Photo Credits: Greg Flume/Getty Images
Two weeks out from NHL free agency, the league has been quiet since most big-name UFAs are off the market. Players such as Alexander Barabanov, Cal Clutterbuck, Daniel Sprong, and Nick Cousins are still available in the forward department.
The Toronto Maple Leafs still need to add a forward or two to their bottom six, as Matthew Knies and Bobby McMann can be key contributors to the Leafs’ top six. One player who would be a solid addition to the team and a significant part of their power play is James van Riemsdyk.
A reunion between JVR and the Leafs makes sense, as Brad Treliving likes his big players, and van Riemsdyk can still play at a high level and contribute to the team. Van Riemsdyk played six seasons for the Maple Leafs from 2013-2018. In 413 games with the Leafs, JVR had 154 goals and 140 assists for 294 points.
Van Riemsdyk had career seasons in Toronto that haven’t been seen since he left. JVR signed with the Philadelphia Flyers in 2018, but in his five seasons with the Flyers, he struggled with injuries and didn’t put up the same numbers as he did with the Leafs.
The Boston Bruins signed Van Riemsdyk to a one-year contract last season, and in 71 games, Van Riemsdyk had a bit of a career resurgence. He scored 11 goals and 27 assists for 38 points. He was a crucial part of the Bruins’ power play, getting six goals and six assists for 12 power-play points. JVR had one goal and five assists in 11 games in the playoffs.
Adding JVR back into a mature Leafs lineup could do wonders for the Maple Leafs, especially on the power play, where he would provide a strong presence in front of the net. As Leafs fans know and remember, van Riemsdyk was a specialist on the power play during his time in Toronto.
Signing JVR to a league-minimum contract would make the most sense for both sides.
Bringing in someone like Van Riemsdyk would be beneficial, as he is a veteran in the league with great experience. Playing with someone like Max Domi on the third line could create a great connection. Given his age, Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube would certainly know how to utilize Van Riemsdyk to the best of his abilities.
I am sure Maple Leafs’ fans would welcome a reunion with JVR, given he was a fan favourite during his time with Toronto.
