Maple Leafs Rumors: One Player More Likely For Toronto Than Sam Bennett Or Nikolaj Ehlers

Wednesday, June 18, 2025
Toronto Maple Leafs jersey.

According to The Athletic’s James Mirtle, the Toronto Maple Leafs are far more likely to land veteran forward Brad Marchand than either Sam Bennett or Nikolaj Ehlers this offseason. 

In a recent mailbag column, Mirtle outlined why Marchand is a more plausible target, and why the Leafs may ultimately steer away from the other two names.

Bennett and Ehlers Unlikely Fits for Toronto

Mirtle believes Sam Bennett will either re-sign with the Florida Panthers or cash in with a big contract from a team like the Utah Mammoth, not Toronto. As for Nikolaj Ehlers, the fit just isn’t there. While Ehlers has speed and skill, Mirtle points out his lack of physicality, high price tag (possibly $9 million), and poor playoff performances make him a questionable replacement for Mitch Marner.

Leafs Could Pursue Marchand—If the Price Is Right

Brad Marchand, despite being 37, could be a serious option for the Leafs if they’re willing to pay. Mirtle says it might take a three-year deal at around $8 million per season to sign him, but believes Marchand would have interest in joining Toronto. 

It would be a bold move and a potential way to change the team’s “DNA,” which GM Brad Treliving has openly talked about shifting.

Meanwhile, despite rumors, Mirtle doesn’t believe Morgan Rielly is going anywhere. He has a no-movement clause, three years left at $7.5 million per season, and there's been no indication Toronto would ask him to waive. 

While the Leafs need better puck movement from their defense, trading Rielly, arguably their best puck-mover, would only deepen the problem.

Photo Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

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