Toronto Maple Leafs Linked to Top Free Agent Defenseman, and the Price Isn't So Bad

The Florida Panthers are currently in the Stanley Cup Finals, where they are taking on the Edmonton Oilers. The series is tied at 2 games apiece, and overall, it has been a phenomenal series.

However, there are numerous Panthers players who are set to become free agents this summer. Chief among them are guys like Brad Marchand, Sam Bennett, and defenseman Aaron Ekblad.

There have been rumblings that Ekblad will be exploring his options come July 1st, and now, it seems like he is more likely to leave than stay.

According to Davd Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, the Panthers would re-sign him, but they want him in the $6 million range. Right now, he makes $7.5 million, which is too steep for them.

Numerous insiders have linked the Maple Leafs to Ekblad. The Detroit Red Wings and the Edmonton Oilers are also among the teams who want to sign the defenseman.

In 56 games this season, Ekblad had three goals and 30 assists for a total of 33 points. In 732 games played, he has 380 points. Needless to say, he can deliver solid defense and offensive production.

This makes him the perfect free agent for the Toronto Maple Leafs, who need to add some offense to their blueline. Morgan Rielly has proven not to be enough on that front, and they could use some extra firepower on their top pairing.

Overall, signing Ekblad will not be easy. But it is a worthwhile endeavor given what he can provide for a team.