Maple Leafs Rumors: Forward Likely Finished in Toronto

Michael Bunting had quite the year in Toronto. The Maple Leafs forward was played on all four lines, drew a ton of penalties, and unfortunately crossed the line during the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, leading to a suspension. Bunting follows up his wild season by hitting free agency as an unrestricted free agent and by the sounds of it, he'll be looking elsewhere for his next contract.

Michael Bunting says he had no extension talks with Leafs this season and is taking time to be with his friends before turning focus to free agency: “It’s been special every day, and I haven’t taken it for granted.”
— luke fox (@lukefoxjukebox) May 15, 2023

Bunting recorded 49 points in 82 games this season to go along with 103 minutes in penalties. His performance dipped in the postseason as the pesky forward finished with only two points in seven playoff games.

Bunting is going to draw a ton of attention on the open market and he's likely going to price himself off the Leafs. Depending on how much he loves playing for his home city is going to determine how much of a hometown discount he'd be willing to accept. He made just $950,000 last season.

With Auston Matthews and William Nylander's extensions front of mind, to go along with over 10 free agents coming off the books, there's lots going on in Toronto where Bunting may get lost in the shuffle.

Michael Bunting on his chances of returning with the Maple Leafs. The 27-year-old is set to become a free agent this summer. pic.twitter.com/vmiV2fryAj
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) May 15, 2023