Toronto Maple Leafs: What to do with each pending unrestricted free agent

Kyle Clifford

When the Leafs traded for Jack Campbell, getting Clifford as part of the deal was going to provide the team with an element they needed.

General manager Kyle Dubas realized his team needed something different in the lineup, which is why Clifford was seen as a key piece of the trade. However, it’s been tough to gauge what his impact on the ice has been since joining.

We have heard how Clifford is trying to add a much-needed veteran voice considering his experience with the LA Kings. That is a valuable asset but at the same time, the Kings have always been well regarded for their possession play and Clifford has not brought that to Toronto.

There has been a big push against bringing Clifford back especially if he is asking for roughly the same deal he got from the Kings, where he made $1.6 million a season. There is no saying what the 29-year-old is looking for in his next deal and the Leafs will have to decide if it’s worth re-signing him and giving up a second-round pick instead of a third.

Dubas seemed to realize what the Leafs were missing with a player like Clifford and while he doesn’t provide flash, he still can have a role going forward which is why they should try to bring him back and keep it at around the $1.5 million range.