Toronto Maple Leafs sign defenceman eight years after drafting him

Moments ago, the Toronto Maple Leafs announced a strange signing. Eight years after drafting him, the Leafs have signed defenceman Nicolas Mattinen to a one year contract.

The Leafs originally drafted Mattinen in the sixth round of the 2016 NHL draft. After being drafted, Mattinen remained in the OHL for four more years, and the Leafs did not tender him a contract. Since then, Mattinen has played for the University of Ottawa, the AHL's Laval Rocket, and a pro season in both Austria and Germany. After recording 16 goals and 46 points in the DEL this season, the Leafs have decided to give the 6'5 defenceman another shot.




The signing of another monstrously tall defenceman lines up with new GM Brad Treliving's priorities when it comes to the back end. In addition to Mattinen, the Leafs also recently signed 6'7 College Free Agent Cade Webber, and have added Joel Edmundson to the NHL roster.

It's quite a journey for Mattinen to secure a potential NHL deal, one he should be commended for. It takes incredible dedication to the game to continue to persevere and develop your game in multiple minor leagues and overseas pro leagues. Eight years after being drafted, it's crazy to see the Leafs circle back to signing a 26 rookie defenceman into the system.