Former Toronto Maple Leafs center Mikhail Grabovski may be close to selecting a new team for the upcoming season.
Grabovski was not a happy camper after learning that he had been bought out by the Leafs on July 4, making him an unrestricted free agent. Much of his disdain for the situation was directed toward coach Randy Carlyle.
“I play in the [expletive] Russian KHL, I make lots of [expletive] points and what’s going to happen? He make me [expletive] play on the fourth line and he put me in the playoffs on the fourth line and third line again,” Grabovski said.
Grabovski struggled this past season, scoring just nine goals and seven assists in 48 games. Last season, Grabovski posted 23 goals and 28 assists for 58 points with the Leafs.
“Yeah, I don’t score goals. I need to work more about that. I know that. But if you feel support from your coach [you’ll find success]. I don’t feel any support from this [expletive] idiot.”
Several teams for rumored to be interested in Grabovski when he became a free agent, but he has thus far stayed silent on his future. Now, TSN is reporting that he has narrowed down the field to three possible teams. While not speculating on any possible teams interested in his services, TSN did state that Winnipeg is not among the three.
Another internet source has suggested that Washington could be Grabovski’s first choice. This could be a strong move for Washington, who will look to address some of the offense lost with the departure of Mike Ribiero, who signed with Phoenix as a free agent earlier this month. Ottawa, Edmonton and Anaheim are also reportedly in the mix, although Grabovski has likely eliminated one of those choices if he has indeed narrowed his selection down to three.
The Senators certainly have the cap space to acquire Grabovski, with a little over $11 million available, but their situation at center may not be appealing for him. Jason Spezza basically has the top line position locked up, and Kyle Turris has been effective as the second line center, which essentially puts Grabovski in the same position he was in with Toronto.
If Anaheim is indeed in the running, Grabovski could be an interesting pick up to help alleviate the loss of Bobby Ryan. Although, the Ducks have quite the log jam at center, which may prevent a deal from happening.