Here’s why the Toronto Maple Leafs work is far from over after signing Sergei Bobrovsky
The first few hours of NHL free agency saw a number of signings, but one of the most intriguing was the Toronto Maple Leafs putting pen to paper with two-time Stanley Cup champion Sergey Bobrovsky.
The 37-year-old is heading to Toronto on a three-year deal worth $7 million per year; This is a fantastic deal for a goalkeeper who has won two trophies in the last three years.
But given Bobrovsky’s resume, which includes a pair of Vezina Trophies, this deal might not be as perfect as you think.
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As a starter, Bobrovsky is coming off the worst season of his career statistically. His .877 save percentage this year was the lowest of his career; His 3.07 GAA was the highest.
Of course, this is no surprise considering the Panthers missed the playoffs this season. But according to SituationThey still ranked in the top third of the league in limited shooting.
MAPLE LEAFS TOP PICK GAVIN MCKENNA STARTS HIS TIME IN TORONTO WITH A DIFFICULT CEREMONY FIELD
Sergei Bobrovsky is heading to the Toronto Maple Leafs on a three-year contract. (Bob Frid-Imagn Images)
But the problem is that Bobrovsky is heading to the Leafs, who led the league in shots allowed last season.
It stands to reason that Bobrovsky would get at least some help playing behind a pretty solid defensive team, but again, the numbers were pretty rough.
The Leafs need to know this is a problem.
Bobrovsky still needed to tread the tires and maybe last season was an anomaly. But no matter what, the Leafs can’t say: “We have a Stanley Cup winner in net; mission accomplished!” and then dust off his hands.
The Toronto Maple Leafs will need to give Sergei Bobrovsky some help if they want this deal to work. (Sam Navarro-Imagn Images)
No. They need to strengthen their blue line and make sure they include defensively responsible forwards.
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If they can do that, it could work out well, especially if they use a duo of Bobrovsky and fellow former Panther Anthony Stolarz.
If they don’t? It’s hard to imagine that next season – Gavin McKenna’s rookie campaign in the majors – will be kind to the Leafs.
