NHL Rumors: Radko Gudas Generated Interest From Contender

While speaking with iSport.cz, Radko Gudas said that Toronto Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving targeted him in free agency.

This is not the most surprising news to hear, as the Maple Leafs lost two right-shot defensemen this summer in Luke Schenn and Justin Holl. Gudas would have been a nice replacement for Schenn, as he also plays an extremely heavy game and is known for his toughness. Yet, all hopes of that occurring evaporated when Gudas elected to join the Anaheim Ducks.

Gudas spent this past season with the Florida Panthers, where he posted two goals, 17 points, 312 hits, and a plus-14 rating. It was a strong year for the 33-year-old, so it makes sense that the Maple Leafs were interested in adding him.

In the end, the Maple Leafs found another right-shot defenseman in John Klingberg. Although Klingberg does not play a heavy game like Gudas, he is a strong point-producer from the backend who should play well for Toronto.

Besides the Leafs, Gudas also had interest from the Calgary Flames and Edmonton Oilers but did not wish to play for a Canadian market.

It will be interesting to see how well Gudas performs for the Ducks from here.