Brandon Saad, a 32-year-old left winger, will officially clear waivers this afternoon, ending his contract with the St. Louis Blues. Teams are eyeing him, notably the Toronto Maple Leafs, whose GM, Brad Treliving, is actively pursuing Saad. Saad excelled under current Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube during his time in St. Louis, particularly in a strong 2021-22 season where he scored 24 goals and totaled 49 points. His effective all-around play makes him a valuable asset as he seeks a new team.
"He just builds our game with his direct play and skating... He's on top of things, he does a lot of good things that way, he's an all-situational guy for us, too, and he really drives that north kind of hockey, forechecking, skating, that type of play." - Craig Berube in 2022 on Brandon Saad's game/style of play
Toronto GM Brad Treliving is reportedly 'pushing hard' for Saad's services, along with a handful of other teams that include Edmonton.
Saad had a successful first season under Berube in 2021-22, scoring 24 goals, totaling 49 points, and effectively contributing to both even-strength and special teams.
Saad's best season under Berube was a 24-goal campaign in the first season (2021-22) after signing his now-terminated five-year, $4.5 million AAV contract with St. Louis.
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