The Toronto Maple Leafs were in the running to acquire goaltender Jacob Markstrom, so much so that they reportedly made a similar offer to the New Jersey Devils. However, it is a “political” decision which could have weighed in the balance.
The Calgary Flames, the Swedish veteran’s former team, could be biased against the Leafs, because of general manager Brad Treliving who was part of the Alberta organization from 2014 to 2023.
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“I think because of politics, Toronto was going to have to surpass [les offres de] everyone to get it,” said the podcast on Friday 32 Thoughts Sportsnet reporter Elliotte Friedman.
It was the Devils who finally obtained the favor of Markstrom and the Flames, giving them defenseman Kevin Bahl and a first-round pick in 2025. The 34-year-old athlete is still under contract for two seasons.
“I also think Markstrom liked New Jersey better, but he was open to Eastern Conference teams like Toronto and Ottawa. However, the Maple Leafs had to win,” added Friedman.
Treliving has his work cut out for him this summer to replenish his roster, particularly in front of the net. Only Joseph Woll is under contract for 2024-25, while Ilya Samsonov, Martin Jones and Matt Murray will become free agents.
The goalie market will not be huge this year and Toronto will probably not be able to find a number 1 left free. Doormen like Anthony Stolarz and Laurent Brossoit could, however, solidify a duo.
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