The Toronto Maple Leafs entered the 2025-26 offseason facing a significant challenge: replacing the offensive production and all-around impact of Mitch Marner, who was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights. Marner, a perennial 90-plus point player, was a key component of the Leafs' offense, power play, and penalty kill. While directly replacing a player of his caliber is nearly impossible, the Leafs have embarked on a strategy to fill the void by committee and change their team identity.
The Trade and Subsequent Acquisitions
The Maple Leafs traded Marner to the Vegas Golden Knights and in return, acquired center Nicolas Roy. Roy, a Stanley Cup winner, is known for his versatility and responsible two-way play. He comes with a manageable $3 million cap hit through the 2026-27 season, providing the Leafs with financial flexibility.
In a separate move, the Leafs acquired Finnish winger Matias Maccelli from the Utah Mammoth for a 2027 third-round pick. Maccelli, 24, is a playmaking winger who had a strong 2023-24 season with 57 points but saw his role diminish the following year. The Leafs are hoping he can regain his scoring touch and provide offensive depth.
Internal Adjustments and Roster Composition
With Marner's departure, the Maple Leafs are looking for internal candidates to step up and take on larger roles. Matthew Knies, who signed a six-year contract worth $7.75 million per season, is expected to continue his development and contribute more significantly to the offense. Other forwards like Max Domi and John Tavares are also expected to play key roles.
The Leafs have also re-signed depth forward Steven Lorentz, who is known for his consistent play. Additionally, Toronto acquired Michael Pezzetta, a Toronto-born depth winger. However, the team chose not to extend a qualifying offer to Pontus Holmberg, allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent.
As of July 1, 2025, the Maple Leafs have approximately $5.8 million in cap space to spend this offseason. The team's projected cap hit is around $90.5 million, with a salary cap of $95.5 million for the 2025-26 season. The Leafs may also look to trade players like Calle Jarnkrok and David Kampf to create additional cap space.
New Team Identity
The Maple Leafs, under head coach Craig Berube, are aiming to become a more physical and versatile team. Berube wants the Leafs to be a heavy, forechecking team. The acquisitions of Roy and Pezzetta, along with the emphasis on players like Knies and Lorentz, reflect this shift in identity.
Potential Trade Targets
The Maple Leafs may explore the trade market to acquire a top-six forward to replace Marner's offensive production. General Manager Brad Treliving has acknowledged the need to fill this hole. One potential target mentioned in trade rumors is Bryan Rust from the Pittsburgh Penguins. Another potential target is Jason Robertson from the Dallas Stars, but to acquire him the Leafs may have to trade Jarnkrok and Robertson.
However, some potential reunions appear unlikely. Despite rumors, insiders dismiss the possibility of Nazem Kadri returning to Toronto due to his contract and the Flames' desire to remain competitive.
Looking Ahead
The Maple Leafs have taken steps to address the departure of Mitch Marner by acquiring new players, adjusting their roster composition, and shifting their team identity. While replacing Marner's individual production will be a challenge, the Leafs are aiming to create a more balanced and versatile team that can compete for a Stanley Cup.
