Before joining the Arizona Coyotes as a free agent this summer, defenseman Matt Dumba considered offers from multiple teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Matt Dumba Reveals Why He Turned Down The Leafs In The Summer
During a recent interview, Matt Dumba spoke about his situation as a free agent and explained why he ultimately chose Arizona over Toronto.
«When the floodgates opened, there was a lot going on I just wanted to be patient,» Dumba said. «I knew I had a house in Arizona so I was waiting on that,» Dumba said, per Sportsnet's Luke Fox.
Now, despite the Maple Leafs acquiring Ilya Lyubushkin from the Anaheim Ducks, they're still in the market for a right-handed defenseman. Dumba's name continues to surface in trade rumors, although he previously turned down Toronto's offer in free agency.
With the Coyotes likely to sell assets before the March 8 deadline, Dumba could be a valuable trade piece for them. Toronto fans recently had a chance to see him in action when the Coyotes visited, where he showcased his physical play and shot-blocking abilities.
While Dumba expects to explore free agency again this summer, he's uncertain about his immediate future.
«I'm sure I'll be going through that again this summer.»
Perhaps a move to the Maple Leafs could be on the cards if the trade deadline brings them together.