Sources reveal an unexpected twist in Jani Hakanpaa's Maple Leafs situation
Photo credit: HTR
Jani Hakanpaa's potential deal with the Maple Leafs grows uncertain due to ongoing concerns about his knee health.
The situation remains unresolved with no contract signed yet.
The ongoing uncertainty around Jani Hakanpaa's potential signing with the Toronto Maple Leafs has raised significant doubts. NHL insider Chris Johnston discussed the matter on TSN 1050's "First Up," shedding light on the situation.
Johnston noted that Hakanpaa has yet to finalize a contract with the Leafs, largely due to persistent concerns over his knee health. Although Hakanpaa remains optimistic about his playing ability, conflicting medical evaluations have created a cloud of uncertainty.
The fact that's gone on this long probably doesn't suggest good things, encouraging things
Johnston elaborated on the situation, indicating that the prolonged delay is not a positive sign.
The longer it goes and he doesn't have a contract, it doesn't look like he's gonna end up with one. But the best I can say right now is I don't know 100% it's not going to go that way, just the writing doesn't appear to be too encouraging. This would be just a case where the Leafs would have concern or their doctors or whoever they're relying on for advice that it's too big of a risk that he won't be able to play because of the condition of his knee.
The ongoing holdup suggests that Hakanpaa's potential move to the Leafs hinges directly on his health. The fact that he has not yet signed indicates that the team is awaiting a clear health assessment before moving forward.
Hakanpaa's knee issues led the Dallas Stars to part ways with him, allowing him to enter free agency. While Toronto's medical team initially appeared to give the green light, it seems they may have encountered the same concerns that led the Stars to release him. Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving addressed the issue briefly at a recent press conference, expressing hope for a resolution soon. His comments coincided with the announcement of Auston Matthews as the new team captain.
With training camp and preseason games on the horizon, the Leafs face mounting pressure to resolve this situation swiftly. If Hakanpaa is ultimately deemed unfit to play, Toronto will need to explore alternative options. The free-agent market for right-handed defensemen has significantly narrowed, complicating their search. Additionally, any decision regarding Hakanpaa will impact the Leafs' salary cap strategy, particularly as they are nearing their cap limit and must address the situation with unsigned forward Nick Robertson.
Drafted in the fourth round by the St. Louis Blues in 2010, Hakanpaa has played 288 career games. Last season with the Dallas Stars, he appeared in 64 games, recording two goals and ten assists for 12 points, and finishing with a solid +10 rating. When healthy, he has proven to be a reliable shutdown defenseman.
Source: Hockey Patrol
Jani Hakanpaa situation with the Maple Leafs takes a surprising turn per source
Jani Hakanpaa situation with the Maple Leafs takes a surprising turn per source
Source: NHL.com Jani Hakanpaa Stats
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27 AOUT | 57 ANSWERS Sources reveal an unexpected twist in Jani Hakanpaa's Maple Leafs situation Will Jani Hakanpaa ever sport a Maple Leafs jersey and play alongside new team captain Auston Matthews? | ||
| Yes | 19 | 33.3 % |
| No | 38 | 66.7 % |
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