NHL Rumors: Maple Leafs Goalie Finished in Toronto

Sounds like Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Kyle Dubas would like a do-over as there's been multiple reports the Leafs GM will try to find a trade partner for goaltender Petr Mrazek. If a trade does not materialize before July 13 when free agency begins, look for Mrazek to be bought out by the hockey club.

The Athletic's James Mirtle and Jonas Siegel recently reported on what the Maple Leafs might do this summer, and Mrazek's name was front and center. The two had this to say on the goalie's future in Toronto:

We’ve seen some members of the fan base theorize that maybe the Leafs should just bring him back, but the cap math on that is very difficult. Mrazek has played the equivalent of just 28 games in terms of minutes in the crease over the last two seasons and had a disastrous .888 save percentage this year. It makes no sense to dedicate $3.8 million to such a big wild card in a pivotal season for the franchise.

Mrazek couldn't stay healthy in 2021-22 and had chances to take over as the team's number one netminder. The unreliability and lack of production, mixed with the fact he's signed for two more seasons at $3.8 million on a team that's strapped for cash, it's certainly not the most ideal situation for the Maple Leafs.

Toronto is trying hard to sign Jack Campbell, a contract that's likely going to hover around the $5 million per season mark, so get Mrazek out of the way would be a smart move by Dubas and company. The 30-year-old netminder holds a modified no-trade clause where he submits a list of 10 teams he'd like to avoid. Perhaps a team like the Buffalo Sabres or New Jersey Devils take a look here at the NHL Draft later this month.

Photo credit:  Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports