David Kirouac-Imagn Images [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/65fec892-d8be-483e-a8ce-6f2a590868b3.jpeg] David Kirouac-Imagn Images Toronto Marlies defenseman Topi Niemela has signed a one-year deal in Sweden with the Malmo Redhawks, it was announced Monday. Niemela, a 2020 third-round pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs, just finished his second full season with the Marlies, collecting two goals and 20 assists for 22 points in 61 regular season games. With Toronto having made the playoffs, Niemela got into two games with the team and put up two assists. Hailing from Oulu, Finland, Niemela came over to North America at the end of the 2022-23 season and has since gotten into 135 career games with the Marlies. Over that time, he accumulated 11 goals and 52 assists for 63 points. Prior to that, Niemela spent parts of four seasons playing for Karpat in Finland's top professional league. With Niemela heading off to the SHL, it likely ends his time in the Maple Leafs organization. Although the Leafs could keep his rights if they extend him a qualifying offer, it looks unlikely that they do so. Niemela is still a talented defender and could attract interest from other teams if he has a solid season with the Redhawks.
