Should the Toronto Maple Leafs make a move for Corey Perry? Addressing the pros and cons as rumor gains pace

Corey Perry is eligible to sign with any NHL team, and the Toronto Maple Leafs have reportedly shown interest in him.

Perry had his contract terminated by the Chicago Blackhawks in November, but the reason never came public. However, after Perry had his contract terminated, he released a statement, apologizing to the Blackhawks.

"I would like to sincerely apologize to the entire Chicago Blackhawks organization, including ownership, management, coaches, trainers, employees, and my teammates," Perry's statement said. "I would also like to apologize to my fans, and my family. I am embarrassed, and I have let you all down.

"I have started working with experts in the mental health and substance abuse fields to discuss my struggles with alcohol, and I will take whatever steps necessary to ensure this never happens again. I hope to regain the trust and respect of everyone who has believed in me throughout my career.”

This week, Perry met with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, and the veteran forward is free to sign with a new team. If he's going to play in the playoffs, he will need to sign by March 8. The Toronto Maple Leafs have shown interest in him, but should they sign him?

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Should Toronto sign Corey Perry?

On Thursday, former Toronto Maple Leaf defenseman and current TSN radio host Carlo Colaiacovo reported that there's mutual interest between Toronto and Corey Perry.

On paper, the Maple Leafs signing Perry makes a lot of sense for both parties. First off, Perry is from Ontario and has wanted to sign with Toronto for a couple of years now.

Moreover, the way Perry plays the game right now is exactly what the Maple Leafs are missing from their lineup. Perry can play on the fourth line and potentially replace Bobby McMann.

On the fourth line, Perry could be what Toronto thought Ryan Reaves would be, which is a physical presence who can also add some scoring while playing a gritty role at the bottom of the lineup.

In the last two seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning in the playoffs, Perry recorded 16 points in 29 games. He has proven time and time again that he's a playoff performer, and the Leafs have struggled to get production from the bottom of their lineup in the playoffs.

Finally, Corey Perry would likely sign for the league minimum, which would be perfect for Toronto, who's right up against the cap.