The Toronto Maple Leafs are undergoing a post‑Mitch Marner roster reconfiguration after trading the veteran winger to the Vegas Golden Knights in a sign‑and‑trade deal worth $96 million over eight years, in exchange for Nicolas Roy. With Auston Matthews now firmly established as the team’s main leader, the franchise remains open to making further moves to improve the roster.
The Maple Leafs have stayed active during the NHL offseason as they work to reshape their lineup. In an ongoing effort to strengthen their core, management is focused on adjusting key pieces around Matthews and ensuring consistent offensive depth heading into the 2025–26 campaign.
Marner left Toronto as one of the franchise’s all‑time top scorers, with 741 points in 657 games, signing with Vegas before free agency officially began. Replacing his presence won’t be easy, which is why Toronto may be willing to part ways with another player to make room for a potential acquisition.
Which Maple Leafs player could be on the move?
According to The Fourth Period, the player most likely to be moved this offseason to create space is right winger Calle Järnkrok. “The market hasn’t been vibrant, to this point, but the Leafs will continue to dangle him,” the outlet reported, suggesting that Toronto is exploring trade options.
Mitchell Marner #16 of the Toronto Maple Leafs waits for a faceoff against the Anaheim Ducks during an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on February 7, 2020 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Letting go of Järnkrok would provide the Maple Leafs with more salary cap flexibility to pursue other transactions in what has been a relatively quiet offseason. The Swedish forward currently carries a $2.1 million annual cap hit and is considered one of the top candidates to be moved soon.
see also
NHL News: Auston Matthews’ Toronto is reportedly not shying away from plan to fill void left by Mitch Marner’s trade
Järnkrok’s profile
Järnkrok is a 33‑year‑old Swedish center with extensive NHL experience, having played for the Nashville Predators, Seattle Kraken, Calgary Flames, and now the Toronto Maple Leafs. His contract runs through 2026 and includes a no‑trade clause, which limits potential destinations, though he may be open to a move if the right opportunity arises.
