The Toronto Maple Leafs have made a strategic move to address their need for center depth by signing Steven Lorentz to a professional tryout (PTO), a decision that could fill the gap left by David Kampf. As reported by Sportsnet, the former Florida Panthers forward is being considered as a potential solution to the Maple Leafs’ salary cap issues and fourth-line center role.
At first glance, the signing of Lorentz may raise questions given his status as a depth player, but the move is a calculated one. With the Leafs already pressed against the salary cap, finding affordable options to round out the roster is essential. Kampf, who plays a solid defensive role but offers little offensively, is set to earn $2.4 million per season—an amount the Leafs may not be able to justify for a fourth-line center. Lorentz, on the other hand, offers a potentially cheaper alternative.
Lorentz’s performance with the Panthers last season was modest; he tallied just three points in 38 regular-season games and matched that total in 16 playoff appearances. However, his defensive reliability and ability to play a depth role make him a viable candidate to take over Kampf’s spot at a much lower cost. If Lorentz makes the team, he could be signed to a league-minimum deal, offering the Maple Leafs financial flexibility.
Despite Kampf’s contributions as a defensive forward, the hefty price tag attached to his four-year deal makes him an expensive option for the role he plays. Lorentz could provide similar defensive value, and although Kampf scored eight goals and 19 points in 78 games last season, Lorentz has the potential to match that offensive production while being a more cost-effective option.
The Leafs could even opt to keep both players, with Kampf serving as the third-line center and Lorentz slotting in on the fourth line. Given Toronto’s ongoing struggles with depth scoring in the playoffs, this scenario could allow the team to focus on fortifying their offensive depth. The Leafs’ center lineup, beyond Auston Matthews and John Tavares, remains uncertain, and Max Domi has yet to solidify his place as a reliable third-line center.
Prospects like Easton Cowan and Fraser Minten are promising but may not be ready for full-time NHL duties just yet. In this context, Lorentz provides insurance in case of injuries or other roster challenges.
While Lorentz may not be the flashiest signing, his addition could prove valuable for a Leafs team that values depth and flexibility, particularly as they look to address their cap concerns and build a competitive lineup for the upcoming season.
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