Toronto Maple Leafs Shut Down Rumors Of Chasing Western Captain

The Toronto Maple Leafs are not likely to land Anaheim Ducks captain Radko Gudas, according to NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman.

What happened?

The Maple Leafs were linked to Gudas, who has a complicated history with the team, including a questionable knee on knee hit to captain Auston Matthews.

The team has made numerous changes under new general manager John Chayka, including acquiring goaltender Samuel Ersson and defenseman Emil Andrae from the Philadelphia Flyers.

Why it matters for Toronto Maple Leafs

Gudas is a pending unrestricted free agent after wrapping up his three-year, $12 million contract with the Ducks.

The Maple Leafs are currently standing 15th in Eastern Conference with a 32-36 record, on a L7 streak as of June 25.

What comes next?

Friedman stated on his "32 Thoughts" podcast that he doesn't foresee Gudas landing with the Maple Leafs, despite the team's recent changes.

And the Maple Leafs fans won't soon forget how Gudas celebrated in the face of now-former Toronto goaltender Joseph Woll after an overtime goal.

But Chayka has been active in making changes to the franchise, including acquiring and signing defenseman Darren Raddysh from the Tampa Bay Lightning.

So the team's focus is on rebuilding and improving their current roster.

The Maple Leafs will look to bounce back from their current losing streak and improve their standing in the Eastern Conference.