Maple Leafs Notes: Raycroft Waived Again, Avery To T.O., Stajan Qualified,

Raycroft Placed On Unconditional Waivers

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced today that they have placed goaltender Andrew Raycroft on unconditional waivers, and it is likely his contract will be bought out sometime before the June 30th deadline.

After posting a franchise tying 37 wins two year ago, Raycroft was only able to play his way to two wins, in nineteen games. 

Avery To Toronto?

The Toronto Sun is reporting that pending free agent super pest Sean Avery has softened his stance on playing in Canada, and may even be interested in playing in his hometown GTA.

Avery is the pest of all pests, but is also a highly effective player, who can fight, score goals, and throw opponents off their games like no other.

GM Cliff Fletcher has stated many times he wants the Leafs to be tougher and play with more of an edge this season.

However, it will not be a cheap move for the Maple Leafs should they go after Avery.

Sources are saying the Pickering, Ontario native may be asking for upwards of $4 million dollars a season.

Stajan Qualified, Captain In Waiting?

Just to clear things up, the Toronto Maple Leafs have extended a qualifying offer to restricted free agent forward Matt Stajan.

However, the qualifying offer was only the beginning. 

The Maple Leafs extended the offer in order to retain his rights, but it is still likely the two sides will work on a deal and are likely headed to arbitration.

Also Damien Cox has an article right now on the Toronto Star website saying young Matt Stajan could be a perfect fit for the next Maple Leafs captain.

Despite being a second or third line centre, Stajan has showed he has a smart defensive game, and tremendous leadership abilities.

Stajan was named the Maple Leafs NHLPA player rep during the lockout, and is the annual organizer of Toronto's Hockey Fights Cancer night.

It's A Long Weekend

Finally, another long weekend is here for us to enjoy, and I hope you all enjoy it to the fullest.

As many of you readers know, I have a steady girlfriend (virtually a wife) and a three year old son who I will be enjoying the weekend with.

I will of course jump in during times this weekend should something big happen with the Maple Leafs, otherwise I will return this Tuesday to cover the free agent frenzy.

Enjoy the weekend.