Utah Hockey Club left wing Matias Maccelli (63) passes the puck during an NHL game against the San Jose Sharks at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City on Friday, Jan. 10, 2025. Utah won 2-1
The Toronto Maple Leafs are banking on a bounce-back season from Finnish winger Matias Maccelli. In a calculated move on Monday, general manager Brad Treliving traded for the 24-year-old forward from the Utah Mammoth, sending a conditional 2027 third-round pick in return. If all goes well, that pick could turn into a second-rounder in 2029 — but only if the Leafs make the playoffs and Maccelli scores at least 51 points in the 2025-26 season.
A Low-Risk, High-Reward Gamble
This trade is the very definition of “buy low, hope high.” Maccelli is coming off a disappointing season with just 18 points in third-line minutes. But his potential, proven track record, and low acquisition cost make him an appealing bet. He carries a $3.425 million cap hit and is due $4.25 million in salary for the upcoming season — a modest price if he rebounds.
Treliving is clearly betting on a resurgence. If Maccelli fails to perform, a third-round pick won’t haunt Toronto. If he delivers, a future second-round pick is a small price to pay.
Betting on a Return to Form
The Leafs believe Maccelli can return to his 2023-24 form, where he notched 17 goals and 57 points. That season showcased his ability to contribute offensively when given the right opportunities. Playing alongside skilled forwards like John Tavares and William Nylander could help him regain confidence and consistency.
Treliving’s need for offensive replacements became urgent after Mitch Marner’s departure. Rather than fill that void with a single star, the Leafs are looking to replace Marner’s production by committee — and Maccelli could be a key piece in that puzzle.
The Right Fit for Toronto’s Needs
Maccelli brings speed, vision, and strong even-strength scoring. Of his 37 career goals, 34 have come at even strength — something Toronto desperately needs. The Leafs’ bottom-six production went cold in the playoffs, and Maccelli’s ability to produce 5-on-5 could help fix that problem.
He may not be a penalty-killer, but he’s capable on the power play and can drive play in the offensive zone. The motivation is also there. Entering the final year of his contract, Maccelli becomes a restricted free agent with arbitration rights in 2026.
This gives him every reason to elevate his game.
A Proven Performer with Untapped Upside
Despite last season’s underwhelming stats, Maccelli has shown high-level ability. He was named to the NHL’s 2022-23 All-Rookie Team after putting up 49 points in 64 games for the Arizona Coyotes. He led all rookies in assists that year. Earlier in his career, he was named Liiga’s Rookie of the Year in Finland after topping all rookies in goals, assists, and points.
At five-foot-eleven and 185 pounds, he may not overpower defenders, but his puck skills, playmaking, and hockey IQ make him a strong second-line candidate.
Timing Works in Toronto’s Favor
The Leafs are still negotiating with several pending free agents, including Max Pacioretty, Steven Lorentz, Nick Robertson, and Pontus Holmberg. Maccelli provides needed insurance and may even end up outperforming some of those names if given the right role. As of Monday, Treliving was also trying to re-sign Lorentz.
Meanwhile, Utah is freeing up cap space to make bigger moves, possibly eyeing Brad Marchand if he hits free agency. That made Maccelli expendable despite his talent.
Final Thoughts: A Smart Addition with High Upside
Matias Maccelli may not be a marquee name, but the Maple Leafs see him as a smart value play. If he performs, Toronto gains a skilled winger without giving up much in return. If not, the risk is minimal.
As Utah GM Bill Armstrong put it, “He is a great person, consummate professional, and we wish him all the best.”
Toronto is hoping that “all the best” is still ahead — in a blue and white jersey.
