Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs reportedly eyeing Alex Ovechkin teammate, as Mitch Marner is expected to exit the team

The NHL is experiencing a busy offseason, as franchises across the league slowly begin preparations for the upcoming season. In this context, the Toronto Maple Leafs are looking to make headlines. With Mitch Marner’s departure appearing increasingly likely, the team may look to a potential replacement from the Washington Capitals — a current teammate of Alex Ovechkin — to support Auston Matthews on offense.

According to recent reports, Andrew Mangiapane — a current teammate of Ovechkin and a key part of the Capitals’ system — is in Craig Berube’s plans as a potential addition to the roster for next season.

The news was reported by NHL Insider David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, who confirmed that, in addition to the Maple Leafs, the Seattle Kraken are also showing strong interest in acquiring the forward’s services.

“I expect Seattle and Toronto to pursue pending UFA Andrew Mangiapane; there will be others,” Pagnotta stated.

Andrew Mangiapane #88 of the Washington Capitals skates against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on April 06, 2025 in Elmont, New York.

What would the Maple Leafs gain by adding Mangiapane?

Andrew Mangiapane, despite a quieter 2024-25 with the Capitals, still offers valuable upside for the Toronto Maple Leafs. His 2021–22 35-goal season with Calgary shows his scoring potential. A dip in recent production (14 goals, 28 points) might make him a more affordable signing.

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Mitch Marner has reportedly turned down two serious suitors for his future beyond Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs

The Leafs could benefit from Mangiapane’s versatile, two-way game and relentless forechecking. He’s defensively responsible and could provide much-needed secondary scoring. A change of scenery might spark a rebound, fitting well into Toronto‘s offensive structure and adding grit.

Ultimately, it’s a low-risk, high-reward move if the Leafs can sign him to a value contract. Mangiapane has the skill to be a consistent 20-25 goal scorer, and rediscovering that form in Toronto would significantly boost their depth and playoff aspirations.

Seattle Kraken also in pursuit

While Toronto has set its sights on the potential addition of Andrew Mangiapane, they’re not the only team showing interest in the forward. According to recent reports, the Seattle Kraken are also open to the idea of bringing him in.