The Toronto Maple Leafs recently signed defenseman Jani Hakanpaa to a two-year contract worth $1.5 million per season. However, according to a report by Toronto Sun reporter Steve Simmons, there are concerns that Hakanpaa may never play another NHL game due to a serious knee injury. Hakanpaa last played on March 16 and ended the season injured, but despite this, Toronto signed him as a free agent. Simmons’ sources suggest that the knee injury is severe, possibly “bone-on-bone,” which raises doubts about his future in the league.
Simmons noted that while the Leafs believe Hakanpaa is healthy and capable of playing in the upcoming season, there is skepticism among others in the NHL. The 32-year-old defenseman, known for his penalty-killing prowess and defensive abilities, has played 288 regular-season games since making his NHL debut in the 2019-20 season with the Anaheim Ducks. The Leafs’ general manager, Brad Treliving, emphasized Hakanpaa’s potential contributions to their penalty kill but acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his health.
Despite the signing, the Maple Leafs are currently over the salary cap and may need to make trades to address their roster balance. They now have nine NHL defensemen under contract, providing flexibility and options for the coaching staff as they plan for the upcoming season.
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