As the dust begins to settle on the first few waves of the offseason, it’s clear that the Toronto Maple Leafs are far from done shaping their 2025–26 roster. With trade chatter still swirling, arbitration filings in motion, and near-misses in the market making headlines, the team’s front office continues to work behind the scenes on a plan that balances urgency with long-term vision.
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Today’s edition of Maple Leafs News & Rumours covers a trio of stories that offer insight into what’s happening now—and what might be just around the corner for the team.
Item 1: Maple Leafs Reportedly Came Close to Landing JJ Peterka Before Utah Trade
The Maple Leafs might have come closer than anyone realized to landing dynamic winger JJ Peterka earlier this offseason. According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, Toronto was deep in trade discussions with the Buffalo Sabres, who were seeking a right-shot defenseman. The Maple Leafs were reportedly willing to part with Brandon Carlo in a deal for Peterka, trying to capitalize on Buffalo’s blue-line needs. In the end, the Sabres pivoted and sent Peterka west to the Utah Mammoth, receiving Michael Kesselring instead.
Peterka has since signed an extension in Utah, and the move has sparked some frustration among Maple Leafs fans who believe Toronto could have won that deal. While it didn’t come together, the pursuit speaks to general manager Brad Treliving’s aggressive mindset this summer. With Matias Maccelli now in the fold, the team might have found a younger, less expensive solution, but it’s clear Toronto was aiming high as they looked to replace Mitch Marner’s production. Don’t be surprised if another move comes sometime soon.
Item 2: Nicholas Robertson Files for Arbitration Amid Unresolved Trade Request
For the first time in his career, Nicholas Robertson holds some leverage. The 23-year-old forward has officially filed for salary arbitration after scoring a career-best 15 goals in 69 games with the Maple Leafs last season. While Robertson showed promising signs of durability after years of injury setbacks, his role remained inconsistent. He played in just three of Toronto’s 13 playoff games, a clear sign that new head coach Craig Berube hasn’t yet penciled him into a core spot.
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