Former Toronto Maple Leafs Draft Pick Hits Waivers Just Months After Leaving the Franchise
Photo credit: Maple Leafs Hot Stove
The Toronto Maple Leafs saw quite a few former draft picks and prospects leave the franchise this summer, and now, another NHL hopeful has hit waivers.
During free agency, the Toronto Maple Leafs had to say goodbye to some good guys. Many of these goodbyes were for previous draft picks who simply weren't getting NHL opportunities in Toronto.
Alex Steeves left the franchise, and we also saw Nick Abruzzese make his way to the Tampa Bay Lightning. For those who may not know, Abruzzese was a fourth-round pick of the Leafs back in 2019.
While he did play 11 NHL games for the Maple Leafs, he was never able to make much of an impact. With just one goal and two assists, it's clear that the Leafs needed more to compete.
Having said that, Leafs fans were eager to see what Abruzzese could do with the Lightning. After all, they are a pretty great team, and there have been some potential openings on the roster.
Tampa Bay Lightning make tough decision on Nick Abruzzese
Unfortunately, on Wednesday, Nick Abruzzese suffered a fate that he knows all too well at this point, as the Lightning assigned him to waivers.
This is all in an attempt to get the forward back down to the minors safely. While Abruzzese didn't make the NHL, his professional career will continue.
At 26 years old, it remains to be seen whether or not the forward will remain in the AHL long term, or if he will get tired of his predicament and attempt to go elsewhere in the world to play hockey.
With all of the leagues in Europe, we're sure Abruzzese could thrive overseas. For now, however, it appears as though he hopes to keep the NHL dream alive.
We truly do wish the forward the best of luck going forward, as he is someone that we always rooted for.
Given his past AHL numbers, there is no doubt that an NHL opportunity could come soon.
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