Toronto Maple Leafs: A Swedish Defender To Look At
The Toronto Maple Leafs brought over Nikita Zaitsev for just the cost of his contract – and moves like this are growing in popularity.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are linked to another Russian right now, though in its infancy as a rumor, but that shouldn’t be the only player they’re looking at.
Picking up players in European leagues – mainly Sweden and Russia’s top leagues – is a great way to get young players who have developed at the professional level.
Calle Rosen – Växjö Lakers HC (SHL)
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In a recent article on www.hockeysverige.se, Rosen revealed that he is generating some interest from NHL teams. Here’s the quick and dirty translation of what Rosen said:
“I have received signals that there are some who are interested. I feel quite clearly remain here in Växjö and develop, it is best for me. That I maintain. How it will be next season, you never know, but I have a contract with Växjö another season and that’s what I focus on.” (Hockey Sverige)
Rosen is in his second full-time season in Sweden’s top hockey league. He recorded 14 points in 52 games last year and currently has 18 points in 37 games this season.
The 23 year old defender is a left shot, which doesn’t satisfy the Leafs need for the right side, but that doesn’t mean he should be overlooked. He’s generating interest for a reason.
In 17 Champions HL games over the past two seasons, Rosen has 10 points. In 13 playoff games last year he had five. There’s an offensive upside to the blueliner.
Where does he fit with the Toronto Maple Leafs? Well, that depends on what they plan on doing with their defensive group beyond Rielly long-term.
There’s nothing preventing Gardiner or Rielly from playing the right side. They’re both smart enough players. A left-right pairing is ideal, but it’s not an exact requirement. If Rosen is good enough to be an NHL defender then find room for him to get a look.
The cost to acquire is free.
