The Maple Leafs might find their missing spark across the Atlantic.
Two former prospects who left North America are turning heads in European leagues, just as Toronto desperately needs fresh energy in its lineup.
Topi Niemela and Roni Hirvonen, both 23, are showing they might deserve another shot with the struggling Leafs.
The team still holds their rights, and both players signed one-year deals overseas – Niemela in Sweden, Hirvonen in Finland. It’s perfect timing for a Leafs team looking to get younger and faster.
Niemela’s been impressive with the Malmo Redhawks in Sweden’s top league. While he’s not putting up the flashy offensive numbers that first caught Toronto’s eye, he’s developed into something perhaps more valuable: a reliable defenseman who rarely makes mistakes.
The bigger European ice has been a game-changer for him. His smaller size isn’t an issue anymore, and he’s thriving as a smart, mobile defender who can move the puck efficiently.
In Finland, Hirvonen’s having a breakout season with Karpat. He’s already racked up 21 points in 22 games – matching what he did in a full season with the Toronto Marlies.
Sure, Finland’s league isn’t quite NHL-caliber, but Hirvonen’s showing skills that never got a proper chance to shine in North America. He’s a pest on the ice – in a good way – combining non-stop energy with solid two-way play. His 5-foot-10 frame might seem small for the Leafs’ current style, but his intensity could be exactly what their bottom six needs.
There’s another angle here too. Even if Toronto doesn’t bring them back, both players could be valuable trade pieces. But here’s the catch: they’ll only return to North America for an NHL spot, not another stint in the minors.
For a Leafs team that’s hit rock bottom, it’s a low-risk option worth considering. With one-year contracts and their rights secured, Toronto’s got nothing to lose by giving these guys another look.
