The upcoming offseason presents significant roster considerations for both the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Chicago Blackhawks. While the Blackhawks appear to have a more defined core group with several players locked in for next season, the Maple Leafs are facing a period of potential change and difficult decisions regarding their roster composition.
Chicago Blackhawks: Roster Projections
Analyzing the Chicago Blackhawks’ roster suggests a clear vision for the team’s future. Several key players are projected to return, indicating a commitment to building around a core group. This includes young stars like Connor Bedard and a mix of established veterans and emerging talent. Players like Tyler Bertuzzi, Ryan Donato, Anton Frondell, Ryan Greene, Wyatt Kaiser, Spencer Knight, Nick Lardis, Artyom Levshunov, Oliver Moore, Frank Nazar, Sam Rinzel, Teuvo Teravainen, and Alex Vlasic are considered sure bets to be back. There’s also a group for whom a return is likely, such as Louis Crevier, Ethan Del Mastro, Kevin Korchinski, Landon Slaggert, and Arvid Soderblom. A notable segment of the roster falls into a “50-50 Club,” including Andre Burakovsky, Andrew Mangiapane, and Ilya Mikheyev, whose futures are less certain but still hold potential for continuation. On the other hand, Matt Grzelcyk and Sam Lafferty are seen as likely to move on from the team.
Toronto Maple Leafs: Potential Departures
The Toronto Maple Leafs, in contrast, are facing a more fluid situation with several players whose departures are being considered. Max Domi, with a 12-team no-trade clause and a $3.75 million AAV for two more seasons, might be an attractive, cost-effective acquisition for a team seeking versatility, even if a robust trade market isn’t guaranteed. Calle Jarnkrok, a pending free agent, did not provide significant value last season and could be on his way out. Matias Maccelli is expected to return, though his $4.1 million qualifying offer might be a point of negotiation, especially if Craig Berube remains behind the bench, as his presence could impact Maccelli’s role. Jacob Quillan, a 24-year-old pending restricted free agent, is unlikely to be qualified by the team, although his contract would not represent a significant cap hit. Another pending RFA, Nick Robertson, is also expected to not return to the Leafs next season. On the defensive side, defenseman Brandon Carlo, with a year left on his $3.49 million contract, is seen as an easily movable asset due to his right-handed shot and favorable salary. Oliver Ekman-Larsson, despite putting up 39 points, has two years remaining at $3.5 million and could fetch some assets, especially given that the team considered trading him at the deadline. Morgan Rielly, with four years left on a $7.5 million contract and a full no-movement clause, is likely to stay unless new management actively seeks to move him. Finally, Troy Stecher, a pending free agent, is expected to depart given that other defensemen are under contract and the Leafs are likely to make changes to their blueline.
In summary, the Blackhawks appear to be solidifying their core with a clearer picture of who will be returning, while the Maple Leafs are poised for more significant roster turnover and difficult decisions as they aim to reshape their team for the future.