Report: Maple Leafs Trying To Move Dakota Joshua

The Toronto Maple Leafs have a roster crunch issue coming up with Dakota Joshua finishing up his conditioning stint, and from the sounds of it, GM John Chayka is currently making some interesting trade offers involving Joshua.

The 30-year-old third-line forward is owed $3.25 million this season and next and owns a 12-team no-trade clause. He was someone former GM Brad Treliving targetted heavily, but unfortunately for Joshua, Chayka doesn't seem to be a huge fan of how he fits into the Maple Leafs' system.

David Pagnotta: Re Dakota Joshua/Maple Leafs: There's not a lot of space for him; he's a player that I believe has been out there; they need to free up some room now and next season; I've been curious...if they do find another suitor for him - Off The Roster (10/27)

The Maple Leafs are trying hard to upgrade their blueline and could use Joshua, and his cap hit to help balance out the finances of a trade. When he's on, Joshua is a great checking winger, who can fill in down the middle of the ice when needed. He's battled some minor injuries throughout the past two seasons, and is known to be one of the best teammates you can ask for. 

Keep an eye on the Maple Leafs, they're up to something big, and it sounds like Chayka is working hard to acquire a top-pair defencemen. Joshua could be a throw in for a potential blockbuster coming from Toronto's GM.

Dakota Joshua is still waiting for the airlines to get his gear to Seattle. Assuming he gets it, he is available to play tonight. Tanev has a chance to play against #Canucks Saturday. Bobrovsky starts tonight. #TML @TSNHockey

— Farhan Lalji (@FarhanLaljiTSN) October 28, 2026