Leaf still eyeing multiple UFAs as training camp nears

"However, while fans may think the Maple Leafs are done making moves, general manager Brad Treliving is still looking. In a recent interview, agent Darren Ferris said that he and Treliving had recently spoken about a free agent he currently represents. While it's good that the Mitch Marner drama has not affected the two's relationship, the main story is who this potential free agent is and how they would fit with the Leafs."

"There are currently three players that Ferris represents still looking for teams for the 2025-26 season. Those being forwards Matt Nieto and Andreas Athanasiou, and defenseman Matt Grzelcyk. Nieto and Athanasiou seem unlikely, as both would likely be depth forwards. While there is no such thing as too much depth, the Leafs have plenty of internal options that could fill in. It would make no sense to spend cap space on something they already had."

"The most likely player the two were talking about is Grzelcyk. He's arguably the best remaining free agent on the market. He's also coming off the best offense season of his career. He tallied one goal and 39 assists for 40 points with the lowly Pittsburgh Penguins. It was also the first time in his career that Grzelcyk appeared in all 82 games, a rarity in today's NHL. This is also important as Grzelcyk has had questions surrounding his durability throughout his career."

Training camp approaches and fans anticipate lines and depth charts, including how Nicolas Roy replaces Mitch Marner and which young players step up. General manager Brad Treliving remains active in the market after agent Darren Ferris said he recently spoke with Treliving about a free agent he represents. Ferris represents three unsigned players for 2025-26: forwards Matt Nieto and Andreas Athanasiou, and defenseman Matt Grzelcyk. Nieto and Athanasiou appear unlikely fits given their depth-forward profiles and the Leafs' internal options. Grzelcyk is the most probable target after posting one goal and 39 assists for 40 points and skating praise, though durability concerns persist. Grzelcyk would not fulfill an offseason "DNA change" but would add puck-moving defense and experience.

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