Toronto Maple Leafs have shown signs of wanting to make a major addition to their forward group to replace the departure of Mitch Marner and support star player Auston Matthews. When it seemed that a Stanley Cup champion with the Florida Panthers could be on the way, the Canadian franchise may have suffered a major setback involving the Boston Bruins.
The number of goals Marner contributed during the 2024–25 NHL season places him among the league’s top forwards, so it’s not a bad strategy to look to the reigning champions for a potential replacement to pair with Matthews.
The Panthers have made significant roster moves by locking in players like Sam Bennett, Brad Marchand, and Aaron Ekblad, which could have freed up space for a new signing. That scenario seemed like the perfect opportunity, but a new report shuts down the possibility of the Leafs landing a champion.
Which Panthers player could reportedly turn down the Maple Leafs?
The player who may reportedly refuse a move from the Panthers to Toronto is none other than winger Evan Rodrigues. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported that Rodrigues is still viewed “as a key piece for the Stanley Cup champions—and that he also doesn’t want to leave.” The report also notes that Rodrigues was previously fearful of being traded to the Boston Bruins in exchange for Brad Marchand.
Evan Rodrigues, of the Panthers
This situation leaves the Maple Leafs with little hope of signing Rodrigues. As Friedman also pointed out, the Panthers see Rodrigues as a reliable backup option given Matthew Tkachuk’s extended injury absence. In this context, Florida is not expected to make the 32-year-old available for a move this summer.
see also
Matthew Tkachuk, EA Sports NHL 26 cover star: Panthers forward revives tradition last seen with Blackhawks, Jonathan Toews
Who will reinforce the Maple Leafs’ forward group?
Several names have been floated for Toronto following Marner’s move to the Vegas Golden Knights. In addition to Rodrigues, the team has also been linked to Carolina Hurricanes forward Jack Roslovic. However, despite the apparent rejection from the Florida winger, the situation remains clouded by conflicting reports—and as long as there’s cap space, anything remains possible.
