Decision has been made on defense corps in Toronto

It’s been made quite clear in Toronto that changes are coming to the roster of the Maple Leafs this summer. General manager Brad Treliving will have tough decisions to make, especially after telling media members that “everything was on the table.”

One player that has reportedly been pushed off it is defenseman T.J. Brodie as The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta reports that the Maple Leafs are more than likely going to let him walk as a free agent this summer.

When revealing that the Leafs are expected to bring forward Tyler Bertuzzi back, Pagnotta added that Toronto is willing to move on from Brodie as the club looks to fill its blue line with more offensive minded talent.

“As Leafs assess HC options, roster decisions could begin soon after a coach is hired. I’m told they’ve expressed interest in bringing back Tyler Bertuzzi. However, one player not likely back is TJ Brodie, who’s expected to test the UFA market.”

The way the 2023-24 season unfolded for Brodie has probably prepared him for the divorce. He went from a key top-four blueliner at $5 million to a healthy scratch, even in the postseason when he played just one game.

There is still a lot to be seen on significant changes that are set to come to the Toronto’s blue line, including with Mark Giordano, John Klingberg and Morgan Rielly.

I don’t bet on much, but I’d be willing to bet on Brodie testing the free agent market, this summer, probably taking a pay cut and playing elsewhere next season.

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