The Toronto Maple Leafs made a series of strategic moves in the offseason to refresh their roster. Matias Maccelli, a 24-year-old forward, was acquired from the Utah Mammoth in exchange for a conditional 2027 third-round pick. Maccelli contributed 18 points last season and has one year remaining on his contract.
Dakota Joshua joined from the Vancouver Canucks for a 2028 fourth-round pick and brings physicality and depth to the bottom six. In a major move, Nicolas Roy came over from the Vegas Golden Knights in a blockbuster trade involving Mitch Marner. Roy adds two-way strength and scoring consistency with 31 points in 71 games last season.
The Leafs also reinforced their roster with grittier and more defensively responsible players. Michael Pezzetta signed a two-year deal after a scoreless season in Montreal, but he brings toughness and energy. On defense, Henry Thrun was acquired from the San Jose Sharks for Ryan Reaves.
Thrun, a 24-year-old with one year left on his deal, adds youth and mobility to the blue line after recording 25 points over 119 NHL games. These additions suggest a deliberate shift toward a more balanced and physical team structure.
Marner’s Exit Signals Major Transition As Young Prospects Compete For Roster Spots
The most notable departure was star forward Mitch Marner, who was sent to Vegas in a sign-and-trade deal after accumulating 102 points last season. His exit marks the end of an era, as he left Toronto ranked among the franchise’s all-time greats in assists and points.
Other exits include Pontus Holmberg, who signed with Tampa Bay, and Max Pacioretty, who remains unsigned. Veteran enforcer Ryan Reaves was traded to San Jose, and longtime president Brendan Shanahan’s contract was not renewed, signaling a significant organizational reset.
Mitch Marner (NHL)Several young players are vying for NHL roster spots. Easton Cowan is the top candidate after leading the OHL playoffs in scoring and helping London to a Memorial Cup win.
Defensemen Cade Weber and William Villeneuve both had productive seasons in the AHL, while forward Jacob Quillan continues to develop after a brief NHL appearance. These players may see NHL time, especially if injuries occur or top-line roles remain unfilled following Marner’s departure.
Leafs Seek Top-Six Stability And Toughness While Leaning On Elite Goaltending Duo
Replacing Marner remains a central challenge. Maccelli could get a look in the top six alongside John Tavares and William Nylander, but the Leafs may need another elite forward or a breakout performance from Cowan to solidify their top lines. General Manager Brad Treliving emphasized the need for mental toughness and a change in team identity, hinting that more roster adjustments may still be on the table to better handle high-pressure moments.
Toronto’s goaltending duo remains a strength. Anthony Stolarz led the NHL in save percentage (.926) and ranked third in high-danger save percentage, while Joseph Woll also posted strong numbers. This tandem helped the Leafs finish fourth in team save percentage league-wide.
On the fantasy front, Matthew Knies is emerging as a potential star. He posted 29 goals and 182 hits last season, showing both scoring prowess and physicality. His increased ice time and top-line role alongside Auston Matthews make him one of Toronto’s most intriguing assets for the upcoming season.
