The Toronto Maple Leafs are entering a new chapter in franchise history after a disappointing 2025-26 season.
The Leafs failed to make the playoffs for the first time in a decade after entering the season expecting to put together a deep postseason run. Ultimately, Toronto finished second-to-last in the Eastern Conference and fired former general manager Brad Treliving.
The Leafs hired John Chayka as their new general manager, and according to the latest reports, everything points toward major roster changes looming on the near horizon.
According to SDPN's Chris Johnston, the message from Toronto’s front office to other teams has been clear as the offseason nears.
John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
“One of the things I’ve been told by other teams is, with the Leafs, the message that’s come out from their front office is that they’re willing to discuss any players on their roster, except Auston Matthews,” Johnston said.
Johnston's report hints at a significant change in how the Leafs will approach their roster outlook compared to previous regimes, where certain core players were considered untouchable.
“They’re open to at least hearing what you have to say on any player but Matthews,” Johnston said. “The next wave, as we get into June, is some of those trade discussions, and looking at key personnel decisions they have.
“I found it kind of interesting that the word around the league is that they’re willing to listen on a lot of players, maybe in the past, the previous administration hasn’t been.”
Johnston, however, warned that most high-profile players within Toronto's roster could still block any trade because of the no-move clauses included in their contracts. That includes winger William Nylander and defenseman Morgan Rielly.
“Now, keep in mind, guys like Morgan Rielly, William Nylander, they have no-movement clauses, so some of those that could potentially be available, it’s not as available as it might seem on the surface,” Johnston said. “It does seem as though, taking this job, John Chayka is considering basically anything but his captain.”
The Maple Leafs finished 28th in the NHL this past season but followed that up by lucking into the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft after winning the draft lottery.
