Leafs Connolly Likely on the Move

Leaf fans have been at odds with forward Tim Connolly from day one.  Once the terms of his highly over priced two-year contract came to light the feeling was at a 4.75 million cap hit Connolly wasn’t worth the investment .  Connolly has struggled this season, being left off the opening day rosterand in turn was sent down to the AHL’s Toronto Marlies, where he has played since the time of the demotion.

Connolly has tried to make the best of the tough situation, in twelve games with the Marlies he has five goals, two assists, and twelve penalty minutes.  There is little doubt he could be useful again to an NHL club it appears unlikely it will be the Leafs.

Maple Leafs general manager Dave Nonis told Sportsnet 590 The Fan that a numerous teams have called to inquire about the 31-year-old centre.

“Is there a chance (Connolly) will be back (in the NHL)? No question” Nonis said. “We’ve had teams call on him. I would expect at some point whether it’s with us or someone else that he’ll be back in the NHL before the season’s over.”

Connolly will more than likely be traded by the NHL trade deadline.

Nonis also appeared on TSN Radio 1050 radio this week and discussed if the Leafs were still in the market for an experienced goalie:

“Yes, if we could. Both of our goalies are aware of it, not that we don’t think that we don’t have NHL caliber goaltenders, or goalies with the ability to become very good starting goaltenders.

“If we could add someone to help them along, a veteran that would help them grow, we would do it. At this point, there hasn’t been a veteran available, at least not at a price that makes any sense for us.

“To the credit of both our goaltenders, they’ve stepped up and played very, very well. It hasn’t changed. We’d like to give them some help along the way. If that’s not available at a reasonable price, we’re content to go with the two that we have.”

With how well the Leafs have played so far this season Nonis has been afforded the luxury of patience and not been pressured into making any brash decisions.  It is becoming more obvious though that Nonis’ is ready to start making significant moves to help improve his roster.

The Maple Leafs travel to Ottawa for a date with the Senators Saturday.