Oilers' forward Zach Hyman says he never wanted to leave Toronto

It was tough for both the player and the team when Zach Hyman left the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Born and raised in the city, Hyman played the first six years of his career with the Leafs. Eventually, the Leafs became unwilling to pay him the modest amount of salary he deserved, which led to a disappointing end to his time in Toronto. Ahead of the game against the Leafs tonight, Hyman reflected with some apparent sadness on his departure from the Leafs.


Hyman said he was only ever focused on returning to his hometown team, and felt an irresistible connection to his hometown team - but the GM Kyle Dubas at the time believed Hyman to be a replaceable player.


That's why Hyman's return to Toronto this season is much more emotional than last year. Now in three seasons with the Oilers, Hyman has been the perfect fit for this team and has elevated his game to heights no one expected from him, but we should've considering his work ethic and constant drive to improve. With 48 goals this season, he has the opportunity to reach a lauded 50 goal milestone against his former team. Hyman has absolutely proved that he wasn't a replaceable player, and he's easily worth his $5.5M salary.