Former Dallas Stars defenseman signs with Detroit Red Wings rival
The Toronto Maple Leafs' signing of Jani Hakanpää adds a key defensive element to their blue line.
It also puts the team over the salary cap, suggesting that GM Brad Treliving is preparing to make a trade.
With the team already exceeding the cap by $1M and forwards Steven Lorentz and Max Pacioretty on PTOs, a move to clear cap space seems inevitable. Players like Calle Jarnkrok and David Kämpf, who combine for $4.5M in cap space, are logical trade candidates given their bottom-six roles, especially with younger and cheaper players pushing for roster spots.
With training camp around the corner, the Leafs will likely make a move soon to finalize their cap situation.
Jani Hakanpää stats
POLL |
SEPTEMBRE 11 | 23 ANSWERS Former Dallas Stars defenseman signs with Detroit Red Wings rival Do you think it's a good signature by the Toronto Maple Leafs? |
Yes | 15 | 65.2 % |
No | 8 | 34.8 % |
List of polls |
|
1 hour ago | By Jack Sutherland Towering Red Wings forward Elmer Soderblom obliterates Seattle's Brandon Montour with massive hit |
|
1 hour ago | By Jack Sutherland Red Wings' Patrick Kane officially sets NHL history in win over Kraken |
|
11 hours ago | By Jack Sutherland Red Wings screwed by terrible missed call by referees, allowing Kraken to score moments later |
|
13 hours ago | By Jack Sutherland Scary scene in Pittsburgh as Penguins captain Sidney Crosby leaves doubled over in pain after collision |
|
15 hours ago | By Jack Sutherland Ex-Red Wings assistant GM Jim Nill reveals Steve Yzerman's near super-human dedication |
|
16 hours ago | By Jack Sutherland Could Chris Ilitch's ownership of the Red Wings and Tigers be affected? |
|
18 hours ago | By Jack Sutherland Major life-changing news for Red Wings CEO Chris Ilitch |
|
19 hours ago | By Jack Sutherland Red Wings' Lucas Raymond previews his appearance in the 4 Nations Face-off |
Previously on Red Wings Insider