“I’ve always liked coming in there”: Oliver Ekman-Larsson opens up about his decision to sign with Maple Leafs

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson opened up about his decision to ink a free-agent deal with Toronto. In an interview with PHNX Sports’ Craig Morgan on Thursday, Oliver Ekman-Larsson discussed the process behind ultimately choosing Toronto as his new home for the next four years.

In particular, Ekman-Larsson stated:

“I’ve always liked coming in there as an away team, playing in that building.”

The comments underscored Oliver Ekman-Larsson’s desire to call the Scotiabank Arena his home base. So, when the Toronto Maple Leafs came calling, Ekman-Larsson was ready to make the switch.

He said:

“It’s always special. Obviously, there’s a lot of history in the organization and I feel like they have a really good team that has a chance to do something special as well. I think it’s a good fit.”

Ekman-Larsson is coming off something very special of his own. He was a key member of the Florida Panthers club that went all the way last season. After coming up short in 2022-23, the Cats got over the hump to win the franchise’s first Cup.

But there was another powerful reason to join Toronto for Ekman-Larsson; GM Brad Treliving. Here’s what Ekman-Larsson said about the Maple Leafs top front-office exec:

“I don’t want to sound like I’m sucking up to him but Brad is one unbelievable person.” Ekman-Larsson added, “I don’t think Toronto knows how lucky they are to have a guy like that who cares a lot about his surroundings and organization and players.”

The comments highlight just how much Treliving’s personal touch means to players interested in going to Toronto. Now, the challenge becomes pulling off another miracle to bring back the Cup to Toronto.

Oliver Ekman-Larsson and the Arizona connection

Ekman-Larsson spent a portion of his career with the Arizona Coyotes. There, he gained a reputation for being a top defenseman. But it also meant forging close relationships with former teammates who are now part of the Toronto Maple Leafs organization.

One particular connection is Coyotes legend Shane Doan. Doan joined the Maple Leafs’ front office staff as a special consultant last season. Here’s what Ekman-Larsson had to say about Doan, per PHNX Sports:

“And then the other guy, he’s OK, too. He meant so much to me with what he did for me when I was a kid in Arizona. Playing with a guy like that – I wish everybody had the chance to be around a guy like Doaner.”

Also, Oliver Ekman-Larsson spent some time with Max Domi in the desert. The two played on the Coyotes for a few seasons.

Then, there’s another significant connection with Arizona natives Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies. Both players are well known in Arizona where Ekman-Larsson called home.

All in all, it seems that joining the Toronto Maple Leafs was a homecoming of sorts for Oliver Ekman-Larsson. The Leafs hope he can continue to show the skills and experience that made him a valuable member of Florida last season.