Fox: Maple Leafs’ Handling of Ekman-Larsson at Deadline Questioned

This article discusses the Maple Leafs’ handling of Oliver Ekman-Larsson at the trade deadline, highlighting the following points:

  • Ekman-Larsson and his family were excited to join the Maple Leafs and felt welcomed in Toronto.
  • He has been a consistent and reliable defenseman for the team this season.
  • Despite his commitment and desire to stay, the Leafs benched him on deadline day to explore trade options.
  • Ekman-Larsson was blindsided by the decision and made it clear he wanted to stay in Toronto.
  • Ultimately, no trade materialized, and Ekman-Larsson expressed relief but also hinted at potential issues to resolve with the organization.
  • The article also touches on the intangible loss of Scott Laughton, Corey Perry’s impact on the Lightning, and other quick notes on the Leafs and NHL.

Read the full story here: https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/fox-maple-leafs-should-have-treated-ekman-larsson-better-on-deadline-day/