Insider Chris Johnston gives update on free agent defenceman linked to Toronto Maple Leafs

The Athletics' Chris Johnston provided an update on Hakanpaa and the idea that he'd be willing to see things through.

Johnston explained.

If Hakanpaa can join the Maple Leafs he would likely be fighting for the seventh defenceman spot with Connor Timmins. The Maple Leafs sit $1.5 million under the salary cap and the defenceman was slated to make $1.5 million. Not to mention Nick Robertson who is currently without a contract but has requested a trade from Toronto. But the Maple Leafs still need to make a deal to give themselves a little more flexibility.

In 66 games for the Dallas Stars, Hakanpaa had 2 goals, with ten assists while averaging over 18 minutes of ice time a night. So, it's evident if he gets healthy, he can be a minute's eater. He also can skate on the penalty kill while possessing the toughness the Toronto Maple Leafs have lacked for so long. By the end of last season, he had 196 hits along with 123 blocked shots.

If he lands in Toronto, he certainly can help. If for some reason, he doesn't can Brad Treliving be blamed for a mistake that realistically should not have happened?

Source - The Leafs Nation