Free agency barely opened before the Toronto Maple Leafs became one of the league’s busiest teams, with John Chayka making move after move to reshape the roster. Instead of chasing just one headline signing, Toronto attacked several areas at once, bringing in Sergei Bobrovsky, Jack Roslovic, and a wave of experienced depth pieces.
The activity showed a front office determined to build a more complete lineup rather than relying on another top-heavy roster. By the end of Day 1, Toronto had added veterans at nearly every key position, setting up one of the NHL’s busiest opening days.
Maple Leafs’ Free Agency Moves In The Spotlight
Sergei Bobrovsky, 37 | 3 years x $7 million AAV
Toronto made its biggest splash by signing Sergei Bobrovsky to a 3-year, $21 million contract. The two-time Stanley Cup champion and two-time Vezina Trophy winner steps in as the team’s No. 1 goaltender, bringing championship experience and proven playoff success to stabilize the crease.
Jack Roslovic, 28 | 2 years x $4 million AAV
Jack Roslovic signed a 2-year, $8 million contract after producing a 21-goal season with the Edmonton Oilers. His speed, offensive instincts, and ability to play both center and wing give Toronto another versatile option in its middle six.
Colton Sissons, 32 | 2 years x $4.25 million AAV
Colton Sissons arrives on a 2-year, $8.5 million contract to strengthen Toronto’s defensive game, despite being a forward. His faceoff ability, penalty killing, and matchup experience make him the favorite to anchor the third line while taking on difficult defensive assignments, though the contract may be a little rich for a depth piece.
Teddy Blueger, 31 | 2 years x $2.5 million AAV
Teddy Blueger joined the Maple Leafs on a 2-year, $5 million deal after leaving Vancouver. He adds dependable defensive play and should slot into the fourth-line center role while serving as a penalty killer.
Brandon Duhaime, 29 | 3 years x $866,000 AAV
Toronto added Brandon Duhaime on an affordable 3-year contract to inject more speed and physicality into its bottom six. His aggressive forechecking style and penalty-killing ability give the coaching staff another dependable depth winger.
Zack MacEwen, 29 | 2 years x $875,000 AAV
Zack MacEwen signed a 2-year deal to bring toughness and energy to the lineup. He projects as a fourth-line winger who can provide a physical edge and protect Toronto’s skilled forwards when needed.
Nick Paul, 31 | Acquired Via Trade | 3 years remaining ($3.15 million)
The Maple Leafs acquired Nick Paul from the Tampa Bay Lightning by sending Dennis Hildeby along with a 3rd- and 4th-round draft pick. His size, versatility, and net-front presence allow him to play either center or wing while adding another dependable two-way option.
Toronto Also Cleared Space With Another Trade
Chayka also moved winger Nick Robertson to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for a 2028 fourth-round pick, ending a relationship that had become increasingly uncertain.
Combined with Toronto’s aggressive free-agent signings, the trade helped balance the roster as the team approached the cap ceiling for the 2026-27 season.
