Leafs sign defenceman Franson, now must juggle salary cap to make things fit

TORONTO - The Toronto Maple Leafs have ended their contract dispute with Cody Franson.

A source says the defenceman agreed to terms on a one-year deal.

Franson, 26, had four goals and 25 assists during a career year in 2013. He's expected to play top-four minutes this season.

"Franny's back!" centre Nazem Kadri wrote on his Twitter account.

His signing does put the Leafs in a crunch against the salary cap, especially considering right-winger David Clarkson is suspended for the first 10 games of the regular season.