Toronto Maple Leafs: The tough decision on Zach Hyman’s future

As we get closer and closer to free agency, the Toronto Maple Leafs will be looking to shake things up this off-season have to make a decision on Zach Hyman’s future.

There aren’t many people who wouldn’t take Hyman on their team and he’s been one of the best under-the-radar additions the Leafs have made. He was picked up in exchange for Greg McKegg after Florida was unable to get him signed to a contract.

In his time with the Leafs, Hyman has proven that he can score 15 to 20 goals and 40 points, be a top penalty killer and play an important supporting role as a relentless forechecker. The intangibles he brings are something the Leafs don’t have a lot of and certainly value but the real debate going on right now is determining what type of contract Hyman could get on the open market.

Many believe that Hyman can get $5 million to $6 million on the open market on a long-term deal. Unfortunately, the Leafs’ current salary cap situation makes that a tough fit.

It’s not unrealistic to think Hyman could consider a hometown discount given his desire to remain in Toronto. He has also earned his right to test free agency and get a nice payday considering this might be his only chance when you consider the injuries he’s dealt with the last few years.