NHL Rumors: Free Agent Sam Gagner Linked to 2 Teams

Veteran forward Sam Gagner wants to play next season as he's creeping closer to 1000 NHL games. One problem, he currently does not have a contract as the offseason continues into the final weeks. Training camp is roughly a month away and expect to see Gagner catch on with a team before camp. The teams likely interested at this point include:

Toronto Maple Leafs

The Maple Leafs have some holes in their fourth line and general manager Kyle Dubas is trying to create some internal competition for training camp. Adding a veteran like Gagner who can play all over the ice would be beneficial. He's very close friends with several members of the team and it would be a seamless transition for the veteran forward. Last season with the Detroit Red Wings, Gagner scored 13 goals and recorded 31 points in 81 games. Getting this type of production from a league minimum contract is something the Maple Leafs could use more of.

Sam Gagner had 31 points for the Red Wings last season (26 primary points).

None of those 26 came on the power play. He led Detroit in SH TOI, and he operates the GTHL's Toronto Marlboros with Tavares.

If Spezza isn't back, don't be surprised if Gagner takes that role. https://t.co/GYDrZ9qZls

— Kevin Papetti (@KPapetti) May 22, 2022

New Jersey Devils

The Devils are another team with some holes as they try to balance out their lineup and transition to a contending hockey team. New Jersey is light for depth at right wing and could use Gagner in a lesser role with a chance to move up and play in the top six should someone get hurt. The Devils have been in on a number of wingers this summer and could look to Gagner on a one-year league minimum deal. They have a ton of cap space so money won't be an issue.

Of these two teams, the Maple Leafs continue to make a ton of sense and are likely going to sign Gagner to a professional try out for training camp.

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