Leafs GM Brad Treliving provides an update on the Jani Hakanpaa situation

The spotlight was on the Leafs as they named Auston Matthews the 26th captain in team history. During the press conference, Matthews and John Tavares spoke about the significance of the day. However, when asked about Hakanpää, Treliving had to address another important matter.

In early July, the 32-year-old defenseman signed a two-year deal with the Leafs worth $1.5 million annually. Unfortunately, it was later revealed that Hakanpää has a knee injury that could potentially end his NHL career.

Fans have been curious about his status, especially after he was seen wearing a Dallas Stars jersey at a charity golf tournament, even after signing with Toronto.

When asked about it, Treliving didn't provide much detail. He said he wouldn't discuss the matter since it wasn't the focus of the day, but he did mention that the team is "working through" the situation.

Hakanpää was expected to add depth to the Leafs' defense, but his uncertain future has left fans questioning whether the excitement surrounding the 6'7" defenseman was justified.

Last season, Hakanpää played a key role for the Dallas Stars, recording 12 points in 64 regular-season games before getting injured. He missed the playoffs and was likely eager to return to the ice with the Leafs in September. If he manages to recover during the season, he could potentially return in time for the playoffs, similar to how Tampa Bay's Nikita Kucherov and Vegas' Mark Stone have in the past.

Source: David Alter on X
Brad Treliving on the Jani Hakanpaa situation

Source for Jani Hakanpaa's statistics: NHL.com
Jani Hakanpaa