Breaking News: Maple Leafs Secure Another Star in Landmark Deal
The Toronto Maple Leafs and goaltender Laurent Brossoit have shown mutual interest in a potential deal if he reaches unrestricted free agency on July 1, according to James Mirtle of The Athletic.
Brossoit, 31, is expected to seek a larger role after making 22 starts last season as a backup to Connor Hellebuyck with the Winnipeg Jets. Despite his limited appearances, Brossoit posted impressive numbers with a .927 save percentage (SV%), a 2.00 goals-against average (GAA), and three shutouts. However, given his lack of experience in a tandem role, he won’t demand a hefty contract.
Those 22 starts marked a career high for the veteran netminder, who has just completed his 10th NHL season. His career stats (.911 SV%, 2.64 GAA) compare favorably with other top goaltenders available on the market, such as Anthony Stolarz and Cam Talbot. Over the past 18 months, Brossoit has arguably been the best pure backup in the league.
Last season, Brossoit was part of the Stanley Cup-winning Vegas Golden Knights. He began the year on the injured list and was assigned to the minors upon his return in November. However, he fought his way back to the NHL, recording a .927 SV% in 10 starts and one relief appearance.
Brossoit earned the starting position in Game 1 of the Golden Knights’ postseason against the Jets, but an injury sidelined him and allowed Adin Hill to take over. Despite this setback, Brossoit had reaffirmed his status as a valuable NHL goaltender.
Mirtle suggests that a short-term deal worth around $3 million annually is a realistic expectation for Brossoit. This figure aligns with what Anthony Stolarz, who posted a .925 SV% in 27 appearances behind Sergei Bobrovsky in Florida, might also command.
Brossoit is expected to replace Ilya Samsonov, who will enter free agency and is not anticipated to return to Toronto. Samsonov had been a serviceable but inconsistent presence for the Maple Leafs over the past two seasons, though he did help them secure their first playoff series win of the Auston Matthews era against the Lightning in 2023.
In Toronto, Brossoit would likely see a new career high in starts, assuming he remains healthy. He would share duties with the younger Joseph Woll, who is projected to become the Leafs’ long-term starter. Woll, limited to 25 games last year due to injuries, posted a respectable .907 SV% and has performed well in brief playoff appearances over the last two seasons.
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