How the Leafs RFAs Should Be Handled

Deciding what to do with the four RFAs on the Toronto Maple Leafs roster is one of those low-drama but high-impact chores a team needs to handle cleanly. Logically, the Maple Leafs should want choices later, not salary cap knots that strangle their flexibility.

So let’s walk through a calm, practical plan.

Logic Suggests the Maple Leafs Wouldn’t Qualify Maccelli

First, don’t qualify Mattias Maccelli. Maybe that’s harsh, but look at the mechanics. His qualifying offer would likely be high enough to make him an awkward asset to trade, and he occupies a roster slot that’s more valuable as a change-maker than as a locked-in piece.

Maccelli has improved his play throughout the season and, to my eyes, played well. The Maple Leafs need movable parts more than decorative continuity; freeing up that spot opens options at the deadline and in the summer.

It’s Probably Wise to Qualify Robertson, Quillan & Villeneuve

Nick Robertson, Jacob Quillan, and William Villeneuve should likely be qualified, but smartly. The best plan would be to give each a two-year deal at the qualifying number. There are reasons to treat them differently, but two years does two things nicely.

It keeps Robertson tradeable (critical if you want to flip him for a more immediate need), and it gives Quillan and Villeneuve some runway to keep developing in the AHL without getting snatched on waivers. In short, you preserve upside without painting yourself into a corner.

What to Do with Stecher and Järnkrok?

Now, a brief aside to the UFAs. What about Troy Stecher and Calle Järnkrok? Stecher’s a coin flip. If you can’t find a cheap three-year “buryable” deal that keeps him available for the Marlies and as an emergency call-up, let him walk and use the cap space for targeted upgrades. If you can sign him to something like a $1.15M x3 with good burying terms, he’s useful depth and a safe veteran presence.

Järnkrok will likely finish his hockey career somewhere else. He’s been a solid veteran, and I wish him well wherever he lands.

The Real Maple Leafs Work Begins After the Free Agents

Once the RFAs and UFAs are tidied up, the real work begins from a clearer position of strength. With Järnkrok gone, and if you free Maccelli’s slot, the Leafs have a glaring roster construction note — they’re short on right-shooting forwards. William Nylander is one of the few right-shot forwards, which highlights the need for more. That’s a concrete, targeted need you can address via trade or low-risk free-agent signings.

So, the playbook: don’t overcommit to one-year bandages; preserve tradeability; give young guys development time; be surgical about vet depth; and prioritize a right-shot winger. It’s not glamorous, but it’s practical. The Leafs need flexibility more than romance right now — and handling these RFAs the way I’ve sketched keeps options open and the roster honest.

[Big thanks to gcmgome for the thoughtful ideas that helped shape and inform this post. Always appreciate readers who take the time to share their perspective and add to the conversation—it genuinely makes the work better.]

Related: Offseason Trade Pitch Links William Nylander to the Seattle Kraken