Lucic Spoke to Maple Leafs and Blackhawks Before Signing w/ Bruins

In a recent episode of the ‘Spittin Chiclets’ podcast, Milan Lucic shared insights into the process that was his signing with the Boston Bruins this summer. He noted there was potential with other teams who showed interest in his services, but he wound up going back to Boston where he was familiar and had previously won a Stanley Cup.

Among the teams who reached out to Lucic were the Toronto Maple Leafs and Chicago Blackhawks.

The Maple Leafs’ General Manager, Brad Treliving, expressed interest in signing Lucic due to their shared time in Calgary. Jimmy Murphy of Boston Hockey Now writes, “Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving acquired the 6-foot-3, 240-pound rugged winger once when he was GM of the Calgary Flames. According to Lucic, he tried for a second time when Lucic was granted permission to speak to other teams by current Flames general manager Craig Conroy leading into NHL free agency.” Despite the opportunity, Lucic revealed hesitance about wearing a Leafs jersey due to his strong emotional ties to Boston, saying, “I talked to ‘Tre’ a little bit…it would be tough for me to be a Leafer just because of the Boston connection.”

The Maple Leafs ended up signing Ryan Reaves to a three-year contract.

Lucic also disclosed his conversations with the Chicago Blackhawks. This was before the team acquired winger Nick Foligno as protection for the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, Connor Bedard. Murphy notes, “The 35-year-old Lucic, who spent the last four seasons with the Flames, admitted that there was mutual interest there.”

Lucic Wanted an Original Six Team

Notably, he expressed a desire to play for an Original 6 team again. As such, he mentioned the Detroit Red Wings and New York Rangers as teams on his preferred list.

These revelations provide insight into the complex decisions professional athletes face when considering their team affiliations, influenced by personal connections, past experiences, and a desire to be part of storied franchises. Lucic’s considerations highlight the emotional undercurrents that can play a significant role in the course of a player’s career, shaping their choices beyond mere team dynamics.

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