NHL News: Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs could target overlooked former Sharks forward to bolster bottom-six unit

Auston Matthews‘ Toronto Maple Leafs may have a chance to boost their depth without spending heavily this offseason. According to The Leafs Nation, the team is eyeing former San Jose Sharks forward Kevin Labanc as a potential PTO (professional tryout) candidate.

While the Maple Leafs already signed Max Pacioretty and Steve Lorentz to PTOs last year—both of whom eventually earned deals—this summer may offer a similar opportunity with Labanc. Once a dependable offensive weapon in San Jose, Labanc’s recent struggles could make him a low-risk, high-upside option for Toronto.

“One worth considering is Kevin Labanc who had a rough last year in San Jose and an equally tough season last year in Columbus,” wrote Jon Steitzer of The Leafs Nation. “A PTO would help gauge if that’s true or if he can be every bit as productive in a bottom-six role as he was during his better years in San Jose.”

Could Labanc still add value to Toronto’s bottom six?

Despite recent downturns, Labanc remains a two-way forward with playmaking upside. If the Leafs invite him to camp, he could not only serve as depth but also influence lineup flexibility. For example, should Labanc fill a fourth-line role, it might allow Max Domi to join Auston Matthews on a scoring line or give Nick Robertson a larger offensive role.

Kevin Labanc #62 with the San Jose Sharks skates against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on December 03, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Even if Labanc doesn’t crack the NHL roster, his experience could benefit the Marlies or serve as insurance for in-season injuries. His 512-game career includes 237 points (84 goals, 153 assists), highlighted by a 56-point campaign in 2018–19—proof he can contribute when placed in the right role.

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Will Toronto offer Labanc a PTO?

With over 500 NHL games under his belt and proven utility on the power play and in defensive systems, Labanc could be a fit in Craig Berube’s scheme. And with Toronto needing reliable depth and special teams bodies for camp, signing Labanc to a PTO seems like a no-brainer. Now it’s just a matter of whether the 28-year-old signs on the dotted line.