Martin Jones has a new contract in place. After spending the past season with the Seattle Kraken, he joins the Toronto Maple Leafs. He will be in Toronto for one year and make $875K for the entire contract. This is a great insurance move for the team to shore up its crease.
The Maple Leafs have signed goaltender Martin Jones to a one-year, $875K deal. ✍️ pic.twitter.com/oXahEAfMx3
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) August 9, 2023
Jones Lands New Contract With Toronto
New general manager Brad Treliving has been busy this summer. After making big splash signings with Tyler Bertuzzi, Max Domi, and John Klingberg, he has turned his attention to the goal crease. Starting goaltender Ilya Samsonov was rewarded $3.55 million in arbitration, but the backup position is open for the taking.
Jones is coming off a tough season where he finished with a 2.99 goals-against average and a .886 save percentage. He was the worst goaltender on the Kraken in these categories. In addition, he finished with a -6.9 goals saved above expected, which was also last among team goalies. His better days may be behind him, but he is still serviceable and can have a place on this roster.
What This Means
For the Leafs
The Martin Jones contract makes perfect sense for the Maple Leafs. Samsonov was coming off a strong season and helped backstop the team to its first-round victory since 2004. However, it is important he does not run out of gas and lose steam in his engine.
Matt Murray is on long-term injured reserve, and the team needs a backup goaltender. Young goalie Justin Woll had a strong showing in seven games and has respectable numbers to go along with it. In addition, he shined brightly in the playoffs when he filled in for Samsonov.
If the team sees that Woll needs time to develop, Jones can be plugged in. The team is deep upfront, but goaltending needs reinforcements.
For Jones
The Martin Jones contract is significant for the player. He can potentially play on a contending team and continue his hockey career. Even though he has bounced around the last few seasons, he gets the security of one season this year. The sky is the limit for Jones, and playing on a good team can improve his numbers.
Main Photo: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
