Leafs Acquire Hutchinson from Panthers

The Toronto Maple Leafs acquired goaltender Michael Hutchinson from the Florida Panthers in exchange for a 2020 fifth-round draft pick. Hutchinson will report to the Toronto Marlies (AHL).

The Maple Leafs have been in need of some goaltending depth after losing Curtis McElhinney and Calvin Pickard on waivers prior to the start of the season. Garret Sparks has been inconsistent as the Leafs’ backup this season, posting a .910 SV% and a 2.88 GAA in nine appearances. Head coach Mike Babcock has expressed an interest in resting Frederik Andersen more in the second half of the season, so Hutchinson could see some time with the Leafs if Sparks continues to struggle.

Originally a third-round pick of the Boston Bruins in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, Hutchinson spent parts of five seasons with the Winnipeg Jets before signing a one-year contract with the Panthers in July. He has a .907 SV% and a 44-40-13 record in 106 career games. Hutchinson struggled when called upon earlier this season following injuries to Roberto Luongo and James Reimer, registering an .839 SV% and 4.17 GAA in four appearances. He’s played in eight games this season for the Springfield Thunderbirds, Florida’s AHL affiliate, posting a 2-3-1 record and a .906 SV%.