NHL

NHL News: Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs reportedly can’t find a match for veteran bottom-six forward

The Toronto Maple Leafs, led by Auston Matthews, face challenges moving a veteran bottom-six forward as trade talks stall, complicating roster flexibility and cap space ahead of the upcoming NHL season.

Auston Matthews leads the Toronto Maple Leafs as the team navigates roster challenges ahead of the new NHL season.
© Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty ImagesAuston Matthews leads the Toronto Maple Leafs as the team navigates roster challenges ahead of the new NHL season.

Auston Matthews‘ Toronto Maple Leafs continue to navigate challenges with their roster depth, particularly in the bottom-six forward group. Veteran winger Calle Jarnkrok remains a key figure in trade discussions but has yet to attract a solid offer as the offseason progresses.

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Trade talks have been ongoing around Jarnkrok, but no concrete momentum has developed. According to a report by The Fourth Period, the situation remains complicated by his contract and no-trade clause.

“He has a $2.1 million cap hit and owns a 10-team no-trade list. The market hasn’t been vibrant, to this point, but the Leafs will continue to dangle him.” They wrote.

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Why can’t the Maple Leafs find a taker for Jarnkrok?

Jarnkrok’s presence on the trade block throughout the offseason reflects the Maple Leafs’ crowded bottom-six forward situation. General Manager Brad Treliving faces difficulties in finding a trade partner, compounded by Jarnkrok’s age, injury history, and cap hit of $2.1 million through the 2025–26 season.

Calle Jarnkrok #19 of the Toronto Maple Leafs plays against the Detroit Red Wings during a pre season game at Little Caesars Arena on October 03, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Calle Jarnkrok #19 of the Toronto Maple Leafs plays against the Detroit Red Wings during a pre season game at Little Caesars Arena on October 03, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

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While Jarnkrok’s defensive versatility and penalty-killing skills provide value, his declining offensive output and concerns over durability have lowered his appeal. Over two seasons with Toronto, he has appeared in only 71 games and recorded 28 points.

NHL News: Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs could target $12.5M star defenseman if Sabres move forward with trade

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What lies ahead for Jarnkrok and the Maple Leafs?

With training camp looming, the Maple Leafs may be compelled to keep Järnkrok on the roster or retain salary in a trade to facilitate a deal. Reducing his cap hit to just over $1 million could improve his marketability.

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Until then, Jarnkrok remains in trade limbo. This uncertainty limits Treliving’s ability to clear cap space and pursue additional roster moves, especially with both Jarnkrok and David Kampf still occupying spots on the roster.

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