Kasperi Kapanen's price is the moon

The Maple Leafs have received multiple expressions of interest in Kapanen. But with the emergence of Rasmus Sandin, there is not such a hurry to get it done. The Leafs are so pleased with Rasmus that Kapenen's price is no longer a song. In fact, the Leafs would take a three or very good four defencemen. The Maple Leafs want a hockey trade instead of a cap trade for two reasons. One is the cap; the other is the new sensation, Rasmus Sandin.

The Leafs feel once Morgan Reilly is back, they can live with the defence if they can not land a trade for Kasperi Kapanen. Jake Muzzin is back and should get the rust off soon. With Rasmus playing like he belongs, the Leafs are quite comfortable with their top six. Don't get me wrong; if they can find a hockey trade for him, they will. But they are willing to wait for it.

The Maple Leafs have inquired about Alexander Georgiev. They were told Kapanen+. The Maple Leafs feel the price is too high for now. I am sure they will return to see if the price goes down. They know they need an upgrade in the backup goalie area. Again, they are not going to mortgage the farm to acquire one.

There is a major concern with Andersen being overworked. Michael Hutchinson is going to have to improve his play so Andersen can get his rest in between starts. Or the Leafs may have to bite the bullet and pay the asking price.

There is a concern the team is playing to lose. Sheldon Keefe realizes there is a need to shore up the play in the defensive zone. Come playoff time, there will be a lot more focus on the defensive play. The defensive leaders, Muzzin, Reilly, and Ceci will have to set the example. The leaders on the forwards, Marner, Matthews, and Tavares, must continue to come back to their end. The defence needs support from the forwards if things are to improve. If Keefe can't get results the Leafs, they will have to explore the need for new defencemen sooner rather than later.

Randy