Insider: Maple Leafs Seeking to 'Move Money' for Top Free Agent

Toronto Maple Leafs Explore Trade Options to Make Room for Free Agency Moves

The Toronto Maple Leafs are actively seeking ways to restructure their roster, with a focus on creating salary cap space to pursue top free agents. This strategy has led to speculation about potential trades involving players such as Calle Jarnkrok, David Kampf, and Nick Robertson. If the team decides to move any of these players, it could open up financial flexibility for a major signing.

One name that has been frequently mentioned in this context is Jack Roslovic. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman noted that Roslovic is still an attractive option for teams looking to add depth. "I’ve heard there’s still a few teams looking at him. He’s the best available player remaining, and obviously, he hasn’t found anything he 100 percent likes," Friedman said during his 32 Thoughts segment. "But there’s definitely a few teams poking around there. I’ve heard five or six, so he has to get to something he’s comfortable with, and we know with Toronto, they’re trying to move money around."

Roslovic recently completed a one-year, $2.8 million contract with the Carolina Hurricanes but remains unsigned as free agency continues. During his time with the Hurricanes, he recorded 22 goals and 17 assists for 39 points in 81 games last season. Despite some inconsistencies, particularly in defensive play, Roslovic remains a reliable middle-six forward who can contribute offensively and play both center and wing.

A Potential Fit for the Maple Leafs

According to general manager Brad Treliving, the Maple Leafs are in need of another top-six winger. Roslovic fits this description perfectly, offering secondary scoring and versatility. His ability to play multiple positions makes him an appealing addition to the team's lineup.

Maple Leafs insider James Mirtle of The Athletic believes the forward is very interested in joining the team. Mirtle noted that while Roslovic had a strong regular season with the Hurricanes, he struggled later in the year, leading to some games being scratched during the playoffs due to defensive lapses. However, Mirtle also emphasized that the decision now lies with the Maple Leafs.

"One player the Leafs have been connected to the past few days is Jack Roslovic. Another offense-focused winger who can play a little center," Mirtle wrote. "He scored 22 goals for Carolina last year. But also fell out of favor as the season wore on in part due to his defensive lapses and misplays with the puck. Leading to games as a healthy scratch in the playoffs."

Mirtle added that the situation is roughly 50-50, with Roslovic showing interest in the opportunity. He also suggested that the cost of bringing Roslovic aboard would not be significant in terms of salary or contract length.

Trading for Cap Space

While the Maple Leafs have considered buying out players like Jarnkrok and Kampf, those moves did not materialize. Instead, the team has opted to keep them on the roster and explore trade options. However, NHL insider David Pagnotta reported that there has been little interest in these players.

"As the Leafs try to shed salary and create roster space for other moves, Jarnkrok joins Kampf and Robertson on the Summer Trade Watch List," Pagnotta wrote. "He has a $2.1M cap hit and owns a 10-team no-trade list. The market hasn’t been vibrant, to this point, but the Leafs will continue to dangle him."

Jarnkrok is currently in the final year of his four-year, $8.4 million deal. Last season, he recorded just 1 goal and 6 assists for 7 points in 19 games. Despite his limited production, the Maple Leafs may still look to move him if it helps clear cap space for other signings.

Conclusion

As the free agency period continues, the Maple Leafs remain focused on improving their roster through strategic trades and signings. With Roslovic as a potential target, the team has the opportunity to add depth and scoring without breaking the bank. However, the success of these moves will depend on how effectively the Maple Leafs can manage their salary cap and find the right fit for their long-term goals.