The Toronto Maple Leafs' 2025 offseason has been largely defined by the departure of Mitch Marner in a sign-and-trade with the Vegas Golden Knights. However, several other players have also departed from the team, marking a significant roster shake-up. While Marner's exit dominated headlines, these other departures, though less significant, are still noteworthy and contribute to the evolving landscape of the team.
One of the more surprising departures is that of Pontus Holmberg. The 26-year-old forward, known for his versatility and two-way play, became an unrestricted free agent after the Maple Leafs did not extend a qualifying offer. Holmberg's ability to draw penalties and his strong defensive game earned him praise from coach Craig Berube, even earning him a promotion to the second line at one point. He also played in all but one of the team's 13 postseason games. Holmberg signed a two-year contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning. His return to Toronto is slated for December 8, 2025, when the Lightning visit the Maple Leafs.
Ryan Reaves was traded to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for defenseman Henry Thrun. Reaves' return to Toronto is scheduled for December 11, 2025, when the Sharks play the Maple Leafs. Thrun, 24, has one season remaining on his two-year contract.
Alex Steeves, who played a combined 14 games for the Maple Leafs, also departed. He signed with the Boston Bruins and will return to Toronto on November 8, 2025, if he makes the Bruins' roster.
Other departures include Alex Steeves, Matt Murray, Ty Voit, Cedric Pare, Nick Abruzzese, and Max Pacioretty. Additionally, key assistant coach Lane Lambert was hired by the Seattle Kraken as their new head coach.
These departures signal a shift in the Maple Leafs' strategy, with General Manager Brad Treliving aiming to build a tougher and more passionate team. The additions of Nicolas Roy, Matias Maccelli, and Dakota Joshua are intended to bring a different dynamic to the roster. Treliving has also re-signed John Tavares, Matthew Knies, and Steven Lorentz.
Several players have been brought in to fill the holes left by these departures. Matias Maccelli was acquired in a trade with the Utah Mammoth. Dakota Joshua was acquired from the Vancouver Canucks. Nicolas Roy arrived from the Vegas Golden Knights as part of the Mitch Marner trade. Michael Pezzetta signed a two-year contract. Other additions include Travis Boyd, Ben King, Ryan McCleary, Benoit-Olivier Groulx, and Vinni Lettieri.
Despite these changes, some observers feel that the Maple Leafs haven't changed enough of their culture this offseason. The team still has Auston Matthews, William Nylander, Matthew Knies, and John Tavares. However, questions remain about the team's depth and whether the new additions can adequately replace Marner's production.
The Maple Leafs may not be done making moves this offseason, as they are reportedly looking to add another top-six forward. Potential trade pieces include Nick Robertson and David Kampf. The team is also linked to free agent forward Jack Roslovic.