One way or another, the log jam up front for the Maple Leafs will be solved over the next 10 days or so.
At this point, there are a bunch of different scenarios that could potentially play out, but, for a variety of reasons, Toronto pulling off a trade prior to the season opener would make a lot of sense.
With all that in mind, I think the Leafs would really regret it if they elected to move veteran forward Calle Jarnkrok.
Over the weekend, the 33-year-old’s name surfaced, among others, as a potential trade piece. He still has two years left on his deal at $2.1 million per season.
It’s funny, a year ago at this time, everyone was applauding the four-year contract that Kyle Dubas handed the winger back in the summer of 2022. Now, there’s a good portion of Leafs Nation that wouldn’t bat an eye if he was traded.
That’s because Jarnkrok, who was limited to just 52 regular season contests last season, is coming off a brutal showing in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Even though he suited up in all seven games against Boston, he incredibly failed to register a point. Not to speak for the vet, but there was no way he was fully healthy. If you recall, Jarnkrok missed considerable time before returning for Game 1 against the Bruins. In no way am I giving him a free pass, but unquestionably, I think it’s important to acknowledge that information.
Throughout his career, when healthy, Jarnkrok has proven time and time again that he’s a useful player. He’s fast, crafty, and versatile. It’s easy to forget it but he’s just a year removed from a career-high 20-goal campaign, which took place in year No. 1 in Toronto. Over and above all that, he shoots right, something the Leafs are lacking in their top nine. Furthermore, I love the fact that he can play anywhere in the lineup. Comparatively speaking, the same cannot be said for the likes of Nick Robertson, Pontus Holmberg, and David Kampf.
In the grand scheme of things, I’m good with the Leafs moving some bodies out, I just want them to be smart about it.
