Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs remain in the hunt for a coveted UFA, though the deal is not yet closed

A new NHL season is in full preparation, and the Toronto Maple Leafs are among the serious contenders aiming to dethrone the Florida Panthers. Auston Matthews’ team continues to pursue the signing of a new reinforcement, though nothing concrete has been finalized yet.

Jack Roslovic, who last played for the Carolina Hurricanes, is one of the most sought-after unrestricted free agents this offseason. His connection with the Leafs has strengthened in recent days after his move to the Vancouver Canucks fell through.

Despite Toronto’s interest in adding this talented player to their roster, negotiations are currently stalled. However, the door hasn’t been closed on reviving talks.

“Roslovic, career season last year with Carolina. The door is probably most likely closed there. I don’t want to say officially, but like they’re not locking the door, but they don’t really have much room,” Frank Seravalli said on Insider Notebook.

Jack Roslovic #96 of the Carolina Hurricanes warms up.

He also added: “Some people had suggested, hey, this is a done deal with Roslovic and they’re going to announce it at some point in the future. But every side that’s connected to Jack Roslovic and the Leafs have said no, no, no deal is done here, just something that they are certainly keeping tabs on.”

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Brad Marchand’s key teammate makes big admission about Panthers’ win over Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs in latest NHL Playoffs

Canucks drift away from the race

The Vancouver Canucks were once among the top contenders to acquire the former Hurricanes player. However, according to recent reports, negotiations have cooled significantly, making his arrival to Adam Foote’s team appear stalled.

Filling the void left by Mitch Marner

The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a new reality after a franchise-altering trade sent star forward Mitch Marner to the Vegas Golden Knights. The deal marks the end of the Core Four era and leaves a massive void in the team’s top-six forward group.

All eyes will now turn to Auston Matthews and captain John Tavares, who will be tasked with picking up the offensive slack left by Marner’s departure. The front office will need to act quickly, relying on a combination of internal talent stepping up and new acquisitions to retool the roster as the team enters a challenging new chapter without one of its most productive playmakers.