Maple Leafs Extend Intriguing Offer to 6-Foot-3 Free Agent Forward

The weekend before training camps open for the upcoming NHL season, teams across the league will be hosting their rookie showcase tournaments.

Last year, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens faced off in a pair of games, but this year's showcase will feature two additional teams in the Ottawa Senators and Winnipeg Jets.

Some teams have already announced their rosters for their respective tournaments, but the Leafs are not one of them. However, we do know at least one player that will be suiting up for the blue and white September 13th and 14th.

Drafted in the fourth round in 2023, Alex Pharand did not a contract offer from the Blackhawks this summer, making him a free agent. As a result, the Leafs have jumped at the chance to get a closer look at the 6'3" winger, inviting him to their June development camp.

The 20-year-old Pharand seemed to impress the Leafs enough that they have now offered him a spot on their Rookie Showcase roster.

Pharand has spent the last four of his seasons in the Ontario Hockey League with him hometown Sudbury Wolves and put up an impressive 17 goals and 59 points in his over-age season.

At 6'3 and 192-pounds, he certainly fits the mold of a Brad Treliving type of player and has shown that he can contribute offensively.

As the Leafs continue to try to restock their prospect pool, Pharand will be one to watch in September as he is pro eligible and could be a viable AHL or ECHL option. A strong performance at the showcase tournament could lead to an entry-level or AHL contract offer from the Leafs.