As the Toronto Maple Leafs look to fill out their roster for the upcoming 2023-24 season, one area that needs a boost is defense. If the team is going to be looking for a defenseman, Carson Suci (who last played for the Seattle Kraken) would be a good pick for the Toronto Maple Leafs for several reasons.
In the next video it is an episode of The Hockey Writers Maple Leafs Lounge. Maple Leafs Book Lounge, Maple Leafs writers Peter Barracini and Jim Parsons discuss some of the free agent’s goals on defense. In the video below, Jim highlights what Carson Suse might bring to the team. I will share some of these ideas here.
Susi is reliable and stable
First, Susi proved to be a reliable and stable defenseman during his time with the Seattle Kraken. He demonstrated strong defensive skills and the ability to contribute offensively when given the opportunity. Having him on the Maple Leafs’ blue line would provide the team with more depth and stability. These two attributes are important to a team aiming to make a deep playoff run.
Susi’s necklace might make him an attractive target
Second, there’s a good chance Soucy’s potential contract is within the team’s ability to pay. This, in and of itself, would make him an attractive target. The truth is, he is likely to sign a contract of $2.5-3 million per year for three years. If so, he could offer an excellent value given the Maple Leafs’ salary cap restrictions.
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Susi’s age and experience make him a valuable fit
Third, Susi’s age and experience will be evaluated on the Maple Leafs roster. This would make him an interesting choice. Mark Giordano was a huge addition to the Maple Leafs’ defense last season. However, I have to think the team will get him involved in some necessary load management this season. Last season he was great, but he seemed to run out of steam during the playoffs. Giordano is in the twilight of his career at the age of 39.
Susi can help transition the team’s younger defensemen
Fourth, if Susi is signed, his arrival will add defensive stability but also help the younger defensive core team transition to the next generation of Deckers. Soucy could enter the top four alongside well-known players like Morgan Rielly, TJ Brodie, and Jake McCabe.
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Susi did well during the post-season, and that’s okay
Fifth, Susi played well during the playoffs. This showed that he was able to raise his game for the postseason. It does not wilt in high pressure games. This type of player is always an asset to a team that wants to go on a long post-season run. He is an experienced and compact player.
bottom line
Susi’s defensive abilities, potential contract value, fit in the crew, and playoff success make him an attractive target for the Maple Leafs. If the team can add him, it will bolster their defense and contribute to their success during the postseason.
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