While images of tranquil summer days by the water might occupy the minds of many, for Toronto Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving, the off-season remains a period of active strategic planning. The task at hand is significant: sculpting a competitive roster for the 2025-26 season.
This particular summer marks a distinct transition, representing the first true off-season following the fundamental shifts in the “Core Four” era configuration. Initial moves and signings have been made, leading to a roster that, on paper, has drawn a mixed reception. Assessing the current state, it`s challenging to definitively argue that the team, as presently constructed, represents a clear upgrade over the group that secured first place in the Atlantic Division during the 2024-25 campaign.
But, and it`s a significant `but` in the world of NHL off-seasons, the picture is far from complete. Critically, resources remain available. The team holds approximately $5 million in cap space, and there are still several months stretching out before the puck drops in October, let alone the trade deadline frenzy of March. This financial flexibility and available time are key assets for Treliving as he navigates the remainder of the summer.
Let`s take a look at the current roster composition based on the team`s depth chart as it stands:
Current Roster Snapshot
Forwards
- Knies – Matthews – Domi
- Maccelli – Tavares – Nylander
- McMann – Roy – Robertson
- Lorentz – Kämpf – Laughton
- Pezzetta – Järnkrok – Reaves
Defense
- McCabe – Tanev
- Rielly – Carlo
- Benoit – Ekman-Larsson
- Mermis – Myers
Goaltenders
- Stolarz
- Woll
Cap Allocation (Approximate)
- Total forward cap hits: $57.9 million
- Total defence cap hits: $25.7 million
- Total goalie cap hits: $6.2 million
- Cap space remaining: $5 million
The Remaining To-Do List
Analyzing this depth chart reveals the areas where GM Treliving still has work to do. While the top two lines feature prominent names, bolstering the forward group, particularly in a top-six capacity following significant departures (a recurring theme in recent Maple Leafs discourse), appears to be a priority. The current configuration might require further refinement to provide sufficient offensive punch and depth.
On the defensive side, the pairings offer a mix of styles and experience. The presence of both established veterans and players aiming to solidify their roles suggests that depth and potential injury resilience could be areas worth addressing, depending on internal expectations for the newer additions.
In net, the tandem of Stolarz and Woll provides the current structure. As always, goaltending performance is paramount, and the team will rely on this duo to provide stability throughout the demanding season.
With that $5 million in cap space and the leverage of time, Treliving`s off-season efforts will likely focus on leveraging these assets. This could involve pursuing trades to acquire players who fit specific needs, perhaps a top-six forward who complements the existing skill sets, or adding depth and competition on the blue line or even amongst the forward ranks.
The off-season is a puzzle, and while some pieces are in place, the final picture is contingent on the moves yet to be made. The expectation in Toronto, a city perpetually under the hockey microscope, is always aimed squarely at achieving greater success. Meeting that expectation requires strategic precision in utilizing the remaining cap space and negotiating power.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the final shape of the 2025-26 Toronto Maple Leafs roster. Until then, the dock might call, but the work in the general manager`s office continues.