Mark Giordano's Fate Confirmed to be Linked to Jani Hakanpaa Situation
Where Mark Giordano winds up will rely heavily on the Jani Hakanpaa outcome, according to agent Rich Winter.
Mark Giordano still wants to play in the NHL and thinks he can. The former Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman might be the oldest player in the league, (he turns 41 in October) but is also currently looking for a new contract and the Leafs are likely his number one preference.
David Alter of The Hockey News reports that Mark Giordano's days with the Maple Leafs may not in fact be over, but much of it depends on if Jani Hakanpaa's contract is signed and made official. Giordano's agent Rich Winter had this to say in a recent interview.
It's possible that Brad Treliving brings back Giordano for another season as a depth defenseman if Hakanpaa is unable to play. While everyone loves to rave about his presence, is there really a point in bringing the hometown guy back for another year? The Leafs' blueline is already on the older side and they do have some depth at the position. It needs to add quality rather than more depth.
Rich Winter says that if the door is closes on Toronto, the Edmonton Oilers may be out there ready to sign him.
The thought of Giordano in an Oilers jersey is revolting, especially for Flames fans. Still, he believes he can play and this may very well be his last chance at playing for a Stanley Cup. If he ever does raise the Cup, it would mean a lot to him. If he raises it in Toronto, it would mean even more.
Source: The Hockey NewsMark Giordano's Agent Updates the Latest on Maple Leafs' Interest in Veteran Defenseman
| POLL | ||
8 SEPTEMBRE | 191 ANSWERS Mark Giordano's Fate Confirmed to be Linked to Jani Hakanpaa Situation Will Mark Giordano play in the NHL this year? | ||
| No, he should retire | 51 | 26.7 % |
| Yes, in Toronto | 80 | 41.9 % |
| Yes, in Edmonton | 11 | 5.8 % |
| He'll retire as a Calgary Flame | 49 | 25.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
