NHL analyst Michael Mazzei from TheLeafsNation suggests that the Toronto Maple Leafs should consider signing free agent forward Dominik Kubalik. Despite losing Tyler Bertuzzi to the Chicago Blackhawks in free agency, the Maple Leafs have yet to bolster their forward lineup. Alberga argues that bringing in Kubalik would be a smart move for the team.
With an obvious need for additional depth on the left wing, Kubalik could propel himself into a top-six role and secure minutes on the second power-play unit. Assuming he can earn a spot out of camp, he could help fill the void left behind by Tyler Bertuzzi in terms of net-front presence and offense at a much-reduced price. The soon-to-be 29-year-old would certainly be motivated to revitalize his career and a competitive team like the Leafs could be the ideal place for him to seek that second chance,” Mazzei wrote.
Kubalik has had a very up-and-down NHL career, but as Mazzei writes, he could help fill the void of Bertuzzi leaving. The 28-year-old has skated in 357 NHL games recording 93 goals and 83 assists for 176 points.
Kubalik’s best season came in his rookie season with the Blackhawks as he recorded 30 goals and 16 assists for 46 points in 68 games. Since then, he has been inconsistent as last year, he recorded 11 goals and 4 assists for 15 points in 74 games with the Ottawa Senators.
Kubalik Could Replace Nick Robertson
The signing of Kubalik could also help be a good replacement if Nick Robertson does indeed not sign with Toronto and gets traded.
Robertson is an RFA and has told the Maple Leafs he has no plans to re-sign as he has asked for a trade. If Robertson stands firm on that, Toronto could trade the former second-round pick and then sign Kubalik to be his replacement at left wing.
However, Toronto general manager Brad Treliving has made it clear he believes Robertson will be a part of the Maple Leafs roster this upcoming season.
“Obviously, I have known that there was some frustration with Nick, but we look at Nick as an excellent player,” Treliving said on July 1. “There’s a great opportunity for Nick here. We need him to be a good player for us.”
