The Toronto Maple Leafs are actively addressing their organizational depth and exploring the free agent market as the offseason progresses. Recent moves include bolstering the American Hockey League (AHL) roster and expressing interest in players who can contribute to the team's secondary scoring.
Appleby Signs to Boost Goaltending Depth
The Maple Leafs have signed veteran AHL goaltender Ken Appleby to a one-year contract. The 29-year-old Ontario native will provide a steady and experienced presence for the Toronto Marlies. Appleby's addition offers insurance and veteran support in the Marlies' crease, especially with Matt Murray's departure and a crowded goaltending roster that includes Dennis Hildeby and Vyacheslav Peksa. Appleby had a strong season with the Charlotte Checkers, posting a 15-8-1 record and a 1.96 goals-against average. Throughout his career, Appleby has played for nine different teams in the AHL and ECHL.
Interest in Jack Roslovic
The Maple Leafs are reportedly interested in signing UFA Jack Roslovic to bolster their bottom-six forwards. According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, Roslovic's history with Auston Matthews from their time with the US National Development Team makes him a potential fit for the Leafs. Roslovic is a versatile player who can play both wing and center, providing valuable depth, especially given the team's past lack of center options. Roslovic is coming off a 39-point season (22 goals and 17 assists) with the Carolina Hurricanes. He could be a valuable addition to the Maple Leafs' middle-six, potentially rotating between the second and third lines. If Roslovic signs with the Leafs, it could be a step towards the "DNA change" promised this offseason. A multi-year deal could be in the works for both sides.
Marlies Add Depth
The Maple Leafs have been actively adding depth to their AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies. On Tuesday, the team signed five new players to AHL contracts: Gunnarwolfe Fontaine, Ben King, Nick Rheaume, Marko Sikic, and Ryan McCleary. These signings follow the additions of Travis Boyd and Villi Lettieri.
Here's a quick overview of the Marlies' new additions:
These signings provide the Marlies with insurance and allow for flexibility when players are called up to the Maple Leafs. The team also re-signed Reese Johnson, who came over in a trade last season. Additionally, Toronto signed Marc Johnstone, who returns to the Marlies after spending two seasons with the team from 2021-2023.
