Former Toronto Maple Leafs Defenseman Bought Out After Just One Season With His New Team

Back in 2020, the Toronto Maple Leafs signed defenseman TJ Brodie to a four-year, $20 million deal. The AAV was an even $5 million per season, and for the most part, he served his purpose.

He always had a positive plus/minus, and his offensive numbers were respectable, at least in the assists category. However, last summer, the Leafs let him walk in free agency, and he signed with the Chicago Blackhawks on a two-year deal worth $3.75 million per season.

Unfortunately, Brodie did not live up to his contract, as he only managed 10 points in 54 games, while notching a plus/minus of -18. Not very good.

Over the weekend, Brodie was placed on waivers. If he cleared, the Blackhawks were going to buy out his contract and turn the defenseman into an unrestricted free agent.

That is exactly what happened as the defenseman was unable to get picked up by anyone. Now, he gets to sign a new deal, although we imagine it won't be anywhere near $3.75 million per season.

At 35 years old, Brodie has a ton of mileage on his body. He has played 962 games, and next season, we imagine he will hit that 1000 games plateau.

It is going to be fascinating to see what the market is for Brodie and whether or not he can find himself another job in the NHL, relatively soon.

Of course, he can start negotiating as of July 1st. One has to wonder whether or not the Leafs would be interested in bringing him back.

If one thing is certain, it is that we are in for a very interesting free agency period, and Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving will have some huge decisions to make.

Whether or not he is up to the moment, still remains to be seen.