**Toronto Maple Leafs Eyeing Defenders Montour and Tanev for Offseason Boost**
Nick Kypreos recently reported in the Toronto Star that the Toronto Maple Leafs are interested in acquiring Brandon Montour and Chris Tanev. Montour has spent the last four years with the Florida Panthers, reaching the Stanley Cup Final twice in a row. Tanev, who was traded to the Dallas Stars at the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, previously played for the Calgary Flames under Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving. Both players are expected to enter free agency, with NHL pro scouts actively seeking top free-agent targets as July 1 approaches.
Kypreos highlighted the Leafs’ intentions: “It’s no secret the Leafs will be targeting Florida’s Montour if the pending free agent remains unsigned after this Cup final,” he wrote. “Chris Tanev is another name that never left Treliving’s radar.”
If these acquisitions occur, Treliving’s strategy of building from the blue line out will continue with his new team. With the salary cap increasing by $4.5 million, Toronto has $18.8 million in projected cap space heading into the 2024 offseason.
### Montour & Tanev’s Potential Impact in Toronto
The addition of Montour and Tanev would significantly bolster the Maple Leafs’ defense. Montour has proven his reliability as a two-way defenseman with the Panthers, particularly in the playoffs. His right-handed shot would complement Morgan Rielly, potentially forming the best defensive pairing Rielly has had since starting his career in 2012.
Tanev, known for his physicality, shot-blocking, and relentless play, is a perfect fit for the Leafs. He excels as a penalty killer and would pair well with Jake McCabe as a shutdown duo. Treliving attempted to acquire Tanev at last season’s deadline but lacked the necessary assets. Now, he has a second chance to bring Tanev to Toronto and strengthen the blue line.
### Predicting Contracts for Montour & Tanev
Projecting the contracts for Montour and Tanev is challenging. Montour could command upwards of $7 million per season and might re-sign with the Panthers. If he enters free agency, many teams will vie for his services. The Maple Leafs could offer a $7 million per year deal over seven seasons to secure him.
Tanev, at 34 years old, won’t demand as high a salary, which benefits the Maple Leafs. While the Stars may try to re-sign him, Tanev will likely be a priority for Toronto if he tests the market. A four- to five-year contract with an annual value between $4.5 and $5.5 million would be a sensible offer for Tanev.
### Strategic Allocation of Cap Space
Defense is the Maple Leafs’ most pressing need. With $18.8 million in projected cap space, they must allocate a significant portion to their blue line to avoid repeating past shortcomings. Signing Montour and Tanev to the predicted contracts would leave Toronto with around $6-7 million to address the rest of the roster, including securing a goaltender to partner with Joseph Woll.
By targeting Montour and Tanev, the Maple Leafs aim to reinforce their defense, providing the stability and depth required for a stronger playoff push.
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