Six-Foot-Five, 220-Pound Defenseman to Hit Waivers on Saturday Could Interest the Leafs

As the Toronto Maple Leafs prepare for the start of the season next week, a very intriguing player has become available for absolutely nothing as he will hit the waiver wire on Saturday, per a report from NHL Insider Chris Johnston.

Ex-Leafs GM Kyle Dubas' Pittsburgh Penguins will place veteran defenseman Ryan Graves on waivers this weekend, which presents Brad Treliving with a unique opportunity.

As per Chris Johnston on X:

While Graves' contract does have some term left, his $4.5 million cap hit may raise some alarms, especially for a Leafs team who wants to keep money open for next summer. However, just a few seasons ago, he held a top-four role, which could entice the Leafs to take a chance here.

Graves is coming off of a disappointing year in Pittsburgh where he registered only four points in 61 games and posted a -15 rating in a reduced role on what was, frankly, a struggling Penguins team.

Although he's not known for his offensive production, Graves is a two-way defender recognized for his shot-blocking and physical play. It's worth noting that before joining the Penguins, he contributed more offensively, surpassing the 20-point mark three times.

It appears the Penguins have been shopping Graves for some time, but with no takers, he's now landed on waivers, which could make him a more attractive option, knowing that teams would not have to give anything up to nab him.

Graves' size and physicality are certainly attributes that this current Leafs regime is noted to covet, therefore giving Treliving and Berube something to consider if they have any doubts about anyone on their current blueline.

This could prove to be a potential steal for any NHL club -- and the Maple Leafs should consider pouncing, not only for Graves' abilities, but also for the added satisfaction of getting one up on their former GM in the process.