Not every move John Chayka makes is going to create massive headlines.
Perron isn’t going to cost very much to land, and it’s very likely going to be a one-year contract. The 38-year-old winger spent last season split between the Ottawa Senators and Detroit Red Wings, appearing in 65 games, scoring 13 goals and 28 points. Perron’s not the offensive wizard he once was, but he’s very capable to play a third-line right-wing role, which is something the Leafs desperately need heading into next season.
Chayka has a huge gap among his bottom six, down the middle of the ice, and at third-line right wing. Toronto’s GM should be looking at Perron as someone who is affordable, experienced, a Stanley Cup champion, is self-aware to know his role, and play it to the best of his abilities every night. Perron’s work ethic is one of his best strengths, and he’s a pest on the ice, who also has serious offensive upside. Adding Perron makes Toronto’s bottom six tougher, and more annoying to play against, a trait they need more of heading into next season.
Free-agent market is very limited this summer
Perron fits the bill perfectly. He’s coming off a two-year $4 million AAV contract he signed with the Senators back in July, 2024, and heading into this offseason, it’s likely his next deal is cut in half on both AAV and length. One year, $2 million, and add a modified no-trade clause to give Perron some say if things don’t go as planned. Done deal? Perron’s appeared in 110 Stanley Cup Playoff games, and has his name on the Cup, he deserves to have some protection on his contract, even if he is pushing 40 years old.
Despite his age, Perron hasn’t lost a step per se, but that doesn’t mean he blazes around the ice. Perron could be a great replacement for Calle Jarnkrok, who isn’t expected back with the Leafs, and the free-agent winger could be one of the more under-the-radar signings, that helps contribute to a few different elements of the team.
Signing Perron wouldn’t be Chayka’s flashiest move this summer, but it’s one that could have a solid impact on the Maple Leafs’ 2026-27 roster. Perron has played the last four seasons in the Atlantic Division, he’s entering the final stages of his NHL career, and he’ll want to join a team with a shot at winning the Stanley Cup.
Draft Day Coverage Starts Here
From live pre and post Draft Day coverage with The Sheet and Pierre McGuire, to custom player profiles, first round pick reactions from The Leafs Nation, and Barn Burner’s live hangout, we’re covering every angle of the biggest night for hockey’s next generation.
Follow along for all the Draft features, analysis, and reactions on YouTube and socials.