The Toronto Maple Leafs are aiming to strengthen their roster, with a particular focus on adding a winger.
Last season, the Leafs relied on Bobby McMann and Max Domi as their second- and third-line left wingers, highlighting the need for an upgrade at that position. In response, NHL analyst Jeremy Tingly from LeafsNation has suggested that Toronto target Winnipeg Jets veteran winger Nino Niederreiter in a trade.
“With Nik Ehlers now in Carolina, the Jets might look for wing help in return if they decide to move Niederreiter,” Tingly wrote. “Players like Nick Robertson or Bobby McMann could interest them. Niederreiter scored 17 goals last year in what was considered a down season and could bounce back in 2025-26.
“At 6-foot-2, he plays a physical game — he recorded 151 hits last season and had a strong playoff run with Winnipeg — a style that would fit well under coach Craig Berube,” Tingly continued. “With two years left on a $4 million-per-year deal and no trade protection, he’d be a manageable addition. The key question is what Leafs GM Brad Treliving would be willing to offer Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff, especially with Winnipeg still active in free agency and $19 million in cap space to work with.”
Niederreiter would likely slot in as a second-line left winger for the Leafs. His contract — a three-year, $12 million deal with two years remaining — is relatively affordable for Toronto. With 969 career games and 105 playoff appearances under his belt, he’d also bring valuable experience.
Leafs Eyeing Top-Six Upgrade
Toronto continues to look for help in the top six, on either wing. The recent acquisition of Mattias Maccelli from the Utah Mammoth gives them one potential top-line option, but the Leafs remain in search of another impact winger. GM Brad Treliving made it clear that replacing Mitch Marner’s top-six presence is a priority.
“Mitch was a top-six forward, and we haven’t filled that void,” Treliving said on July 1. “That’s where our focus lies.”
With roughly $5 million in available cap space, Treliving said the team is exploring options for how to best use the money.
“We had hoped to spend it earlier in the day, but if the right opportunity isn’t there, we’re happy to maintain flexibility,” he noted.
Toronto has also been linked to various depth forwards as potential low-cost additions.
Maccelli Aiming to Prove Himself
Maccelli, who was acquired in a recent trade, is hoping to earn a top-six role with the Leafs. After a disappointing season in Utah, he believes he’s capable of much more.
“I know I’m better than what I showed last year,” Maccelli said on July 7. “I just need to prove it again. From the start, I told my agent I’d love to play for the Leafs.”
In 55 games last season, Maccelli tallied 8 goals and 10 assists for 18 points.
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