Mark Giordano makes announcement on his hockey future
The 40-year-old defenseman Mark Giordano is one of the considerations Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving will have to make regarding the team's blueline.
Giordano, who was acquired by the Toronto Maple Leafs from the Seattle Kraken in 2022, is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agency on Monday, July 1st, and he is said to have made a significant choice regarding his future.
Giordano isn't ready to hang up his skates just yet; according to Rich Winter, his agent, the 1,148-game veteran plans to play in the 2024–25 season, whether it's with the Toronto Maple Leafs or another team.
"Mark has made the decision that he's playing for a few more years," said Winter. "He feels very confident. He's been talking to a lot of people who tell him: Don't quit until they make you. He clearly wants to play."
Toronto native Giordano had a difficult season on and off the court. During the regular season, he sustained three different injuries. In February, he took a brief leave of absence from the Maple Leafs following the death of his father.
Giordano recorded 49 penalty minutes, nine points (three goals, six assists), and a plus-ten rating in 46 games. Throughout Toronto's first-round series against the Boston Bruins, which ended in a seven-game loss, Giordano was confined to the press box.
Giordano will be a name to keep an eye on when the free agent window opens on Canada Day at Noon ET to see if he can secure a contract or if he will have to make do with a PTO.
Previously on HockeyUnplugged
POLL |
JUIN 21 | 98 ANSWERS Mark Giordano makes announcement on his hockey future Will the Maple Leafs bring Mark Giordano back next season? |
Yes | 37 | 37.8 % |
No | 61 | 62.2 % |
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