NHL

NHL News: Canucks targeting Wild center while attracting interest from Maple Leafs in search of a Mitch Marner replacement

While the Toronto Maple Leafs are looking at the Vancouver Canucks as a potential source to replace Mitch Marner, the Nucks are aiming to strengthen their forward group for the 2025–26 season by closely monitoring a standout player from the Minnesota Wild.

Mitch Marner of the Maple Leafs
© Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty ImagesMitch Marner of the Maple Leafs

Vancouver Canucks are making roster moves ahead of the 2025–26 NHL season. While the Toronto Maple Leafs have shown interest in Brock Boeser as a potential replacement for Mitch Marner, the Nucks are reportedly targeting a key player from the Minnesota Wild.

Boeser recorded 25 goals and 24 assists in 71 games this season and could be a valuable addition to the Leafs‘ offense, which is set to lose Marner’s 102-point contribution. Although the Canucks forward’s future remains uncertain, Vancouver is already looking into possible replacements.

As free agency approaches, the Canadian team sees Minnesota as a viable source of reinforcements, especially as the Wild are dealing with contract issues. In that context, a new report suggests Vancouver has already made a move.

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The Wild player drawing interest from the Canucks

According to NHL insider Michael Russo, Vancouver is targeting Wild forward Marco Rossi in an effort to strengthen its offensive side amid the possible departure of players like Boeser. This report comes amid an ongoing contract dispute between Rossi and his current team.

Marco Rossi of the Minnesota Wild

Marco Rossi of the Minnesota Wild

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Will Rossi stay with the Wild?

Insider Chris Johnston recently revealed that there is no shared vision between the young forward and the Wild regarding contract terms. He also noted that Rossi could receive an offer from another team during the offseason.

NHL News: Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs reportedly willing to replace Mitch Marner with a Canucks forward

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Rossi presents an ideal profile to target in free agency. The 23-year-old player had a breakout year, posting 24 goals and 60 points last season. However, his relationship with the Wild has reportedly been strained due to tactical decisions during the playoffs, where he was dropped to the fourth line — a move that sparked frustration and growing speculation about his future.

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