Matias Maccelli's future with the Toronto Maple Leafs is uncertain, fueling trade speculation as the December 20th roster freeze approaches. Acquired by Toronto in June 2025 from the Utah Mammoth for a conditional third-round pick, Maccelli has struggled to find his footing with the team.
The 25-year-old Finnish winger has recorded four goals and five assists in 22 games this season. Despite his offensive skill and playmaking ability, Maccelli hasn't consistently fit into head coach Craig Berube's plans, often finding himself as a healthy scratch. According to reports, Berube wants to get Maccelli back into a game "soon," but not immediately.
Maccelli's situation has drawn the attention of other teams, most notably the Boston Bruins. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman mentioned on a recent episode of the "32 Thoughts" podcast that the Bruins had expressed interest in Maccelli before he was traded to Toronto. Friedman indicated that the Bruins are still looking for a scoring winger and might still be interested in Maccelli.
The Bruins' interest is noteworthy, considering their need for secondary scoring and their history of making deals with the Maple Leafs. A potential trade to Boston would reunite Maccelli with familiar faces and provide him with a fresh opportunity to showcase his skills. However, Boston may not be the only team interested in acquiring Maccelli. Several other teams, including the Nashville Predators, Seattle Kraken and Los Angeles Kings, could also be potential destinations.
Maccelli's contract situation adds another layer to the trade discussions. He is currently in the final year of a three-year, $10.275 million contract with an average annual value of $3.425 million. At the end of this season, he will become a restricted free agent with arbitration rights. This gives the Maple Leafs some control over his future, but it also means that Maccelli could be seeking a new contract soon.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Maple Leafs face a decision regarding Maccelli's future. They can either try to integrate him into the lineup, trade him for assets, or let him play out his contract and risk losing him for nothing. If they choose to trade him, they will likely be seeking a similar return to what they gave up to acquire him, a conditional third-round pick. Potential trade targets for the Maple Leafs could include players like Mason Marchment from the Kraken or Andrew Peeke from the Bruins.
Ultimately, Maccelli's role in Toronto remains unclear. His talent is evident, but his fit with the team's current system and coaching staff is questionable. With the Bruins and other teams watching closely, the Maple Leafs must decide whether Maccelli is part of their long-term plans or a valuable trade chip to improve their roster.
