Leafs Resign Belfour, Nieuwendyk, Roberts and Berg
The Maple Leafs made a significant move today assuring fans they intend on being competitive next season, whenever that may occur. On the eve of unrestricted free agency among eligible NHL players, the Maple Leafs agreed to terms with three of their more integral pieces to any kind of success they may have in the near future. Goaltender Ed Belfour, centre Joe Nieuwendyk, and winger Gary Roberts have all resigned with the Maple Leafs instead of trying out unrestricted free agency. The Leafs also resigned defenseman Aki Berg, who is generally a reliable player on the blueline.
It was clear that without signing Ed Belfour, any other free agent signing would have little impact on the amount of success the team would see next season. Without Belfour under contract, and Mikael Tellqvist set to become a restricted free agent, the Maple Leafs did not have an established netminder in their organization. The Maple Leafs realised that and have signed the cornerstone of the team to a new contract.
Joe Nieuwendyk and Gary Roberts made strong contributions to the team last year. Nieuwendyk battled injury later in the season but still managed to score twenty two goals. In the playoffs, Nieuwendyk led the team in scoring with six goals despite missing four of the fourteen playoff games the Maple Leafs participated in. Gary Roberts also had a strong regular season scoring twenty eight goals. Not only does Roberts bring his talent but he also brings an unwavering will to win that undoubtedly rubs off on his teammates.
The terms of each of the deals remain undisclosed.
