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Insider reveals which Canadian team nearly landed Matt Roy in free agency
Maple Leafs Miss Out on Matt Roy, Sign Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson
Toronto Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving has been actively reshaping the team's defense this offseason by signing rugged defenseman Chris Tanev and Stanley Cup champion Oliver Ekman-Larsson. However, according to insider Chris Johnston on the Steve Dangle Podcast, Treliving didn't hit on all his defensive targets.
One notable miss was Matt Roy, who was a significant target for the Maple Leafs ahead of free agency. Roy ultimately signed a lucrative six-year, $34.5 million contract with the Washington Capitals, pricing Toronto out of the competition and forcing them to pursue other options.
«I think Matt Roy was a little bit of the one that got away. They were interested in Brady Skjei, but it was clear early on that wasn't going to be it. They called on [Brett] Pesce, but I didn't get a sense that was ever close. Roy was a big target.»
Roy, 29, has established himself as a steady top-four defenseman since debuting with the LA Kings during the 2018-19 season. Last season, Roy scored 5 goals and 25 points in 81 games while averaging 20:53 in ice time.
The Maple Leafs have been searching for right-shot defensemen and managed to secure Chris Tanev and possibly Jani Hakanpää, depending on his injury status. If Hakanpää's situation doesn't pan out, Toronto might need to explore free agency or the trade market to find another solid right-shot defenseman—a position that has been elusive for the franchise for quite some time.
As the Leafs continue to bolster their blue line, the missed opportunity with Matt Roy highlights the challenges of navigating the competitive free agency market. Nonetheless, the additions of Tanev and Ekman-Larsson signify Treliving's commitment to strengthening the team's defensive core for the upcoming season.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 12 | 58 ANSWERS Insider reveals which Canadian team nearly landed Matt Roy in free agency Do you think the Washington Capitals will get good value from Matt Roy's contract? | ||
| Yes, proven top four for a good price | 26 | 44.8 % |
| With the way he plays the contract wont age well | 32 | 55.2 % |
| List of polls | ||