NHL free agency opens on July 1, and new Toronto Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka appears ready to make significant changes to the roster.
After selecting franchise prospect Gavin McKenna with the No. 1 overall pick at the NHL Draft, Chayka has already begun reshaping the team, with several major roster decisions expected in the coming days.
One former Maple Leafs enforcer now believes Toronto’s next big move should be clearing a $60 million contract.
Maple Leafs Urged to Get a Move On In Moving Morgan Rielly’s Contract
Veteran defenseman Morgan Rielly has emerged as one of the biggest names in the offseason rumor mill. The 32-year-old has four years remaining on the eight-year, $60 million contract he signed with Toronto.
Rielly endured a difficult 2025-26 campaign, finishing with 36 points in 78 games while posting a minus-18 rating in a Toronto blue line ravaged by injuries. His defensive play drew criticism throughout the season, leading to speculation that the Maple Leafs could explore moving his contract to create salary-cap flexibility.
Former Leafs enforcer Jay Rosehill believes that’s exactly what Toronto should consider if it hopes to land veteran goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky. “Considering how many holes the Leafs have at center and right wing, I think they’ll have to get off of Rielly’s contract if they want to add Bobrovsky as well, no?” Rosehill pointed out.
Rosehill’s comments reflect the difficult balancing act facing Chayka as he tries to reshape the roster while staying under the salary cap.
After helping the Florida Panthers win back-to-back Stanley Cups, Bobrovsky endured a difficult season. Injuries plagued the Panthers, who missed the playoffs, and Bobrovsky eventually lost the starting job to Daniil Tarasov after finishing with a career-low .877 save percentage.
Despite a disappointing season, Sergei Bobrovsky is reportedly looking for a long-term deal in free agency. His camp is believed to be seeking a six- or seven-year contract worth around $42 million.
If the Maple Leafs want to pursue him, they’ll likely need to free up cap space first. Trading Morgan Rielly and moving his $7.5 million cap hit would give Toronto much more financial flexibility.
A goaltending tandem of Bobrovsky and Anthony Stolarz would bring plenty of experience and championship pedigree as the Leafs begin building around top prospect Gavin McKenna.
However, the biggest question is the length of the contract. A short-term deal could be a smart gamble for Toronto, but committing six or seven years to a veteran goalie coming off the worst statistical season of his career would be a major risk.
With free agency opening at noon ET on July 1, it won’t take long to see whether the Leafs seriously pursue Bobrovsky or if the reported interest is simply part of contract negotiations.
