Toronto Maple Leafs: Key Players Departing This Offseason Besides Mitch Marner, Affecting Team Dynamics.
  • 750 views
  • 2 min read

The Toronto Maple Leafs' 2025 offseason has been largely defined by the departure of Mitch Marner in a sign-and-trade with the Vegas Golden Knights. However, several other players have also departed from the team, marking a significant roster shake-up. While Marner's exit dominated headlines, these other departures, though less significant, are still noteworthy and contribute to the evolving landscape of the team.

One of the more surprising departures is that of Pontus Holmberg. The 26-year-old forward, known for his versatility and two-way play, became an unrestricted free agent after the Maple Leafs did not extend a qualifying offer. Holmberg's ability to draw penalties and his strong defensive game earned him praise from coach Craig Berube, even earning him a promotion to the second line at one point. He also played in all but one of the team's 13 postseason games. Holmberg signed a two-year contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning. His return to Toronto is slated for December 8, 2025, when the Lightning visit the Maple Leafs.

Ryan Reaves was traded to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for defenseman Henry Thrun. Reaves' return to Toronto is scheduled for December 11, 2025, when the Sharks play the Maple Leafs. Thrun, 24, has one season remaining on his two-year contract.

Alex Steeves, who played a combined 14 games for the Maple Leafs, also departed. He signed with the Boston Bruins and will return to Toronto on November 8, 2025, if he makes the Bruins' roster.

Other departures include Alex Steeves, Matt Murray, Ty Voit, Cedric Pare, Nick Abruzzese, and Max Pacioretty. Additionally, key assistant coach Lane Lambert was hired by the Seattle Kraken as their new head coach.

These departures signal a shift in the Maple Leafs' strategy, with General Manager Brad Treliving aiming to build a tougher and more passionate team. The additions of Nicolas Roy, Matias Maccelli, and Dakota Joshua are intended to bring a different dynamic to the roster. Treliving has also re-signed John Tavares, Matthew Knies, and Steven Lorentz.

Several players have been brought in to fill the holes left by these departures. Matias Maccelli was acquired in a trade with the Utah Mammoth. Dakota Joshua was acquired from the Vancouver Canucks. Nicolas Roy arrived from the Vegas Golden Knights as part of the Mitch Marner trade. Michael Pezzetta signed a two-year contract. Other additions include Travis Boyd, Ben King, Ryan McCleary, Benoit-Olivier Groulx, and Vinni Lettieri.

Despite these changes, some observers feel that the Maple Leafs haven't changed enough of their culture this offseason. The team still has Auston Matthews, William Nylander, Matthew Knies, and John Tavares. However, questions remain about the team's depth and whether the new additions can adequately replace Marner's production.

The Maple Leafs may not be done making moves this offseason, as they are reportedly looking to add another top-six forward. Potential trade pieces include Nick Robertson and David Kampf. The team is also linked to free agent forward Jack Roslovic.


Writer - Rohan Reddy
Rohan Reddy is an emerging journalist with a strong commitment to nuanced reporting, propelled by his passion for sports. He possesses a foundational understanding of journalistic principles and is keen to develop his skills in a dynamic media environment. Rohan is eager to explore compelling human interest stories and complex societal issues, aiming to contribute impactful and well-researched content to the field of journalism, always finding inspiration in the competitive spirit of sports.
Advertisement

Latest Post


As the Asia Cup 2025 approaches, cricket analysts and fans are buzzing about the possible composition of the Indian squad. The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, faces some tough decisions balancing current form, workload management, and the n...
  • 255 views
  • 3 min

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce the 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025 today, August 19. All speculations will be put to rest as the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, convenes in Mumbai to finalize the t...
  • 434 views
  • 2 min

The Indiana Fever and their fans are holding their breath, awaiting news on Sophie Cunningham's knee injury sustained during their recent game against the Connecticut Sun on August 17, 2025. The incident occurred in the second quarter when Sun guard ...
  • 254 views
  • 2 min

The selection of India's squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 has stirred debate, particularly regarding Shubman Gill's potential inclusion in the playing XI. Former India opener and ex-chief selector Kris Srikkanth has voiced his concerns, questioni...
  • 480 views
  • 2 min

Advertisement
The Edmonton Oilers have been actively exploring the European market to bolster their forward depth, particularly after signing David Tomasek. While Tomasek is expected to compete for a spot on the NHL roster, reports indicate that the Oilers also co...
  • 165 views
  • 2 min

Leeds United celebrated their return to the Premier League with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Everton at Elland Road, thanks to a late penalty from debutant Lukas Nmecha. The match, decided by a controversial handball decision, saw Leeds dominate fo...
  • 290 views
  • 2 min

Leeds United celebrated their return to the Premier League with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Everton, secured by a late penalty from debutant Lukas Nmecha. The match, played at a packed and vociferous Elland Road, saw Leeds dominate for long stretches...
  • 377 views
  • 2 min

Lamine Yamal is stepping into the spotlight at Barcelona, embracing the pressure that comes with joining a club steeped in history and কিংবদন্তি. The young player, who Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has called "touched by the wand of God," has been ha...
  • 477 views
  • 2 min

Advertisement

About   •   Terms   •   Privacy
© 2025 SportsBuzz360