Toronto Maple Leafs extend qualifying offers to six players

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced on Monday that they have today extended qualifying offers to six of their restricted free agents.

After announcing their development camp roster, the Toronto Maple Leafs took care of business on the free agent side extending qualifying offers to six players.

The biggest name among the group without a doubt is William Nylander, who will be expecting a large pay increase with any contract he negotiates with the Leafs organisation.

Since making his debut for the Maple Leafs in the 2015/16 season, Nylander has made 185 appearances and scored 48 goals – earning a total of 135 points.

He is an integral part of the Leafs’ present and future and it will be up to Kyle Dubas to ensure the team re-sign him on a deal that will please the young Swede and allow the club flexibility in free agency and contract negotiations next summer.

Miro Aaltonen, who has recently left North America to reportedly play in the KHL once again, has also received a qualifying offer from the team.

While he isn’t likely to be seen in a Marlies or Leafs jersey at all next season, the offer allows the organisation to retain his NHL rights if he chooses to return.

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Aaltonen was seen as a player that had the potential to crack the Leafs team next season, operating as the team’s fourth line centre, but he is hoping to continue to play on a top line for a top tier team.

Another player to receive an offer that is undoubtedly going to play for the Leafs this coming season is Andreas Johnsson – a former linemate of Aaltonen.

Johnsson had a stellar season in the AHL this past campaign and his 24 points in 16 playoff games help guide the team to their first-ever Calder Cup.

He looked impressive during his brief spell with the Maple Leafs last season and will no doubt find himself in the team’s line-up come the opening day of the season.

With the Leafs having some questions over their centre depth next season, 2013 first-round pick Frederik Gauthier has also received a qualifying offer and will likely be seen as an insurance policy with the Marlies.

Gauthier played just nine times in the NHL last season and wasn’t able to lock down a role on the team, with Dominic Moore and Tomas Plekanec preferred on the team’s fourth line.

Justin Holl, who looked impressive during his two-game spell with the Leafs, where he registered two goals, has also received an offer along with fellow defenceman Martin Marincin – who had a resurgence in form towards the end of last season.

Next: Leafs saw enough in Pontus Holmberg to make trade

Toronto Maple Leafs fans, what do you think of the team’s decision to qualify these six players? Are you surprised by any of them? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!