Toronto Maple Leafs have initiated a sale process, assessing available options within the league. According to Elliotte Friedman during Hockey Night In Canada, this move is not expected to produce any major surprises. Recently, the Maple Leafs and their captain, Auston Matthews, reaffirmed their commitment to one another.
Current Season Struggles
The Maple Leafs are currently facing significant challenges. As of Saturday, their record stands at 24 wins, 21 losses, and 9 overtime losses, placing them last in the Atlantic Division. The team is on a troubling six-game losing streak, the worst in the NHL.
Friedman noted that the current standings have not aligned with expectations for Toronto. Historically, the Maple Leafs have maintained the longest playoff appearance streak in the NHL, reaching the postseason for nine consecutive seasons.
Trade Considerations
This season marks a shift for the Leafs, who have not needed to consider selling players in recent years. Last season, they traded their 2026 first-round pick and forward Fraser Minten to the Boston Bruins in exchange for defenseman Brandon Carlo. The Maple Leafs’ pick is top-5 protected, potentially allowing them to retain it if they continue to struggle.
- PENDING FREE AGENTS:
- Bobby McMann: 29 years old, on track to achieve career highs in goals and points.
- Scott Laughton: Acquired last season, pending unrestricted free agent, desires to remain with the team.
- Troy Stecher: A valuable free agent from waivers, averages 20:14 minutes of ice time, gaining trust from coach Craig Berube.
Future Draft Considerations
As the Maple Leafs look to reshape their roster, they have limited draft capital after dealing their first-round picks for 2026 and 2027. They currently hold three picks in the upcoming draft: a third-round, a fifth-round, and a seventh-round selection.
Key Dates
General managers are eyeing the trade deadline on March 6. Additionally, a roster freeze related to the Winter Olympics will be in effect from February 4 at 3 p.m. ET until February 22 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
With the upcoming trade deadline and a unique position in the standings, the Maple Leafs are poised for potential changes as they seek to improve their performance and reclaim their playoff stature.
