Maple Leafs Confirmed as One of Four Finalists to Sign 3-Time Stanley Cup Winner

While fans and teams are gearing up for July's free agent window, there's one player in particular who is expected to make his decision prior to that time that has several contending teams waiting, including the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Former Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews, is attempting his comeback to the NHL after missing two years due to symptoms related to his bout with COVID-19. It was mentioned that he was likely to make his decision closer to the draft, and at this moment, the Leafs remain in the hunt, according to TSN's Darren Dreger.

It's going to be tough sledding for Brad Treliving and company as they are set to go toe-to-toe with Colorado, Tampa Bay, and Winnipeg, who all pose threats for different reasons. Winnipeg could pose the biggest threat, considering their interest in the Manitoba native dating back to his final days as a member of the Chicago Blackhawks.

With Mitch Marner expected to walk in free agency, question marks remaining on John Tavares' future with the club, and the Leafs' need for depth at the centre position, Toews would present Toronto with a very unique opportunity to acquire a former top-flight player with a championship pedigree and leadership qualities at a low cost.

Toews hasn't played since the season finale in 2022-23 after finishing the year with 15 goals and 31 points in 53 contests. He was forced into missing the entirety of the 2020-21 season and struggled mightily upon his return. However, the 37-year-old is back at full health and ready to help.

He's accumulated 372 goals and 883 points in 1,087 regular season games, while adding an additional 45 goals and 119 points in 137 playoff games with 3 Stanley Cups and a Conn Smythe Trophy.

Look for Toronto to remain in the mix until the 11th hour as they hope to enlist his services ahead of a very important 2025-26 campaign.