Jack Roslovic has made it clear why he chose the Toronto Maple Leafs in free agency. The 29-year-old forward believes Toronto has the right mix for a quick turnaround.
Speaking on TSN’s OverDrive, Roslovic explained that several factors influenced his decision. “A mixture of everything,” Roslovic said when asked why he picked Toronto.
“They've been a team that, you could say, didn't have their best year last year,” Roslovic said. “But it's a team that is new, it's young, it's vibrant, it's ready to win.”
Roslovic also pointed to familiar faces and Toronto’s style as major factors. “A couple of familiar faces around, you know, a really cool, really good style of hockey that's exciting,” he said. “I just wanted to be a part of it.”
That belief comes after a difficult 2025-26 NHL season for Toronto. The Maple Leafs finished last in the Atlantic Division and missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The poor season triggered major changes across the organization. John Chayka took over as general manager, while Jim Hiller became the new head coach.
Toronto also reshaped its roster around Auston Matthews and William Nylander. Sergei Bobrovsky, No. 1 pick Gavin McKenna, Nick Paul, Colton Sissons, Teddy Blueger and Roslovic joined the team.
Roslovic signed a two-year, $8 million contract on July 1. He arrives after producing 21 goals and 36 points in 69 games with the Edmonton Oilers.
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Roslovic's addition gives Toronto another experienced forward who can provide secondary scoring. He also enters the season five games short of 600 NHL appearances.
Roslovic’s connection with Matthews adds another layer to his decision. The two previously played together in the USA Hockey National Team Development Program.
Toronto still has questions to answer after its collapse last season. However, Roslovic sees a young, refreshed team that is ready to compete again.
