Muzzin on possibility of re-signing with Leafs: 'I'd love to stay'

Jake Muzzin had nothing but positive things to say about the Toronto Maple Leafs when asked about his experience with the team so far.

"The organization, the way they look after us, the guys here, the city, the buzz in the city about hockey is huge," the defenseman told the assembled media, including Sportsnet, on Monday. "Being close to home is always a nice touch, especially with a little one around now, so there's lots of good things here and I'd love to stay."

The pending unrestricted free agent is expected to make his return to the lineup Monday against the Nashville Predators after missing the last 10 games with a broken foot. Fellow blue-liner Tyson Barrie is also a pending UFA.

Muzzin leads the squad in hits despite his absence and ranks second on the team in blocked shots and average ice time.

The 30-year-old has been a key cog on the back end for the Maple Leafs since the club acquired him from the Los Angeles Kings on Jan. 28, 2019, almost one year ago to the day.