The Vancouver Canucks’ decision to trade Dakota Joshua this offseason marked the end of his time with the team, where he played alongside Elias Pettersson, sending him to the Toronto Maple Leafs with Auston Matthews. The move cleared $3.25 million in cap space for Vancouver in exchange for a 2028 fourth-round pick, while giving Joshua a fresh start with one of the league’s most scrutinized franchises.
Joshua now steps into one of the NHL’s most scrutinized markets, joining a Maple Last season was a turbulent one for the Canucks, highlighted not only by injuries and inconsistent play but also by the widely reported rift between Elias Pettersson, J.T. Miller, and Rick Tocchet. These off-ice dramas contributed to a challenging environment, making media scrutiny and team dynamics particularly intense.
Speaking on The JD Bunkis Podcast, Joshua reflected on the challenges of last season in Vancouver, pointing to the persistent storylines surrounding the team. “The mental wear and tear of going in and out took its toll last year… we were always in the media spotlight for something every week. In Toronto, I got to imagine it’s pretty similar,” he said, noting that the experience has prepared him for what lies ahead with the Maple Leafs.
How will Joshua handle Toronto’s intense market?
For many players, the jump to Toronto comes with an unavoidable learning curve. Joshua acknowledged that while Vancouver offered plenty of media attention, the scale in Toronto is larger and more relentless. “As far as getting an understanding of how things work… it didn’t make it easier on anybody in the room,” he said of last season’s coverage, adding that the constant spotlight can be both a challenge and a motivator.
Dakota Joshua addresses his move to Toronto, saying last season in Vancouver prepared him for the media intensity ahead. (Photo by Codie McLachlan/Getty Images)
What the Maple Leafs expect from Joshua this season
Toronto acquired Joshua not only for his physical style and two-way reliability but also for his ability to handle high-pressure situations. His blend of size, forechecking ability, and defensive commitment gives head coach Sheldon Keefe another option in depth roles — a factor that could be vital in a postseason push.
With training camp on the horizon, Joshua will have the chance to establish himself early in a lineup hungry for playoff success. The Maple Leafs’ first test of the season will quickly reveal whether his experience in Vancouver’s drama-filled environment has given him the composure needed to thrive under Toronto’s brightest lights.
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