NHL Free Agency: Maple Leafs Interested In Michael Pezzetta

Montreal Canadiens forward Michael Pezzetta skates before 2025 game.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly among the teams showing interest in Michael Pezzetta, according to The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun.

The 27-year-old Montreal Canadiens forward is expected to hit free agency on July 1, and his bruising, high-energy style could make him a perfect fit for the identity GM Brad Treliving is trying to instill in Toronto’s bottom-six.

Pezzetta Could Fill Reaves’ Role at a Better Price

Pezzetta, a Toronto native, is coming off a scoreless 25-game season with the Canadiens, but his value lies in his physical play and relentless forecheck. He’s the prototypical fourth-line grinder, a younger, cheaper alternative to Ryan Reaves, who was waived late last season and spent time in the AHL.

With Pezzetta projected to command around $775K on a one-year deal, he presents virtually no financial risk.

Wouldn't surprise me if the Maple Leafs are among the teams who show interest in Michael Pezzetta when the market opens Tuesday
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) June 30, 2025

Pezzetta, with 38 points and 241 penalty minutes over 200 career NHL games, could rotate in and out of the lineup under head coach Craig Berube without hurting the cap or the team’s culture.

A Return Home and a Classic Rivalry Twist

Should the Leafs sign Pezzetta, it would mark a return home for the former sixth-round pick, and a spicy rivalry wrinkle as a former Canadien suits up in blue and white.

Now that all the big name free agents are gone, tomorrow shall be known as the Michael Pezzetta sweepstakes
— The Hockey News (@TheHockeyNews) June 30, 2025