Main Photo by: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Conor Timmins has signed a two-year deal, worth $2.2 million for an AAV of $1.1 million with the Toronto Maple Leafs. This is a very underrated move by Leafs General Manager Kyle Dubas. Dubas has found a valuable asset and rewarded him accordingly. The Timmins signing solidifies the Leafs backend for a push deep into spring hockey.
🖊 We’ve signed defenceman Conor Timmins to a two-year contract extension
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) February 9, 2023
Conor Timmins Signs Two-Year Deal with Leafs
Since coming over from the Arizona Coyotes in late November, Timmins has done a dandy job on the blue line. So far, he has racked up one goal, along with 11 assists for 12 points in 18 games for the Leafs. He has played 16:29 TOI over that span and a very nice 4.3 CF% Rel. Before coming to Toronto, he had only suited up in two games for the Coyotes this season. Furthermore, that was coming off last year, which only saw him appear in six games. That was when an injury requiring season-ending surgery on his knee cost him the season.
What This Means in Toronto
The Leafs defence has been battered this season. Besides Mark Giordano and Justin Holl who have each suited up for all 52 games, the Leafs defence has missed some time. For example, Jake Muzzin has only played in four games before back problems derailed his season. Another player is Jordie Benn, along with injuries and inconsistent play has not been able to provide the Leafs with the support they required.
The stability that Timmins has been able to bring to the line-up has been welcomed and has been nothing short of invaluable. T.J. Brodie, who has played in 30 games this year, seems to have found success playing alongside Timmins. When paired together they have a very respectable 60.5% xGoals% according to Moneypuck.com. Another reason for the Leafs success this season has been the emergence of Timothy Liljegren. Liljegren has been paired with many partners this year, but mostly with Rasmus Sandin. Together, they also boast an ideal xGoals% at 60.9%. With the added depth and reliability that Timmins has shown, the Leafs can feel prepared for the playoffs in 2022-23.
