The Tampa Bay Lightning and Colorado Avalanche are still fighting for the holy grail. As we inch closer and closer to the seasons end, the offseason grows and grows. While a lot of it is speculation, some things come to life and paint a picture of what is to come. Being one of the biggest markets in Canada comes at a price and an ongoing storyline. Today’s NHL rumours focus on the Toronto Maple Leafs. They have two players to think about with offering money to, and one of them is Ilya Mikheyev.
NHL Rumour: Toronto Maple Leafs Winger Seeking A Raise
Rumour: Chris Johnston reports that the Toronto Maple Leafs haven’t reached out to Ilya Mikheyev. The winger is seeking somewhere between $4-5M.
Toronto could be in a pickle. Everyone is aware of the salary cap situation they have and there is only so much to go around. They need a goalie and also need to pay this young winger they currently have. Even though they have not reached out, Kyle Dubas may be doing some financial homework to make the pieces fit his puzzle.
Is He Worth The Raise He Seeks
The NHL rumours surround Toronto Maple Leafs winger Ilya Mikheyev. Mikheyev spent his short career with the Leafs and has improved with each passing season. This season saw his best version of himself as he set career highs in every statistical category. In 53 games played this season, he went on to score 21 goals, 11 assists, and 32 points.
.@SportChek Player Alert: The @MapleLeafs have signed forward Ilya Mikheyev to a one-year entry level contract.
Details >> https://t.co/MrujEScZp1#LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/9stMZ1wezs
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) May 6, 2019
He would finish the year in the top 10 in points on the team. The young winger carried a 61% on-ice goals percentage and a 55% Corsi For Percentage. The young gun was a player that would move up and down the lineup. He caught the most fire alongside John Tavares and Alexander Kerfoot. As a line, they would average 3.02 goals for per 60 minutes. There is offensive upside in his game, especially if he is playing with the right players.
Can The Toronto Maple Leafs Make It Work?
It is tough to say if Toronto can make this work. But the Toronto Maple Leafs winger is due for a raise. Goaltender Jack Campbell needs a new deal and if they opt not to sign him, they could use that cap space on Mikheyev. But even in the event that they do not sign Campbell, they still need a goaltender. At the end of the day, there is not enough money to go around, and Toronto management will have to get creative to keep the band together. Ilya Mikheyev is a good talent, and if Toronto can’t keep the young winger, another will snatch him up.
