Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images | Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images The Toronto Maple Leafs had their worst season in a decade during the 2025-26 season. Over the course of the beginning of the offseason, there has already been a lot of turnover in the Maple Leafs front office, with John Chayka and Mats Sundin taking over for Brad Treliving. Heading into the summer, the Maple Leafs have a lot of work to get back to the level of hockey fans are accustomed to seeing. In Chayka's second day as general manager, the Maple Leafs landed the first overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo, scheduled for June 26th. Over the course of the past few days, Auston Matthews' future has been in jeopardy, as many are not sure if he will remain on the team for opening day in the 2026-27 season. John Chayka speaks on TSN's OverDrive John Chayka was a guest on TSN's show OverDrive, where former Maple Leaf Jeff O'Neil, Bryan Hayes, and Jamie McLennan asked the new general manager about where he sees the Maple Leafs going from here, Auston Matthews' situation with the Maple Leafs, and the opportunity of drafting first overall. Chayka opened speaking on Matthews' future and where the two parties currently stand. "I think Auston has invested his entire career, and what the next decade of his career looks like, I think it's important that he feels a connectivity, an alignment. He has a similar vision and passion that we do, and so we'll have those conversations and get together and share notes. And honestly, I want to be a good listener." "He's the captain, it's his room. He's been through the ups and downs of this market. Obviously, Mats has a unique perspective to share as well, and I'm sure there'll be some good back and forth in that regard. But I totally understand the perspective of you only have so many years as a player, and it goes by quick. And you want to make sure that you feel fully aligned and gauged in what's going on, and I have no problem having those conversations, sharing our thoughts, learning, seeing if there's a shared, common vision, and charting a path forward." Chayka added. Matthews has played a massive role in the Maple Leafs organization since being drafted in 2016. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players to don the Maple Leaf. However, over the past two seasons, he hasn't been the player many have expected, taking a massive step backwards in his game. With the Matthews' still being in the prime of his career, it is understandable for him to be unsure of where the Maple Leafs are heading, and if that is a path he is willing to take. Chayka and Matthews are set to meet in Arizona over the coming days to understand where the future stands. John Chayka understands his reputation Chayka later discussed his reputation and his relationship with other general managers around the NHL, and how he feels it shouldn't affect who the Maple Leafs are able to make deals with. We made quite a few in Arizona as we were trying to move that team around and get it into a competitive position. I think the main theme is that whenever you're trying to make a deal or create a transaction, there's two sides to the equation, and you're trying to understand what they're trying to accomplish. You're trying to accomplish something for your club as well." Chayka said. "By no means am I looking to make friends or anything like that, I'm trying to do the best thing in the interest of the Toronto Maple Leafs, that's my loyalties, and that's where that lies. For Edward Rogers and Keith Pelley and the whole staff, that's my focus. But at the same time, I think in order to get transactions done consistently, you have to be honest and forthright and direct in your dealings. And like I said, historically I've been able to do that." Getting the opportunity to draft first overall Chayka then ended of the interview speaking on what it means to be given the honour of drafting first overall, and how that can impact the Maple Leafs organization moving forward. "The first overall pick is an organizational pick. It's an important one to get right, and we'll dig in, and I'll be a part of that process. But I would say, honestly, my part is a part of it. At the end of the day, though, it will be on my record, and I own that. But at the same time, that's why you have to have a good staff and empower them to do a good job." Chayka later added. The next few months should be interesting for the Maple Leafs as there seems to be a lot of turnover on the way. Maple Leafs fans should feel encouraged with the job Chayka has done just one week in. The next important step for Chayka and Mats Sundin is execution, on both their promises to Auston Matthews and the fan base.

Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images | Eric Hartline-Imagn Images The Carolina Hurricanes and Colorado Avalanche have dominated the postseason in 2026. They each remain undefeated as we have hit the midpoint of the second round. Domination From the Very Beginning of the Playoffs The Hurricanes dominated the first round, destroying the Ottawa Senators from start to finish. For many who watched the games, it was clear the teams were far more uneven than the scores suggested. The Colorado Avalanche, on the other hand, played a much tighter series against the Los Angeles Kings before blowing them out in LA during game four, 5-1. The second round has seen much of the same for both teams. The Avalanche have proved this postseason that they can win any type of hockey game, including a 9-6 win over the Minnesota Wild in Game 1. Game two proved to be much of the same for the Avs as they took game two with a final score of 5-2. The Carolina Hurricanes have looked like the team to beat to begin the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. They have jumped out to a 3-0 lead over the Philadelphia Flyers, and don’t seem to be looking back anytime soon. With the Canes’ win on Thursday, they became the 13th team to begin the NHL Playoffs with a 7-0 record. Eight of the first twelve teams went on to win the Stanley Cup. The Hurricanes are firing on all cylinders at the right time, netminder Frederik Andersen looks like he can’t be beat, their offense is scoring at will, while teams have a tough time getting past their blue line. The Hurricanes Jump into the Record Book The Avalanche have a chance to join the Hurricanes in the record book on Saturday. The Avalanche remain the favorites to win the Stanley Cup; however, the Hurricanes are making a case to be the favorites if the two meet in the Stanley Cup Finals. While their records so far are great, they will have to keep this up if they reach the Conference Finals, as the games will continue to get tougher.

Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images | Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images Toronto Maple Leafs CEO Keith Pelley cost Brad Treliving his job with the Maple Leafs over the course of last season, and he simply can't make the same mistakes with John Chayka and Mats Sundin next season. According to The Athletic, Keith Pelley made an appearance in the Maple Leafs war room during last season's trade deadline. Pelley reportedly came into the room with trade return suggestions that were likely created by artificial intelligence. Heading into the trade deadline, Pelley was obviously concerned with the job former general manager Brad Treliving had done, and didn't feel he was the right person to lead the group moving forward. So instead of firing Treliving earlier, he decided to take matters into his own hands and run the trade deadline on his own. The use of AI in Keith Pelley's suggested trades Pelley attempted to help scouts find players and returns he thought were worthy of the deals they were making. Other NHL general managers found that Treliving was extremely difficult to work with, as they felt none of their trade discussions would get anywhere, likely due to the fact that Pelley was pushing for deals that were unrealistic and based on AI. Reports have suggested that Pelley remains hands-off with the Toronto Raptors, Toronto FC, and the Toronto Argos, but with the Maple Leafs, it tends to be a whole different story. For someone who doesn't have any experience in hockey, this seems like a terrible idea. Pelley needs to trust his management staff These kinds of actions caught the staff members off guard, as he came to the room with outlined trades the team should make. At some point, Pelley is going to need to trust his management group if he is not willing to hire a President of Hockey Operations. These kinds of maneuvers ultimately cost Brad Treliving his position as general manager. Do I believe Treliving is still the right person for the job, no; however, not having faith in the people you put in place is not a good feeling for anyone involved in the organization, including players. Moving forward, if Pelley wants the Maple Leafs to achieve any success, he needs to back off and let John Chayka and Mats Sundin do their jobs. No team in all of sports can be successful if this is the direction they want to take. Chayka and Sundin are placed in this position for a reason, just as Treliving was. If you want to be a part of the picture, then you need a different position within the organization and MLSE.

Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images | John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images Toronto Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka is set to meet with head coach Craig Berube in the coming days, according to an NHL insider, Pierre LeBrun, on TSN's show OverDrive. What the Maple Leafs are planning to do with Craig Berube is yet to be determined, as the meeting in the coming days will likely touch upon where the two are at, and if Berube will remain as the Maple Leafs head coach next season. John Chayka likely to keep Craig Berube next season One line from Pierre LeBrun should stand out to Maple Leafs fans: "If I had to handicap it, I think John Chayka will be comfortable keeping Craig Berube as their head coach." This should concern Maple Leafs fans, as it looks like John Chayka will try to keep Berube behind the Leafs bench. The feeling around the Maple Leafs organization from management is that this past season was a blip and not a true representation of what this team truly is. If that is the case, Berube will remain as head coach, simply due to the fact that in his first season with the team, they won the Atlantic Division for the first time since 1999-2000, and when on there furthest playoff run in the Auston Matthews, going to the second round game seven. John Chayka has commented on his thoughts regarding Craig Berube since being with the Maple Leafs, and has already mentioned that he is willing to keep him behind the bench, answering a question during their initial press conference, "yes, of course." Chayka later added, "It's hard to find great coaches. He's a great coach. I was lucky enough to work with Rick Tocchet in Arizona. Obviously, there's a deep friendship there, and I think they share notes and ideas on things, so I'm not starting from zero, and I think Craig's a really, really good coach." It could be for the better to move on from Berube Many are not sure that keeping Berube could be in the best interest of the Maple Leafs at this point. Berube has a history of not playing younger talent and relying on their veterans to carry the majority of the load. Easton Cowan viewed this firsthand, as the coaching staff throughout the early and mid parts of the season opted for a more veteran lineup to get them through their hardships. With the Maple Leafs getting the first overall pick, and likely selecting Gavin McKenna, he may hinder from a coach like Berube if not given a fair opportunity to develop and be the player he is supposed to become. What is for certain is that if Berube and the Maple Leafs struggle out of the gates, he will be on the way out of Toronto. The Maple Leafs can't afford to keep waiting for this team to be what they are supposed to be; action will need to happen. There will be a much clearer picture of what the future holds for Berube following their meeting in the coming days.

Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images The Toronto Maple Leafs are entering one of the most important off-seasons in franchise history. After missing the playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade, newly hired general manager John Chayka and senior executive advisor Mats Sundin understand the organization needs to take necessary steps forward to get back to what this team once was. While the conversations remain about Auston Matthews and the first overall pick, the Maple Leafs need to begin considering players they should target this summer, and one that sticks out is Patrick Kane. The Detroit Red Wings took a gamble in 2023 When the Detroit Red Wings signed Kane back in November of 2023, there were major concerns surrounding whether he could still be an elite NHL player following hip resurfacing surgery. Many were not sure whether the future Hall of Famer could play to the level we once saw in Chicago. Just a few seasons ago, that narrative had flipped. While he is not the player we saw with the Blackhawks, he continued to play a key role in the Red Wings' top-six, being one of their best forwards over this span. He remains one of the most skilled, intelligent players in the NHL and provides the Wings with the leadership needed to get to the next level. With the team not working out as many anticipated in Detroit, Kane may become available for teams to acquire this summer in free agency, and the Toronto Maple Leafs need to be ready to make a splash when called upon. For the Maple Leafs, Kane provides the type of skill that they have been missing. The offensive power the Maple Leafs missed during the 2025-26 season Toronto’s offence completely fell apart at different points throughout the 2025-26 season. Auston Matthews struggled mightily to generate offensive chances, and William Nylander was forced to carry too much of the offensive load. The team lacked a true playmaker to play in the top six alongside Auston Matthews to get him performing at the level he is capable of. Kane may not be the player he once was, but offensively, he still plays the game at an elite level. His vision and patience with the puck would immediately help Toronto’s power play and top six. If Patrick Kane becomes available on July 1st, there will be no secret that he will become a player many are vying for. If the Maple Leafs are serious about getting back into playoff contention, they need more than just internal improvement. They need proven players who can elevate the skill level of the roster. Patrick Kane may not be the superstar he once was, but he still can make a major impact for a team searching for offensive power.

Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images | Bob Frid-Imagn Images Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Joseph Woll will join Team USA for the 2026 IIHF World Hockey Championships. The USA announced their preliminary roster on Thursday, Woll will be alongside Devin Cooley and Drew Commesso to round out the netminders. Joseph Woll had a shaky season with the Maple Leafs in 2025-26, posting a .899 for a 15-6-7 record, appearing in 39 games. Woll also posted a career worst 3.34 goals against, but much of that can be accounted for by the Maple Leafs defensive struggles throughout the entirety of the regular season. Joseph Woll reflecting on a tough season in Toronto When Woll was asked about joining the USA at the World Championships, he was noncommittal as he wanted to focus on the Maple Leafs and reflect on what is seen as a down year for the 27-year-old. Woll can use the IIHF World Hockey Championships to help regain his top form, which the Maple Leafs are going to need if they want a chance of qualifying for the postseason in 2026-27. The Missouri native was undoubtedly the Maple Leafs' number one goalie, and he will look to continue that way as he has proven to be successful at the highest level. “I think it was a bit of up and down. I felt like I had some stretches where I was feeling good about my game, and some stretches where things weren’t necessarily going my way. At the end of the day, I felt, if I look at the season as a whole, I feel like maybe I’ve had some stuff left on the table." Woll said at the Maple Leafs ' end-of-season media availability. "I know what I’m capable of, what I’ve shown here before, and I don’t think I properly lived up to what I’m capable of." Woll later added. Joseph Woll joining other Maple Leafs at the World Championships Woll is set to join Maple Leafs teammates Morgan Rielly, John Tavares, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson for the tournament. Notable names that Team USA announced today include Matthew Tkachuk, Ryan Leonard, and Justin Faulk. Matthew Knies will not be joining the team, which will come as a shock to some. Woll does have some prior experience representing the USA, as he was part of the 2017 IIHF World Junior Championship gold medal roster. The championships are set to begin on May 15th in Switzerland, where the USA will look to defend its title.

Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images The top three defencemen in the NHL from this past season were named on Thursday, for a chance at winning the historic Norris Trophy. Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche, Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres, and Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets all remain in the running for the award. Players Nominated for the Norris Trophy Dahlin is receiving his first Norris Trophy nomination, helping the Sabres end their 14-year playoff drought while winning the Atlantic Division. The Sabres captain notched a career high in production this season, recording 74 points—including 19 goals—in 77 games, while averaging more than 24 minutes of ice time. Despite a leave of absence in mid-November, Dahlin returned and dominated the NHL. Over the past several seasons, the Sabres have relied heavily on him, and his game reached another level this year. Dahlin was also nominated for the Bill Masterton Trophy, awarded to the player who best exemplifies perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey on and off the ice. Makar, on the other hand, is nominated for the award for the sixth time in his career, having won the Norris three times over that span. He has established himself as the best defenceman of his generation, earning a nomination in every season of his NHL career except one. With this latest nod, Makar joins elite company alongside Bobby Orr with six straight nominations. The Calgary native produced 79 points, including 20 goals, to help the Avalanche win the Presidents’ Trophy. He has also been a force in the postseason, helping the Avs to six straight wins to begin their Stanley Cup run. Zach Werenski is the final nomination for the Norris Trophy, having been put in this position for the second consecutive season. Werenski carried the Blue Jackets throughout the second half of the season, nearly leading them to a playoff berth. Werenski led his time in points, as a defenceman, and finished second among all NHL defenders behind Evan Bouchard, with 81 goals, including 22 goals in 75 contests. The Michigan native completed all this, with the Jackets not having a forward within the top 50 of NHL scoring, with Kirill Marchenko finishing 57th. The Norris Trophy is voted on by members of the PHWA, with the NHL Awards being set for June 25th, in Las Vegas.

Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images | Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images When the Toronto Maple Leafs signed Michael Pezzetta during the 2025 offseason, the move was viewed as a depth addition aimed at bringing more toughness and energy to the bottom-six. The Maple Leafs had consistently been criticized for lacking physicality and emotion in key moments, and Pezzetta represented the type of player who Craig Berube has always appreciated throughout his coaching and playing career. His willingness to finish checks and stand up for teammates made him an intriguing fit for Toronto’s fourth line. Pezzetta signed in Toronto after spending four seasons with the Montreal Canadiens organization, where he became a favourite to many because of his physical brand of hockey. The Toronto native has never been known to score you a bunch of points, but plays an important factor into every shift he is on the ice. When the Maple Leafs signed him, the expectation was never for Pezzetta to be an everyday player with the organization, but rather someone who could add depth and spark the lineup whenever called upon. Michael Pezzetta's stats during the 2025-26 season Pezzetta appeared in just nine games for the Maple Leafs during the 2025-26 season, failing to record a point while averaging limited ice time in a fourth-line role. He was used strictly at the end of the season, when the Maple Leafs were out of playoff contention, and had traded away key players in their lineup. During his nine appearances with the Maple Leafs, Pezzetta was a minus six and tallied 35 penalty minutes. With the Toronto Marlies, Pezzetta played a much higher role within the team. Pezzetta quickly became a leader in the locker room, paving the way for the younger players. He suited up in 39 games for the Marlies this season, recording five goals and six assists for 11 points, while rocking a minus six, with 52 penalty minutes. Pezzetta had a difficult time getting a chance with the Maple Leafs this season. Up until the Olympic break, Craig Berube believed there was still a chance for the Maple Leafs to get into the postseason, just trailing the second wild-card spot by six points. When the Maple Leafs quickly went on a losing streak post-break, the narrative switched fast, which led to Pezzetta's opportunity with the NHL squad. Did Michael Pezzetta live up to expectations? Given the expectations surrounding Pezzetta's signing, it is difficult to say whether he disappointed or exceeded expectations, because they were fairly low from the beginning of the season. When Pezzetta was with the NHL team, I would say he did a good job and played exactly the way the Maple Leafs were hoping for. Pezzetta was never going to be a player who would show up on the scoreboard. In his first appearance with the Maple Leafs, he dropped the gloves and showed fans what he was here to do. In his little time with the Maple Leafs, I would say, he did a fairly good job. At the same time, Toronto likely hoped Pezzetta could push for a more consistent role throughout the season, especially considering the team’s struggles at different stages of the campaign. With the AHL team, he never pushed himself or got into an elevated role to have Berube and the rest of the coaching staff feel that we need him in the NHL to turn the tide. Instead, he remained a passenger on a good Marlies team, leaving it nearly impossible to get his chance with the Maple Leafs. It is also fair to assume that if the Maple Leafs did not become sellers at the trade deadline, Pezzetta would have never gotten his chance in the NHL this season. What can we expect from Michael Pezzetta next season? I believe Maple Leafs fans can expect to see the same from Pezzetta next season. If he is called up to the Maple Leafs at points during the season, Leafs fans should buckle up and be ready to see the same intensity and action as they did this year. With John Chayka and Mats Sundin now leading the front office, Toronto is expected to make several changes to the roster, leaving Pezzetta likely out of the picture heading into the start of the 2026-27 season. The Maple Leafs are focused on getting younger, faster, and more structured, which will make it difficult for Pezzetta to gain a role within the lineup. Pezzetta is also set to enter the final season of his contract, which could lead to the Maple Leafs just deciding to assign him to the Marlies. Pezzetta can play a key role in the success of the Marlies next season, as the AHL will always provide opportunities for players like these. Pezzetta brings a lot of energy and physicality to any lineup he is in, which will always be of value to a contending roster.

Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images | Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images Former Toronto Maple Leaf Mitch Marner has been having the most playoff success of his career with the Vegas Golden Knights in 2025-26. After a slow regular season, where Marner at times looked disjointed, he has finally found his footing at the most important time of the season, scoring nine points in the team's first seven contests between the Anaheim Ducks and the first-round matchup with the Seattle Kraken. Marner is likely to surpass his career high of 13 points in a single playoff run, which came during the 2024-25 run, when the Maple Leafs lost to the Florida Panthers in game seven of the second round. Mitch Marner's strong performance as of late Mitch Marner seems to be showing up on the highlight reels, seemingly every game. I'm not sure whether this is because Maple Leafs fans don't want to see their former top five pick succeed, or whether he has actually been playing this well. Over the past two contests, he has recorded five points, with two of those being goals, while also rocking a +5 over those two games. Marner has then taken over the point lead for Vegas, sitting at the top alongside former Stanley Cup Champion Jack Eichel. Mitch Marner's regular-season falter can be chalked up and left in the side burners, as many of the Golden Knights players also struggled to produce at the rate we are used to. They fired head coach Bruce Cassidy with just one week remaining in the campaign, leading to changes in the way they played under John Tortorella, which has helped Marner mightily. Over the past nine seasons, the Maple Leafs have not been able to get this kind of performance out of Marner, for which reason nobody is quite sure; however, what he is doing with the Golden Knights has clearly been working. Consistency throughout the postseason for Marner Marner has also registered a point in each of the team's seven games, except for just one coming on April 24th. The Maple Leafs struggled mightily this season, finishing at the bottom of the Atlantic Division, just one season after Marner's departure. The Maple Leafs are now working on retooling their roster to get back to the level the team was at while they had superstar winger Mitch Marner. If Marner's play continues, Maple Leafs fans are going to be sitting here wondering what went wrong in Toronto, and why he couldn't have played to a similar level when it mattered most.

andatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images | Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images The Maple Leafs' season was filled with disaster from the very beginning as they finished dead last in the Atlantic Division and one spot ahead of the New York Rangers in the entire Eastern Conference. For a team that has little to no prospects and not a lot of draft capital over the course of the next two years, this was a gift from the hockey gods that the Maple Leafs desperately needed. Auston Matthews' future still dominates the headlines The Maple Leafs' first overall pick selection has been making waves on the media front, and has softened the Auston Matthews rumours just a touch. It was reported that Matthews wasn't sure if he was ready to commit to the Toronto Maple Leafs past his contract, which expires in 2028, and he may be out as early as before next season. While gaining the first overall pick doesn't likely change all of Matthews' feelings, it sheds a lighter mood on where the Maple Leafs are heading. What the Toronto Maple Leafs cannot do is trade their first overall selection for a package of either players or picks, who you hope will play a key role in their success next season, to make the Maple Leafs captain happy. At this stage of Matthews' career and the current state of the team, you can't make a move to make him happy. If he is not willing to commit, these decisions have to be made by John Chayka and Mats Sundin; otherwise, it will continue to backfire on the organization, especially if Matthews decides to leave. Maple Leafs are likely not contenders next season With the stage the Maple Leafs are in, no matter what they do this offseason, it is still very unlikely they will be able to contend for a Stanley Cup next season. I do believe it is very possible for the Maple Leafs to make the postseason with the roster they currently have; however, it will be difficult to become a true contender in just one season. The Maple Leafs need to use their first-round selection to pick the player who can help them the most moving forward. Their cup window, depending on what they do this offseason, can open as early as heading into the 2027-28 season, making Auston Matthews' opinion irrelevant. The Toronto Maple Leafs need to do what's best for the organization at this point. The understanding to many at this point is that Matthews needs some convincing, but, at the same time, a lot of people need convincing on Auston Matthews, with how the past two seasons have transpired. Time will tell what the Maple Leafs will do with their first overall pick; however, their best option would be to keep it and build around either Gavin McKenna or Ivar Stenberg moving forward. The Toronto Maple Leafs were awarded a gift on Tuesday, as they won the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery. The Maple Leafs' season was filled with disaster from the very beginning as they finished dead last in the Atlantic Division and one spot ahead of the New York Rangers in the entire Eastern Conference. For a team that has little to no prospects and not a lot of draft capital over the course of the next two years, this was a gift from the hockey gods that the Maple Leafs desperately needed. Auston Matthews' future still dominates the headlines The Maple Leafs' first overall pick selection has been making waves on the media front, and has softened the Auston Matthews rumours just a touch. It was reported that Matthews wasn't sure if he was ready to commit to the Toronto Maple Leafs past his contract, which expires in 2028, and he may be out as early as before next season. While gaining the first overall pick doesn't likely change all of Matthews' feelings, it sheds a lighter mood on where the Maple Leafs are heading. What the Toronto Maple Leafs cannot do is trade their first overall selection for a package of either players or picks, who you hope will play a key role in their success next season, to make the Maple Leafs captain happy. At this stage of Matthews' career and the current state of the team, you can't make a move to make him happy. If he is not willing to commit, these decisions have to be made by John Chayka and Mats Sundin; otherwise, it will continue to backfire on the organization, especially if Matthews decides to leave. Maple Leafs are likely not contenders next season With the stage the Maple Leafs are in, no matter what they do this offseason, it is still very unlikely they will be able to contend for a Stanley Cup next season. I do believe it is very possible for the Maple Leafs to make the postseason with the roster they currently have; however, it will be difficult to become a true contender in just one season. The Maple Leafs need to use their first-round selection to pick the player who can help them the most moving forward. Their cup window, depending on what they do this offseason, can open as early as heading into the 2027-28 season, making Auston Matthews' opinion irrelevant. The Toronto Maple Leafs need to do what's best for the organization at this point. The understanding to many at this point is that Matthews needs some convincing, but, at the same time, a lot of people need convincing on Auston Matthews, with how the past two seasons have transpired. Time will tell what the Maple Leafs will do with their first overall pick; however, their best option would be to keep it and build around either Gavin McKenna or Ivar Stenberg moving forward.

Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images | Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images It is no secret by now that the Toronto Maple Leafs have hired the newest duo to run the front office, with John Chayka taking over as the general manager and Mats Sundin as the Maple Leafs senior executive advisor. The pair have a lot of work to do to get the Maple Leafs back to the team we are all accustomed to; however, this one player does not seem to be on the move anytime soon. As the Maple Leafs begin their preparation for the NHL Draft, where they were awarded the first overall pick and free agency with an emphasis on getting better, they will have to do a deep analysis of the roster currently, and who they best see fit moving forward. One player who has been circled in trade rumours throughout the regular season was Max Domi. The Toronto native struggled mightily at times this season and may not have a set role within the lineup next year. Max Domi's rocky season with the Maple Leafs Domi has an average annual value of $3.7 million, which ranks among the top five among Maple Leafs forwards. Domi did not play anywhere near that status this season, as he bounced throughout the lineup, even coming close to being a healthy scratch twice during the latter part of November, bleeding into early December. While a resurgence saw Domi get back to his game in January, this was short-lived as he quickly began to struggle once again as the season came to a close. With Mats Sundin playing in an important role within the Maple Leafs organization, it is tough to see Domi on the way out. The Domi and Sundin families are extremely close, with Tie Domi and Mats playing together for a long stretch of time in Toronto. Tie and Mats have remained best friends, with Max considering Mats as a father figure and role model. When the Maple Leafs took a trip to Sweden for the NHL Global Series during November of 2023, Max reflected on the Toronto legend and what he has meant to him growing up. Max Domi reflecting on what Mats Sundin has meant to him "He means everything to me, man. He’s just one of the best, if not the best, Maple Leafs of all time, and he earned it all. So, he was my favourite player and the guy I’ve looked up to my entire life for that exact reason." Domi said during an interview. “He was a very close family friend of ours and is like family to me to this day. He was one of my dad’s best friends. So yeah, he’s a huge part of my life and a big reason why I fell in love with the game of hockey and a big reason I was and still am a Leafs fan. And yeah, you’ve got to give him a lot of credit for my development in a lot of ways, and whether it’s on the ice or off the ice, the advice he always gave me, well, the list goes on." Domi later added. "I’m just very, very grateful and thankful for our relationship." Maple Leafs will likely hold on to Domi With all this being said on how close the two have become, it makes it difficult to see the Maple Leafs wanting to ship off Domi. John Chayka does have experience trading the veteran winger, as he did in part of a deal that included acquiring Alex Galchenyuk from the Montreal Canadiens. This would become one of the trades he would regret as Domi produced a career-high 72 points with the Canadiens the very next season. With Mats having a lot of say in the trades the Maple Leafs make, it will be very difficult to see them placing Domi on the block. Domi has enjoyed his tenure with the Toronto Maple Leafs and is in no position to attract the interest of contenders with his recent play.

Mandatory Credit: James Lang-Imagn Images | James Lang-Imagn Images The Toronto Maple Leafs have won the 2026 NHL Draft, getting the honor of picking first overall on June 26th in Buffalo. With the lottery now over, we have begun predicting and analyzing which players each team will select. While we don’t know where teams will be selecting past 16, all of the top-end talent of the draft will likely be taken off the board at that stage of the first round. The top two players heading into the draft are both wingers, Gavin McKenna and Ivar Stenberg; however, will that order hold as defenceman Chase Reid and center Caleb Malhotra become far more intriguing to teams? I will now present to you a top 10 post-lottery mock draft. 1. Toronto Maple Leafs – Gavin McKenna, Penn State University (NCAA) The Maple Leafs have found a solution to replace Mitch Marner’s elite playmaking ability. After spending his first two seasons of junior hockey, McKenna decided to challenge himself by moving to the NCAA Big Ten Conference to suit up for Penn State University. McKenna played exceptionally well, posting 51 points, including 15 goals in 35 games. For a Maple Leafs team heading towards a retool, this seems like the perfect beginning. 2. San Jose Sharks – Ivar Stenberg, Frolunda HC (SHL) The number one-rated international prospect is being taken off the board at second overall. The San Jose Sharks are in a position many did not see coming, as they went into the lottery with the 15th-best odds of landing the first overall pick. No matter who the Sharks take at this position, they will continue to load up their prospect pool, adding another top player. Adding a top winger alongside Macklin Celebrini can become one of the deadliest duos in the NHL. Stenberg impressed many by playing against professional hockey players at the age of 18, tallying 33 points in 43 games. 3. Vancouver Canucks – Caleb Malhotra, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL) The Canucks were hoping to remain the top pick in the NHL Draft, but sitting at number three, there are still a lot of solid options to choose from. The Canucks have a lot of upcoming talent, and I believe they are ready to add another top-end talent to replace Elias Pettersson down the middle of the ice. On the backend, they have Zeev Buium and Tom Willander, while Malhotra brings top-end talent to an already good forward core in Vancouver. Malhotra’s father, Manny, is the AHL’s head coach, which seems to be a match made in heaven. Malhotra, with the Bulldogs this season, has played solidly, scoring 84 points, including 29 goals in 67 games. 4. Chicago Blackhawks – Chase Reid, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL) The Blackhawks, at this stage of the NHL Draft, will likely look to add the best player available. This is likely Chase Reid, an offensive defenceman who is strong in all three areas of the ice. The Blackhawks are lacking a fast-skating, puck-moving defenseman to help them reach the next level, and adding Reid would answer many of their questions. Up front, they remain strong with Connor Bedard, Anton Frondell, Nick Lardis, Frank Nazar, and Oliver Moore paving the way offensively. Being able to select Reid at the fourth pick almost seems like a steal, with how he has been able to develop his game over the past two seasons with the Greyhounds. Reid’s total this season was 48 points in 47 games. 5. New York Rangers – Keaton Verhoeff, University of North Dakota (NCAA) The Rangers are in the midst of a rebuild, lacking both top-end skill and prospects. Looking at their blueline, they are in desperate need of a solid two-way defender who has some upside offensively. Keaton Verhoeff is known for his defensive game and is considered the best shutdown player in this draft. He plays a heavy physical style game to complement what the rest of the blueline presents. Verhoeff decided to take his game to the next level this season, sacrificing points to play against tougher competition in the NCAA rather than in the WHL, where he spent two seasons with the Victoria Royals. 6. Calgary Flames – Tynan Lawrence, Boston University (NCAA) Tynan Lawrence joined the University of Boston after playing 13 games with the Muskegon Lumberjacks in the USHL, where he dominated, putting up 17 points over that span. To help his draft stock and development, he transferred to the University of Boston on January 6th, playing 18 games and scoring 7 points. The Flames are getting a reliable two-way center who can drive the play by himself through the middle of the ice. Lawrence is also known for how hard he works in the dirty areas of the ice, separating himself from his opponents. The Flames are taking a little bit of a gamble with this pick, but he can blossom into a fantastic player for the Flames. 7. Seattle Kraken – Carson Carels, Prince George Cougars (WHL) The Seattle Kraken have been searching for a defenceman whom they can opt to build around. With Carels falling to the seventh overall pick, it gives them the ability to do this. Carels presents a strong two-way game, being effective in all areas of the ice. He plays a rugged, strong game, providing the back-end toughness every team needs to be successful. His hockey IQ also stands above the rest of the draft class, as he can make effective breakout passes while understanding the play, showcasing this at the IIHF World Junior Championship, where he was the youngest player on a stacked Team Canada roster. Carels will look to continue to develop into a strong player with the Kraken over the next couple of seasons. 8. Winnipeg Jets – Nikita Klepov, Saginaw Spirit (OHL) Nikita Klepov dominated the OHL with the Saginaw Spirit this past season, leading the OHL with 97 points in 67 games. The Florida native is an absolute magician with the puck and addresses the Jets’ need for goal scoring. Klepov is committed to Michigan State University for the 2026-27 season, furthering his development against better players in the NCAA Big Ten Conference. His shot is also what separates him in this draft class. He can put the puck in the back of the net from virtually anywhere. The lone downside to his game is his defensive responsibility, which he can improve. It creates an issue that has him falling in this draft. 9. Florida Panthers – Daxon Rudolph, Prince Albert Raiders (WHL) Daxon Rudolph is a big, strong, high-energy defenceman with a strong hockey IQ. Rudolph’s vision on the ice is unlikely for many; he sees the ice very well and can add to the Panthers’ strong defensive core in both the present and the future. Rudolph is not afraid of the dirty areas, winning one-on-one battles in the corners, out front of the net, and virtually anywhere on the ice. His offensive efficiency and possession control are what put him above many others. He is comparable to LA Kings blueliner Drew Doughty. He plays a steady game all over the ice that could help him become one of the best defencemen in the NHL for a very long time. 10. Nashville Predators – Viggo Bjorck, Djurgardens IF (SHL) With a lot of uncertainty around this organization’s management and coaching staff, it is tough to see where the team goes with the 10th overall pick. If I were the general manager, I would select Viggo Bjorck, who is a top-end talent. He has a high hockey IQ and plays a key role in all three areas of the ice. The Swedish forward is already playing against professional talent and hasn’t looked out of place one bit. His skating and edge work are what drive his offensive play. Bjorck also had a strong showing at the 2026 WJC, where he helped Team Sweden win gold. The 2026 NHL Draft is set to be filled with surprises, with lots of trades and shocking moves ahead of us. Check in on June 26th to see where each of these players ends up and who the Toronto Maple Leafs decide to take with the first overall pick.