Toronto Maple Leafs officially sign Jani Hakanpaa to a one-year deal

The Toronto Maple Leafs have officially signed defenseman Jani Hakanpää to a one-year contract worth $1.470 million. The move adds a physically imposing blue-liner to the team's defensive core for the upcoming season.

The 32-year-old Hakanpää, a native of Kirkkonummi, Finland, recorded 12 points in 64 games with the Dallas Stars during the 2023-24 season, tallying two goals and 10 assists. Known for his defensive presence, Hakanpää's 6'7, 225-pound frame offers size and strength that complements Toronto's current roster.

In his NHL career, Hakanpää has played 288 regular season games, registering 45 points, including 15 goals and 30 assists. He also racked up 173 penalty minutes over stints with the Anaheim Ducks, Carolina Hurricanes, and Dallas Stars. His playoff experience, which includes four points in 33 postseason games, will provide additional depth to the Maple Leafs as they push for a deeper playoff run.

Selected by the St. Louis Blues in the fourth round of the 2010 NHL Draft, Hakanpää has steadily made a name for himself as a reliable, stay-at-home defenseman, offering a strong defensive presence and physicality.

Hakanpää's arrival in Toronto signals the team's commitment to bolstering their defense, particularly with his size and ability to shut down opposing forwards. As the Maple Leafs look ahead to the 2024-25 season, his presence could be a crucial factor in shoring up their defensive play and balancing the lineup. The Leafs continue to prioritize players who bring a mix of experience and toughness, and Hakanpää's signing is a step in that direction.

This signing aligns with Toronto's broader strategy to maintain defensive stability, addressing gaps exposed in previous seasons. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this latest addition to the blue line will impact the team's performance moving forward.

Source: Toronto Maple Leafs
Maple Leafs Sign Defenceman Jani Hakanpää