Toronto Maple Leafs reportedly looking to sign Alexander Barabanov
The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly looking to sign Alexander Barabano who is looking to make the move to the NHL but they also have competition.
Over the past few years, the Toronto Maple Leafs have been a popular destination for KHL free agents and it looks like Alexander Barabanov is at the top of the list for them.
For months we have heard Barabanov’s name being linked to the Leafs but they are not the only team showing interest as the Arizona Coyotes have shown considerable interest. Fortunately for the Leafs, they have a bit of an advantage when it comes to recruiting the 25-year-old.
Barabanov is represented by Gold Star Sports Management Group which is run by Daniel Milstein someone the Leafs have done business on numerous occasions. Over the years, Toronto has signed or drafted clients like Nikita Zaitsev, Ilya Mikheyev, Egor Korshkov, Nikita Soshnikov, Alexey Marchenko, and Martins Dzierkals.
Leafs and at least 20 other teams have reached out over the season. Not guaranteed he’s making the move to the NHL. Barabanov and his agent, Dan Milstein, are going to start interviewing teams early next week. https://t.co/ppbeoDcbu0
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) March 28, 2020
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The Leafs might have a tougher time with a deal involving Barabanov because as a 25-year-old, he doesn’t have to sign an entry-level deal. It should hopefully be easier to attract him since they have an established relationship with Milstein.
This has been a successful path for adding players over the past few seasons for the Leafs as these free agents have mostly been able to plug into the lineup right away and produce. Mikheyev is the latest success story before suffering an unfortunate wrist injury.
What makes Barabanov stand out is the fact that he is among the top skaters in the KHL and has played for Russia on numerous occasions at the World Championship and the Olympics.
According to KHL/NHL reporter Igor Eronko, Barabanov is not shy when it comes to hunting pucks down along the boards or in the corner which will be an attractive quality for any NHL team. He can also score some breathtaking goals too.
The Leafs go into the off-season with a lot of uncertainty regarding the salary cap so if they have to cut salary, getting a player like Barabanov could help offset a player that had to be moved if they can get him at a reasonable price. Whether it’s an Alexander Kerfoot or Andreas Johnsson who have been possible trade candidates.
What Kyle Dubas might have to do to is use the Leafs financial muscle to give Barabanov a signing bonus that will pay a good part of his salary. This would not only show the Leafs’ commitment to giving him a chance to make the NHL but tip the scales in their favour because it might not be something the Coyotes are willing to do.
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Do you think the Leafs can convince Barabanov to sign with them? What type of deal would you offer him? Let us know in the comments below.