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Toronto Maple Leafs: Possible new signings

By Vanessa Serrao

Apr 23, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock speaks to the media after their elimination at the hands of the Washington Capitals in game six of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Air Canada Centre. The Capitals beat the Maple Leafs 2-1 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 23, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock speaks to the media after their elimination at the hands of the Washington Capitals in game six of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Air Canada Centre. The Capitals beat the Maple Leafs 2-1 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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"Even as the NHL playoffs continue, Toronto Maple Leafs coach Mike Babcock is already focusing on the future of his team."

Many are very impressed with how the Toronto Maple Leafs did this season. With a team that is full of rookies and that contained a lack of defensive power, they managed to make their way to the playoffs.

In addition, the Leafs showed great resilience versus the Washington Capitals. Although they ultimately fell short, taking the regular season’s best team to six games was extremely impressive.

In regards to his current roster, Leafs’ coach Mike Babcock has confidence, trust and positivity in players like Mitch Marner, Auston Matthews and William Nylander. However, as it is the offseason, what’s at stake for the team?

What die hard Leaf fans are anticipating, is new faces on the team. Despite the Leafs’ promising season, Babcock knows there is still work to be done and this means adding depth.

Babcock commented on the matter during a recent discussion with Darren Dreger. As reported by SB Nation, he said:

"“That’s why we’re here. We’re here trying to find players to fill in the holes to make our team better.”"

Gaining new blood that will win you games isn’t as easy as everyone anticipates. You don’t just score these players by luck. It takes hard work, research, and analyzing the missing cracks within your team.

The Toronto Maple Leafs’ Possible Future

The Leafs organization knows a team that wants to be a long-term contender won’t appear over night. It is going to take time, but they are on the right path.

Babcock is apparently looking to sign some European free agents. In addition, he would like a right-handed defenseman who has the ability to play 25 minutes.

A possible choice is Chris Tanev. Could he be the answer to the Toronto Maple Leafs’ defensive issues?

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A lot of the rumors surrounding Tanev involve possibly letting go of James van Riemsdyk, Morgan Rielly or Nylander. It is anticipated he would come at a high price, but that he would definitely make a good fit with defence being a priority.

Karl Alzner is another name that has been discussed as a possible acquisition. Without a doubt, he would be of major assistance to the Leafs’ defence.

However,  just like Tanev, Alzner would come at a high cost. Other potential options being mentioned are Michael Stone, Dmitry Kulikov and former Maple Leaf Cody Franson.

With regards to the draft, this is where the Leafs can also look for some defensive assistance, with them set to pick 17th overall. Noteworthy names they should be keeping an eye on are Cal Foote, Nick Hague, Juuso Valimaki and Erik Brannstrom.

Next: Leafs should target defencemen in the draft

What would be your approach to strengthening the blue line? Who should the Leafs target and why? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

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