Could Maple Leafs’ Sign Evan Rodrigues & Miles Wood as UFAs?

Rodrigues brings a competitive edge and work ethic to the ice. In that, he’s similar to Alexander Kerfoot. However, he has the potential to bring an extra level of consistency to his offensive output.

As far as scoring goes, during the 2021-22 season with the Penguins, Rodrigues played 82 games. He scored 19 goals and added 24 assists (for a total of 43 points). He also contributed three power-play goals and seven game-winners. During the 2022-23 season, he played for the Colorado Avalanche. In 69 games, he scored 16 goals and added 23 assists (for 39 points).

He’d bring secondary scoring to the Maple Leafs if he were signed.

The Case for Miles Wood as a UFA Signing

The attraction of Miles Wood as a UFA target is that he’d bring speed, a strong work ethic, and physicality to the team. Wood is known for his speed and relentless forechecking. In those two areas, he brings a unique set of skills to the table.

While Wood has had his fair share of injuries, when he’s healthy he’s an impactful player. Despite not having played a full 82-game season in recent years, Wood still managed to contribute 25 to 27 points annually to the New Jersey Devils. (It’s the only NHL team he’s played for.)

Wood has the ability to score goals and be a factor in the forecheck. He would add a much-needed competitive edge to the Maple Leafs’ lineup. During the playoffs, the Maple Leafs seemed to lack a player who would consistently display a level of tenacity. That in itself would make Wood an enticing option to address that void.

Last season with New Jersey, Wood scored 13 goals and added 14 assists (for 27 points) in 76 games.

Both Rodrigues and Wood Would Be Strong on the Left-Wing

The Maple Leafs need to bolster their left-wing depth. Both Rodrigues and Wood possess the qualities needed to fill this role effectively. But they are different players.

Rodrigues would generate secondary scoring and provide consistency. Wood would bring speed, a work ethic, and physicality to the team. In different ways, both would enhance the team’s offensive capabilities. Both players would contribute to the scoresheet and also inject energy and competitiveness into the lineup.

The Bottom Line

As the Maple Leafs prepare to fill out its roster with effective free agents, two areas the team must fill are secondary scoring and adding a competitive edge on the left wing. As Baracchini notes, both Rodrigues and Wood emerge as ideal candidates who can fulfill these requirements.

If the team could add one or two of these players to its roster, it could enhance its offensive depth and inject much-needed energy. Those were two things lacking during the team’s too-short playoff run.