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News will come fast and furious when Noon hits on July 1, and the Toronto Maple Leafs already have been busy.
Here is the latest and my quick thoughts:
Max Domi re-signed, 4 years x $3.75 million
This is a good value deal compared to the amount that was floated after the playoffs ($6 million). Domi fit in well especially in the second half and playoffs on the wing with Auston Matthews and got term for a haircut on the AAV.
Timothy Liljegren re-signed, 2 years x $3 million
The chatter around Vegas was that the Leafs were considering not qualifying the 25-year-old because they were concerned about what Liljegren would get in arbitration after posting 23 points in 55 games. The factors here are he is a righty and at $3 million AAV, GM Brad Treliving would likely not have a problem trading him if he chose to go another direction in free agency.
Tyler Bertuzzi going to Chicago
It was likely either Domi or Bertuzzi and not both, since Treliving is prioritizing upgrading on the blueline. There was long reported to be mutual interest, but the reported deal with the Hawks (4 x $5 to $5.5 million AAV) was too rich for Toronto’s blood)
Chris Tanev signed, 6 years x $4.5 million AAV
After the trade for his rights on Saturday, it was a foregone conclusion that the Leafs would get the deal consummated with the 34-year-old blueliner. Although the details have not been released as of yet, it would be surprising if this deal is not significantly front-loaded to give Tanev as much of the money upfront.
OEL rumors
Darren Dreger reports that the Leafs could be adding free agent Oliver Ekman-Larsson on a shorter-term deal. The 32-year-old had a solid bounce-back year in Florida (9 goals, 23 assists) and playoffs and one unconfirmed report indicated that a deal would be in the 3 years x $4 million range. Don’t underestimate the influence of former teammate Shane Doan if this happens.
Robertson, Dewar, Steeves qualified, Gregor not qualified
No big surprises here, Gregor could be back at the veteran minimum. Robertson per Chris Johnston said he does not plan to re-sign with the Leafs and wants to be traded, but short of an offer sheet, he has no leverage. Unless a team gives Treliving good value for a kid who can score, this could be a standoff that lasts a while.
Toronto Maple Leafs Blogger • 
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