Maple Leafs news and rumors: Pacioretty, Sullivan, Dubas and Robertson – Hockey Writers – Toronto Maple Leafs

In this edition of Toronto Maple Leafs News & Rumors, I will feature two interesting rumors and one important hire. First, there is speculation that the Maple Leafs may be interested in veteran forward Max Pacioretty. Known for his hard work, skill, and leadership, Pacioretty could be a valuable addition, especially since the team lacks a veteran this season. With his experience as a former captain of the Montreal Canadiens, Pacioretty can bring much-needed leadership to the locker room.

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The second rumor involves Nick Robertson, with whispers from Pittsburgh suggesting that his former manager (GM), Kyle Dubas, may be interested in bringing him to the Penguins. Dubas, who oversees Robertson’s draft, may see him as a recovery project worth pursuing.

Finally, the Maple Leafs’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, made a significant addition to their coaching staff by hiring Steve Sullivan. Sullivan, who played for the Maple Leafs and had a long career in the NHL, will bring his extensive experience to coach John Gruden’s team.

First Thing: Are The Maple Leafs Following Max Pacioretty?

The Maple Leafs are reportedly “strong in the mix” to sign veteran forward Max Pacioretty, which would bolster their offensive depth. Pacioretty, known for his prolific scoring ability, has six 30-goal seasons under his belt, making him attractive to a team looking to add firepower. However, there are clear reasons to be concerned about bringing Pacioretty to Toronto.

Reasons for interest in Pacioretty

Pacioretty has always been a reliable scorer. He can score, especially in important moments. He could give the Maple Leafs a valuable goal from their forward line. He could be the difference maker the team needs in tough games to push them over the edge. Pacioretty excels on the power play, where his presence around the net and ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities can bolster Toronto’s special teams. Adding him could provide another weapon in man advantage situations, which could increase his power play effectiveness.

Beyond scoring, Pacioretty plays a 200-foot game and contributes defensively, bringing flexibility to the Maple Leafs system. His experience in the NHL also means he can provide veteran leadership to a team with young players looking to step up.

Reasons to be aware of Pacioretty

Pacioretty’s recent injury history is a significant red flag. Suffering from two Achilles tears and other troubling issues, his ability to stay healthy is debatable. At 35, Pacioretty is also in the twilight of his career. Although he has been a great player in the past, age and physical injuries can affect his ability to keep up with the fast-paced NHL game. His performance may decline, which may not justify any investment above the league minimum.

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Finally, regarding salary, the current situation of the Maple Leafs adds another complication. With limited cap space, adding a player like Pacioretty could strain their financial flexibility. The club must carefully consider how his contract will fit into their salary structure and whether his contributions are worth the cost.

The bottom line is that Pacioretty’s scoring ability and experience make him an attractive option for the Maple Leafs; however, concerns about his health, age, and the financial impact of signing him suggest that Toronto should proceed with caution.

Item Two: Can Robertson Find a New Home with Dubas in Pittsburgh?

As the NHL season approaches, rumors continue to swirl about Maple Leafs forward Nick Robertson not being under contract. The winning young player, who has struggled to find a similar spot on the Maple Leafs roster, may be on his way, and the Pittsburgh Penguins could be a team to watch.

According to Dan Kingerski of Pittsburgh Hockey NowPenguins GM Kyle Dubas, who previously served as the Maple Leafs’ GM, remains a Robertson fan. This connection has sparked speculation that the Penguins may want to acquire the 22-year-old.

Given the current situation of the Maple Leafs, about $1.275 million in projected cap space with the top 12 already on the roster, an offer sheet would be an interesting option for the Penguins. An offer sheet below $2.29 million would only cost a third-round pick, an amount the Penguins might be willing to pay for Robertson’s power player. Sources suggest the Maple Leafs could match an offer sheet in this range. When it comes down to it, Toronto is likely to get more return in the trade.

Related: Nick Robertson Could Be Kyle Dubas’ Next Revival Project

Another possibility is that the Penguins could trade a player like Robertson to get this young player and sign him to a three-year, $6 million contract. Such a move would give Robertson stability and a fresh start while giving the Penguins a potential offensive spark. Dubas may travel to meet Robertson in Pittsburgh as rumors continue to circulate. Maple Leafs and Penguins fans will be watching closely to see how this situation plays out in the coming weeks.

Point Three: The Marlies hire Steve Sullivan to their coaching staff

The Toronto Marlies have added to their coaching staff by hiring former NHL forward Steve Sullivan as an assistant coach. Announced Thursday, the move brings a wealth of experience and a strong hockey pedigree to the Marlies.

Sullivan, a 50-year-old from Timmins, Ontario, will join head coach Gruden’s staff, working with assistant coach Michael Dyck, goaltending coach Hannu Toivonen, and video coach Troy Paquette. While this marks Sullivan’s first coaching role at the professional level, he brings a deep understanding of the game from his extensive work on and off the ice.

Sullivan’s career in hockey includes many different roles, including time spent with the Arizona Coyotes organization from 2014 to 2021, where he served as a development coach, director of player development, and assistant general manager. Notably, he briefly held the interim GM position for the Coyotes in 2020. His experience managing the Tucson Roadrunners, Arizona’s AHL franchise, also makes him a valuable asset to the Marlies.

As a player, Sullivan enjoyed a 16-season NHL career, including with the Maple Leafs from 1997 to 1999. He played 154 games for Toronto, contributing 38 goals and 50 assists. His playing career included stints with the New Jersey Devils, Nashville Predators, and Coyotes, where he scored 290 goals and added 457 assists in 1,011 career games. He was also a key figure in the AHL, winning the Calder Cup with the Albany River Rats in 1995 and earning All-Star honors in 1996.

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Sullivan’s hiring by the Marlies brings a familiar face to Toronto and someone with a strong track record in player development and team management. His extensive experience in various roles and his deep ties to the hockey community make him a promising addition to the Marlies coaching staff.

What’s Next in Maple Leaves?

As a longtime fan of Pacioretty, dating back to his days with the Canadiens, I have always appreciated the value of the older veterans he brings to the team. The Maple Leafs have benefited from having experienced players who can mentor young talent and provide leadership on and off the ice. However, I also believe that the Maple Leafs need to start incorporating more young players into the roster.

Last year’s experience with Bobby McMann showed that other youngsters are waiting to prove themselves in the NHL. It would be a shame to bring in a veteran for a high salary, especially when a young player with his skill set could fill that role. We know what a veteran can contribute. While that is important, we have yet to see what some of these young players can do.

There may be a few diamonds in the rough for the Maple Leafs to develop. I hope the team gives them enough opportunity to play strong roles this season.