Breaking: Maple Leafs Reportedly Eye Lightning Defender
Matt Dumba was acquired by the Tampa Bay Lightning from the Arizona Coyotes at the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline. All things considered, it was a wise decision because the Lightning needed to strengthen their defense overall and on the right side.
But with little cap room heading into the summer, Dumba might test the free-agent market this offseason. The re-signing of Steven Stamkos will be the Lightning’s first priority; Anthony Duclair may also return.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are one team that is probably going to be interested in Dumba if he does decide to enter the market. Both in the previous offseason and as the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline drew closer, they were strongly associated with him.
The right side of the Maple Leafs’ defense is obviously in need of improvement as the summer approaches. Therefore, they might be interested in signing a tough veteran like Dumba again who can play significant minutes.
Dumba could potentially play second pairing minutes if the Maple Leafs signed him. But even with him on their bottom pairing, their defense would be strengthened. If signed, he would also seem like a natural match for their penalty kill.
The Maple Leafs won’t be the only team after Dumba if the Lightning decide not to bring him back because right-shot defensemen with grit are highly valued by NHL teams. It will be interesting to watch where he goes from here this summer.