The Toronto Maple Leafs made significant efforts to strengthen their defensive depth this offseason by signing Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson to long-term contracts. However, they also pursued another top-tier defender who declined their offer. Brandon Montour, who had a stellar season with the Florida Panthers and played a key role in their Stanley Cup victory, was a target. As his contract with the Panthers was expiring, there was concern he might leave, which he did, opting instead to sign a long-term deal with the Seattle Kraken. Montour revealed in a recent statement that he considered the Maple Leafs’ offer but ultimately decided against it. Although the Maple Leafs made impressive moves this offseason, missing out on Montour is a disappointment.
Montour joins a strong Kraken team aiming for a postseason run in the 2024-25 season. With solid offseason acquisitions, the Kraken have the potential to make the playoffs, and Montour’s veteran presence could be crucial for their success. While the Maple Leafs should be satisfied with their offseason moves, including re-signing Max Domi, signing Anthony Stolarz, and enhancing their defensive lineup, adding Montour could have been the final touch to elevate them from contenders to favorites. Despite missing out on Montour, the Maple Leafs’ fans have reason to be optimistic about a deep playoff run.
Where Would Montour Have Fit With the Maple Leafs?
Montour’s decision not to sign with the Maple Leafs after considering their offer will leave some fans wondering what could have been if he had joined the team. He would likely have fit well into the second defensive pairing on the right side alongside his former Panther teammate, Ekman-Larsson. Instead, Timothy Liljegren is expected to step into the top-four group. While this isn’t a bad option, the team would have been stronger with the 30-year-old Stanley Cup champion on their roster.
Montour’s defensive skills and strong offensive production from last season would have been a valuable addition to the Maple Leafs. He recorded eight goals and 25 assists for 33 points in 66 games with the Panthers and added 11 points in 24 playoff games. As a veteran fresh off a championship win, Montour is exactly the type of player Maple Leafs fans would have loved to see bolster their team both on and off the ice.
The reasons behind Montour’s decision not to sign with the Maple Leafs are known only to him. Despite this, the Maple Leafs are close to being contenders. They play in an excellent arena and have some of the most loyal fans in the NHL. Their current roster is strong enough to make a push for the Stanley Cup this season, even without Montour. With a couple of months remaining before the regular season starts, the Maple Leafs still have time to make additional moves to strengthen their defensive depth if needed, so there is no reason to panic.
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