Loads of speculation begin swirling around for a former Blackhawks defenseman
Former Blackhawk defenseman Jake McCabe seems to have found a new home in Toronto, long-term. As the 32TP's Elliotte Friedman reported it the team is working on an extension.
McCabe's contract will be expiring soon, as the team believes he fits the new culture in Toronto well.
"I believe they've had some conversation with Jake McCabe about extending him," Friedman said. "I think he's perfect for them. I think he's exactly the kind of player they need. I don't know where this is going to go, but I do believe they've had some conversations about extending McCabe. We'll see."
McCabe has been one of Toronto's best defensemen since his arrival in 2023. He was part of a packaged trade, arriving with Sam Lafferty, with two 5th-round picks, in 2024 and 2025.
McCabe has scored 33 points( 9 G, 24 A) in his last 94 games in Toronto, and has accumulated 219 hits. He ranked third in TOI in Toronto, with 23:09 per game. His playoff performances have been stellar as well, with 3 points( 1 G, 2 A) in 18 games. He also posted 21:24 TOI against the Boston Bruins in the playoffs, one of the highest averages on the team.
It is a priority for the Leafs to sign this hard-nosed defenseman, as in 2025 he could walk to free agency. Friedman has reported that talks are underway.
Trade him?
Some feel that it'd be best to utilize McCabe's current value to gain assets in trade, however.
With a $2 Million dollar cap hit, he could be moved easily as an valuable asset.
"At the peak of his value and with the best reputation he's ever had since breaking into the NHL over a decade ago, and with an absolute sweet-heart of a deal, the Leafs should capitalize and trade Jake McCabe right now," Tanner wrote on Aug. 30 (via editorinleaf.com).
"McCabe is a good player and a very solid second pairing player. He is versitile, he hits, and he's good defensively."
With a limited $1.2 Million dollars in cap space, signing options aren't so plentiful. While other options are being considered, Toronto will attempt to find another asset to improve its roster.
Source: Sportskeeda
NHL Rumor: Top insider speculates Jake McCabe's contract extension with Maple Leafs
| POLL |
Should the Maple Leafs trade Jack McCabe? |
| Yes | 36 | 62.1 % |
| No | 22 | 37.9 % |
| List of polls |
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