The Toronto Maple Leafs have had “productive conversations” with pending restricted freelance agents Evan Rodrigues, according to TSN Hockey insider Pierre LeBrun.
LeBrun notes that it is currently unclear whether the talks will lead to a new deal. The Leafs are looking to sign Rodrigues for less than the $ 2 million qualifying offer the team would have to make by October 7th to protect his rights.
Rodrigues was taken over by the Maple Leafs of the Pittsburgh Penguins last month as part of their return to the winger Kasperi Kapanen.
The 27-year-old started with the Buffalo Sabers last season and scored five goals and nine points in 38 games before joining the Penguins. He added one goal in seven games with Pittsburgh.
Rodrigues has 27 goals and 72 points in 199 games.
