The Toronto Maple Leafs have secured veteran defenceman Troy Stecher with a two-year contract extension worth an average annual value of $1.35 million US, just days before he was set to become an unrestricted free agent. Meanwhile, forward Matias Maccelli will not receive a qualifying offer from the club, as reported by TSN's Chris Johnston, making him an unrestricted free agent when the market opens.
Stecher's journey and impact
Stecher, 32, was claimed off waivers from the Edmonton Oilers last November, marking his seventh NHL team in his 10th season. Despite his smaller frame at 5-foot-10 and 184 pounds, he quickly became a reliable presence on the Leafs' blue line, providing energy and smart puck movement. In March, Stecher expressed his love for playing in Toronto, citing the fan support, city atmosphere, teammates, and staff. "It's a privilege to put on the crest every single night and to call yourself a Leaf," he said.
Defensive depth and future moves
With Stecher's signing, the Leafs now have seven defencemen under contract for the 2026-27 season: Darren Raddysh, Morgan Rielly, Jake McCabe, Chris Tanev, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Philippe Myers, and Stecher. Rielly's future remains uncertain as trade speculation continues, and the team must also address the contract of restricted free agent Emil Andrae, acquired from the Philadelphia Flyers in a trade involving goalie Joseph Woll and defenceman Simon Benoit. Andrae is expected to receive a qualifying offer by Monday's 5 p.m. deadline.
Maccelli's departure
Maccelli, who recorded 39 points (14 goals, 25 assists) in 71 games last season after being acquired from Utah, failed to establish a consistent role in the Leafs' lineup. His departure opens up a roster spot as general manager John Chayka looks to add depth in free agency, particularly on defence. Chayka recently traded Brandon Carlo to the St. Louis Blues for two 2026 third-round picks, further reshaping the blue line.
The Leafs' offseason moves continue to evolve as they prepare for the 2026-27 campaign.
