The Toronto Maple Leafs are actively searching for a high-quality right winger to play alongside Auston Matthews on the first line, especially after Mitch Marner’s departure to the Vegas Golden Knights. The gap is significant, and names have already started to circulate.
Although they have already added Matias Maccelli, who is expected to play with John Tavares (who just signed a new contract) and William Nylander, they still need another piece to fully round out the offense. Several player profiles stand out in Toronto’s search.
The Maple Leafs of the star Matthews currently have $27.2 million in cap space and are highly motivated to fill key gaps left by Marner’s exit. In this context, Toronto is carefully evaluating its options to strengthen the forward group before training camp begins. The offseason presents the ideal opportunity to negotiate a big trade.
Three names of interest in Toronto
According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, the Maple Leafs have three notable names on their trade radar to fill the right wing spot: Bryan Rust (Pittsburgh Penguins), Jared McCann (Seattle Kraken), and Jordan Kyrou (St. Louis Blues).
Bryan Rust of the Pittsburgh Penguins
Rust, who has three years remaining on his contract and a no-movement clause that expired on June 30, could be an attractive option if the Penguins decide to sell. Meanwhile, McCann has two years left on his deal with the Kraken and a 10-team no-trade list.
Kyrou’s case is more complicated, as he activated his no-movement clause on July 1. However, he could still be an intriguing target. Like the other two names appealing to the Maple Leafs, acquiring him would involve significant moves in a market driven by urgent needs.
