While there has been a significant exodus of NHL prospects overseas in recent weeks, there are still some spots available in various leagues. One of those has been filled by Maple Leafs prospect Kristians Rubins as Frederikshavn of the Metal Ligaen in Denmark announced that they’ve added the blueliner on loan until NHL training camps get underway.
The 22-year-old spent all of last season with the Toronto Marlies of the AHL and collected two goals and 12 assists in 47 games. It was step up for Rubins after he spent most of his rookie season at the ECHL level with St. John’s.
Next season will be the final year of his entry-level contract and while a good showing with Frederikshavn won’t be enough to get him in the mix for a spot with Toronto, it might aid in his attempt to secure a qualifying offer and a second contract next offseason. He’s expected to make his Danish League debut on Tuesday.