Toronto Maple Leafs Free Agent Defence Targets for the 2024 Offseason

The Toronto Maple Leafs are gearing up for a busy offseason, and one of the top priorities is addressing their defence. With the potential departure of Morgan Rielly, the team needs to add some depth to their blue line. John Chayka, the team's general manager, is expected to make some key moves to improve the team's defensive corps. One way to do this is by signing a top free agent defenceman. Three names have emerged as potential targets for the Leafs: Darren Raddysh, Andrew Peeke, and Mario Ferraro. Raddysh, a 30-year-old defenceman from the Tampa Bay Lightning, had a breakout season with 22 goals and 70 points. He could bring a much-needed offensive spark to the Leafs' top-six. However, his asking price may be steep, with some reports suggesting he could command a salary in the range of $7.5-$8 million. A four-year deal could be a more suitable option for both parties. Another option is Andrew Peeke, a 28-year-old defenceman from the Boston Bruins. He brings a physical presence to the ice and could be a great fit on the third pairing. Peeke's asking price is expected to be lower, with some reports suggesting a three- or four-year deal in the range of $3-3.35 million. Mario Ferraro, a 27-year-old defenceman from the San Jose Sharks, is also on the radar. He's a Toronto native and has a dogged mentality on the ice. He's a left-handed-shooting defenceman who can score and hit. A five- to six-year contract in the range of $5-6 million could be a good fit for both parties. The Leafs need to find a balance between offence and defence, and Ferraro could bring that mobility to the back end. With these options on the table, the Leafs are poised to make some big moves this offseason.