Clearly, this is a talented player who could use a fresh start, and it is for that reason that the Leafs would be wise to keep an eye on the Mississauga native.
Philip Tomasino is off to a great start in five games with the Penguins: • 3 goals, 1 assist (primary) • 4 points • 3 goals in last 4 games (4-game pt streak) • 15 shots in his last 4 games (most among fwds) I’d say he just needed a change of scenery.
Tomasino is also a right wing forward, an area where the Leafs desperately need extra help up front to add more versatility. The team has just three such forwards: William Nylander, Calle Jarnkrok and Nicolas Roy, the latter of whom was expected to miss a few games due to an upper-body injury. Having the ability to play someone comfortably on the right side is just as important as on the backend, and having at least one on each line can do wonders for roster balance.
He is known for his high motor skills, strong skating and willingness to apply pressure on the forefoot, making him a threat on offense. Tomasino has playmaking skills and is well aware of finding his teammates, but he can certainly burn goalkeepers with his wicked shot if given the time and space. Although not known for his defensive skills, his active stick could make him useful along the walls and up high to disrupt play and start the counter-attack.
All stats are 5v5, via Natural Stat Trick
The best part of the hypothetical waiver claim is that the Leafs would retain his rights at the end of the season, as Tomasino would be an RFA when his current contract expires and he won’t reach UFA status until 2029. They could reassess where he is and if they like what they see, then a simple qualifying offer will suffice. Otherwise, they let him become a free agent without any worries because they didn’t have to give up an asset to get him.
Combine all that with the fact that the Leafs are beset by injuries and that they are high in the waiver wire rankings due to their slow start, and it makes a lot of sense for them to take a chance on Tomasino. For this to work, the idea would more than likely be to put one of Sammy Blais or Philippe Myers on waivers, as both would be on the outside looking in if the lineup is fully healthy anyway. Considering how desperate the Leafs would be to get some kind of spark, there will certainly be plenty of opportunities for him upon his arrival.
While there is no risk involved due to Tomasino’s inconsistencies, the upside and ability to retain his rights make the gamble worthwhile. Therefore, it would be a good decision for the Leafs to claim him off waivers before the window closes Friday at 2 p.m.
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