In the end, the Toronto Maple Leafs had to think dollar and cents. Yesterday, the team failed to qualify Czech forward Ondrej Kase. In essence, he’s been let go to become a UFA (unrestricted free agent). He can now sign with any NHL team.
It Isn’t That the Maple Leafs Didn’t Like Kase, They Did
That said, it’s pretty clear that the Maple Leafs like Kase and his ability and heart. They also appreciate that Kase and his teammate David Kampf were childhood friends back in the Czech Republic and that Kase came to play in Toronto because he needed/wanted to be near someone he felt comfortable with after the difficult season he had with the Boston Bruins. Kampf was that person.
Kase’s talent was evident; as well, but his style of play put him at constant risk of injury. He had several concussions, including the sixth of his career in 2021-22. When he was on the ice, Kase could score, could play up and down the lineup, could contribute to both special teams, and was a fast and exciting player. He added value to the team.
Kase’s Issue Was His Injuries
But Kase just couldn’t stay in the lineup. In the end, the forward who was once referred to as head coach Sheldon Keefe’s Swiss Army Knife because of his versatility was too risky a sign for the team – especially at the money he was likely to receive had he gone to arbitration. There was that possibility, which Kase likely would have taken advantage of.
His season with the Maple Leafs resulted in his scoring 14 goals and adding 13 assists (for 27 points) in 50 games. Had he been healthy all season, he’d likely have scored 20 goals. That’s why the team likes him, but the team might not have been able to afford him – especially at a contract that would have stretched the upper limits of their salary cap.
What Happens Now with Kase?
What happens now to Kase is up in the air. It was, in my opinion, the uncertainty of his salary as much as the uncertainty of his injury status that forced the Maple Leafs to walk away from a qualifying offer. Sadly, it is the same thing the Bruins did last year.
Does that mean that Kase and the Maple Leafs are done working together? Perhaps, but also perhaps not. There’s a chance that Kase might return to the team if he’ll sign at a much lower price than the $1.25 million he earned in 2021-22.
Kase was nominated for the Bill Masterton Trophy as an NHL player who showed perseverance in his play.
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