Brian Boyle Would be Open to Returning to Maple Leafs Next Season

Brian Boyle is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, but the veteran centre is open to returning to the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The Toronto Maple Leafs filled a major hole at the trade deadline this season when they acquired centre Brian Boyle from the Tampa Bay Lightning. The towering 6-foot-6 centre not only brought veteran leadership to the Leafs, he also proved to be a dependable fourth line forward who Mike Babcock could deploy in just about any defensive zone situation.

The caveat with acquiring Boyle, however, is that he will be an unrestricted free agent this summer. Despite his contract uncertainty entering this offseason, the 32-year-old veteran told reporters on Tuesday he would be open to returning to the Leafs.

Boyle also mentioned he was unsure where everyone else [Leafs management] stands, but I think given the way he played with the Leafs the team will be inclined to sign him. Toronto did part ways with a draft pick to acquire him, and they were well aware of his contract status, so I’m guessing they feel confident they can bring him back.

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Of course, it will all come down to money and term. Boyle will more than likely be a sought after free agent this summer and will likely receive a raise from the $2 million he made this season. The Leafs do have cap space to work with, but rookie bonuses and holes along the blue line will impact their financial situation.

When you look at it from Boyle’s perspective, though, this could possibly be the last contract he signs in his career and I would guess winning a Stanley Cup, or at least having a chance too, is priority No. 1 for him. The Leafs appear to be building a contender, which is something Boyle mentioned on Tuesday, so perhaps we will see No. 24 back with the Blue and White next season.

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Would you like to see the Toronto Maple Leafs re-sign Brian Boyle this offseason? If yes, what kind of contract would you offer him? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.