On the Toronto Maple Leafs, Tyler Bozak, and James van Riemsdyk …
Maple Leafs Hot Stove: Darren Dreger was on TSN 1050 and was asked about the likelihood of Tyler Bozak re-siging with the Maple Leafs.
“I think it’s unlikely. There is a real good market, as there should be, for Tyler Bozak. It’s not that Mike Babcock and the Toronto Maple Leafs don’t see value in Tyler Bozak. You just have to look at some of the other issues they’re facing, and also the reality that the Toronto Maple Leafs are trending in a different direction. Tyler Bozak — on a more established team, perhaps — is going to be highly sought after. The market is always strong on good centers, but I don’t see the fit with the Toronto Maple Leafs. I think those days are gone.”
Dreger was asked if there have been any talks with their other free agents. Dreger thinks the Maple Leafs spoke with Leo Komorav a couple weeks ago after the World Championships. Talks were preliminary, asking if we were interested, what would Komarov be looking for.
As for James van Riemsdyk.
“When I look at JVR, I think that ship sailed a while ago – not because they don’t appreciate what he brings, it’s just he played so darn well and scored so many goals that he’s put himself in a place that, even with the cap going up, it’s real difficult for the Toronto Maple Leafs to get into that one.”
Chris Johnston of Sportsnet: It doesn’t sound like Dubas is targeting top free agents in John Tavares and John Carlson in free agency.
“Now we have our own difference-makers that are our core of our team, so now we can look and add guys who can perhaps complement our own core, which we didn’t have back ,” said Dubas.
CP on Sportsnet: GM Kyle Dubas hasn’t closed the door on pending UFAs James van Riemsdyk, Tyler Bozak and Leo Komarov.
“The door is always open,” Dubas said. “We’re evaluating where things are.”