jay Rosehill believes Oliver Ekman-Larsson will be a better addition to the team than most may think.
The Toronto Maple Leafs recently signed Stanley Cup champion Oliver Ekman-Larsson to a four-year deal worth $3.5 million per season. Although Ekman-Larsson no longer produces offense as he did earlier in his career with the Arizona Coyotes, he was a pivotal player for the Florida Panthers last season, helping them on their run to their first Stanley Cup in franchise history.
On the "Leafs Morning Take" podcast, with Nick Alberga and Jay Rosehill, the latter discussed why he thinks Ekman-Larsson will be a valuable addition to the Maple Leafs next season, even in a reduced role.
It's not 10 years ago and he's not 24 years old, but I think there is a spot for him here where he can do that like 2nd pairing thing very well and just chug along and be solid and be that guy that we're always happy to have there''
Ekman-Larsson was still productive with the Panthers last season, registering 32 points in 80 regular-season games and adding 6 points in 24 playoff games. While his point production has declined, he has refined other aspects of his game, making him reliable in all zones on the ice. Alongside newly signed veteran Chris Tanev, OEL will bring tremendous experience to the Maple Leafs. With these additions, the team can feel confident up and down their lineup, regardless of who is on the ice -- though I'm sure OEL will not be out there defending any leads late in the 3rd period.
Source: HockeyDBOliver Ekman-Larsson Statistics
| POLL | ||
7 AOUT | 812 ANSWERS Ex-Leaf identifies one new addition as a perfect fit for the Maple Leafs Do you think Oliver Ekman-Larsson will be an impact player on the Maple Leafs in the 2024-25 season? | ||
| Yes | 580 | 71.4 % |
| No | 100 | 12.3 % |
| Unsure, but hopeful | 132 | 16.3 % |
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