Toronto Maple Leafs Acquire Defenceman Jake Muzzin from Kings

Defenseman Jake Muzzin during his time with Los Angeles Kings. Photo by Daniel Lea/CSM/REX/Shutterstock (9930661ai)

The Toronto Maple Leafs ended their search for a quality defenceman on Tuesday by acquiring Jake Muzzin from the Los Angeles Kings in a massive trade agreement that involves a first round-pick, forward prospect Carl Grundstrom and defence prospect Sean Durzi.

Muzzin, 29, will be a great addition to the Maple Leaf’s leaky defence line. Muzzin is left-handed but he’s still good on the right side, the most affected D-line area. The 29-year-old will also ease goalie Frederik Andersen’s job, particularly this season when he’s had to play really hard to stop opponents’ offense sides.

Muzzin is also a great deal contractual wise, with an annual contract worth $4 million that is expected to end 2020. He may not be the most defenseman there is, but he’s a great upgrade to what the Maple Leafs have this season. With 21 points, the 29-year-old ranks 10th in the Leafs’ scoring list and third among all defenders.

The Maple Leafs will, however, part ways with some of their youngsters. Grunstrom, 21, has already tallied 13 goals and 29 points in the 42 games he played for the team’s AHL affiliate this season. Durzi, was a second-round pick last year.

Harley loves music and tries to go to a music festival every summer. When he's not listening to music, he writes about movies, food and wine, art, and sport.