Toronto Maple Leafs to Make Free-Agent Splash

The Toronto Maple Leafs don't have a ton of cap space to work with this summer but that's ok, they will still be able to add a couple of value players. Turns out they have interest in Michael Bunting and Nick Bonino to start, after that is anyone's guess.

Bunting played for head coach Sheldon Keefe in junior and is one of the more interesting names on the open market because of his age. He's younger than most unrestricted free agents at 25, because he did not play enough games during his entry level contract. Last season he scored 10 goals in 21 games for the Arizona Coyotes and is a net front presence they will need with Zach Hyman going to Edmonton.

As for Bonino, he's a veteran who has been around the block. He can play both center and wing and could get a look at either. It's likely to be a one year deal around the $1 million mark for the 33-year-old. His 105 postseason games are certainly appealing to teams and Bonino's character is second to none. Last season he recorded 26 points in 55 games with the Minnesota Wild.

With Bonino in the fold, he could take over as the team's third-line center and Alex Kerfoot could be moving to the wing on the second line. Lots of fun decisions to be made between now and opening night for the Maple Leafs. Turns out the Leafs were outbid by the San Jose Sharks. 

Leafs Nation how we feeling?

Photo credit: Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports