Rumor: Toronto Maple Leafs Interested in Ryan Getzlaf

The Toronto Maple Leafs are looking for a right-handed center for their third-line next season and one name that has surfaced as a potential suitor is free-agent to be, Anaheim Ducks veteran Ryan Getzlaf. 

Luke Fox of Sportsnet brought up the idea in his Mailbag this week and the name makes a ton of sense. Getting him to commit to Toronto instead of his home in California is going to be the tough part. Getzlaf has a young family so there's certainly going to be a lot to digest for him if he was to sign in Toronto. The Ducks have been in constant contact with the free-agent to be and if there isn't an extension announced, expect the Leafs to come calling ASAP.

Last season in Anaheim, Getzlaf saw his role diminish. The Ducks have a young team and are trying to transition to the new age core of the franchise. Last season 'Getzy' recorded 17 points in 48 games and with his skating abilities, is well suited for a third-line type of role and perhaps some second power-play minutes.

The Leafs showed this past season they aren't shy to bring in some aging veterans with the likes of Joe Thornton, Jason Spezza and Wayne Simmonds. This offseason, expect them to be linked to Getzlaf and if he's willing to leave the beaches of California, it could be a really good fit!

Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports