The Toronto Maple Leafs remain active in their pursuit of an impactful forward ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season, with offensive upgrades at the top of their priority list. Despite significant roster moves this offseason, the team’s quest for a right-handed top-six winger continues as they strive to build a competitive lineup around stars Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies.
Insider David Pagnotta shed new light on the team’s intentions during a recent appearance on the Hello Hockey Podcast, emphasizing Toronto’s focus on adding a right-side offensive player. The search suggests the Leafs are specifically targeting a winger, leaving players like Nazem Kadri less likely options for now.
“They’re still looking for a top-six guy, they’d still like somebody on that right side!” Pagnotta said, confirming the team’s sustained interest in reinforcing that position.
Who could fill the Leafs’ right-side void?
Among potential targets for the Maple Leafs, two names stand out: Anders Lee and Bryan Rust. While Lee may be a trade candidate around the March deadline, Rust represents an immediate option with a proven track record.
Rust, a seasoned winger with extensive experience playing alongside Sidney Crosby, boasts consistent production with six consecutive 20-plus goal seasons. Last year, the 33-year-old tallied 65 points (31 goals, 34 assists) over 71 games for the Pittsburgh Penguins. His reliability and championship experience—having won two Stanley Cups—make him an appealing candidate to complement Toronto’s core.
Although convincing Pittsburgh to part with Rust could be challenging, the Maple Leafs’ management, led by Kyle Dubas, has a reputation for creative deals and leveraging relationships within the league. Rust’s potential fit on a line with Matthews and Knies could provide the consistent offensive presence Toronto currently lacks.
Balancing cap space and assets
The Maple Leafs face constraints regarding cap space and limited premium assets, which complicates their ability to make a blockbuster move. This reality forces the organization to weigh the possibility of moving top prospects or other players to clear space for a key acquisition.
SURVEY Who do you think would be the best fit as the Maple Leafs’ right-side top-six forward?
Who do you think would be the best fit as the Maple Leafs’ right-side top-six forward?
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Toronto’s management must balance urgency with prudence as the 2025-26 season approaches, ensuring that any addition fits both the team’s style and financial structure. The Leafs’ top-six forward search is critical, especially with the need to replace the offensive production previously provided by Mitch Marner.