The Toronto Maple Leafs have found their depth defender, signing Ron Hainsey to a two-year, $6MM contract.
Hainsey is coming off the first playoff run of his NHL career, one that ended in celebration with the Pittsburgh Penguins. In over 900 games, the 36-year old has been a solid puck mover for several teams and will look to continue his career with the young Maple Leafs team. After losing Matt Hunwick and Roman Polak to free agency, the Leafs had an opening on their bottom pairing and Hainsey’s versatility—left handed but has experience on both sides—will allow them to make decisions on who else to bring aboard.
The Leafs have several other bottom-pairing options, but aren’t expected to make any big defensive signings on the open market even with a perceived need for a right-handed upgrade. The options, outside of Kevin Shattenkirk of course, aren’t an exciting group. There is still the possibility of a trade, but for now the Maple Leafs seem to be adding depth instead.
Pierre LeBrun of TSN was first to break the deal.
Really good deal but they still need a young top 4 D expect to see JVR shopped for a Dman today