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Another year, another heartbreak for the Toronto Maple Leafs. The team’s early exit from the 2024-25 NHL playoffs has sparked intense speculation—and one thing is clear: change is coming.
After falling to the Florida Panthers in a hard-fought seven-game second-round series, fans are left with familiar feelings of frustration. Although slightly better than last season’s first-round loss, it’s still a far cry from a Stanley Cup. And after 58 long years, patience is wearing thin.
Shanahan’s Future in Doubt
Brendan Shanahan, Maple Leafs President and Alternate Governor, may be the first domino to fall. His contract ends on June 30, and there’s no public word of a renewal. Could this mark the end of his 11-year tenure?
New MLSE President and CEO Keith Pelley took charge on April 2. He sat beside Shanahan and GM Brad Treliving during the season’s wrap-up, emphasizing fans’ expectations: a championship.
Shanahan was brought in back in 2014 with hopes of a long, successful tenure. Now, over a decade later, the team has advanced past the second round just twice.
Treliving Takes the Wheel
While Shanahan’s role in decision-making has diminished, GM Brad Treliving holds the reins. The direction Toronto takes this off-season largely rests on his shoulders.
Treliving must address glaring gaps in the team’s roster. According to PuckPedia, the Leafs enter the 2025–26 season with nearly $27 million in salary cap space. Additional space could be freed by moving or buying out forwards David Kampf and Calle Jarnkrok.
Big Contracts and Bigger Questions
Top of the priority list: re-signing restricted free agents. Matthew Knies is expected to command an AAV north of $7 million. RFAs Pontus Holmberg and Nick Robertson are also due for new deals. Veterans Max Pacioretty and Steven Lorentz, who contributed solid performances, could hit unrestricted free agency on July 1.
But the biggest decisions involve Mitch Marner and John Tavares—both pending unrestricted free agents.
Will Marner Stay or Go?
Mitch Marner had a career-best season, tallying 102 points. He’s in line for a massive payday, likely $13 million or more per season.
When asked about his future, Marner offered no clarity: “I don’t have any thoughts right now,” he said post-elimination. With teams like Chicago, Los Angeles, Utah, and Calgary reportedly interested, Toronto may struggle to retain him.
Still, the Leafs haven’t shut the door. But if he leaves, replacing his production will be a tall order.
Tavares Open to Staying—At a Price
Captain John Tavares has shown a desire to remain with the Leafs. A shorter deal—two to three years—at half his current $11 million AAV could keep him in blue and white.
Whether the Leafs want to invest in a veteran or pivot toward younger, more physical players remains to be seen.
Toronto Needs Power and Grit
Even with Marner, the Leafs lack a true top-six power forward. Knies could grow into that role, but he’s not there yet.
Players like Sam Bennett are the type Toronto desperately needs—physical, gritty, and effective in tough areas. But prying him from Florida might be impossible.
Other potential trade targets include Chris Kreider from the Rangers, Lawson Crouse from Utah, Brayden Schenn from St. Louis, and Mason Marchment from Dallas. None are guaranteed solutions, but Toronto must explore all options.
A New Era on the Horizon
Fans and executives alike know the status quo isn’t enough. While the offseason is just beginning, a new-look Maple Leafs roster is inevitable. Whether it’s a shift in the front office, major roster changes, or both—Toronto’s wind of change is about to blow stronger than ever.
