Maple Leafs Could Go Big Game Hunting Next Summer and Swipe Superstar Winger in Winnipeg
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton - Imagn Images
The Leafs should be aggressive next summer, and if they can't sign Connor McDavid, they could easily pivot to a different star who is expected to hit the market.
The summer of 2026 is currently being headlined by free agents like Connor McDavid and Kirill Kaprizov, but as we witnessed this year, most of the elite options re-sign with their respective clubs.
Despite that notion, there might be one player in particular that could be available for the Toronto Maple Leafs in Kyle Connor.
The goal scoring winger for the Winnipeg Jets is due for a new contract ahead of July 1st but according to recent reports, there doesn't seem to be much traction between both sides.
Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli mentions that Connor's camp isn't in a rush to get anything done right now and is more likely going to evaluate his options. This is seemingly becoming a trend with the cap rising and superstars looking to cash in.
The prominent NHL insider does mention that you shouldn't count out the Jets but if he does have another fantastic season and if the team can't take that next step in the post-season, he could test the waters in free agency.
With the salary cap expected to jump to $104 million for the 2026-27 season, the Leafs are currently projected to have $24.85 million in cap space. Key players like Anthony Stolarz, Bobby McMann, and Scott Laughton have expiring contracts that will interest the Leafs when it comes to extensions, but it should still leave them with enough leftover for Connor.
The 28-year-old was drafted by the Jets in 2015 and has accumulated 284 goals and 582 points in 9 seasons with 4 straight 30-goal campaigns and counting. He's reached the 40-goal mark twice, including this past season when he tallied 41 goals and 97 points.
Connor is just one year older than Auston Matthews so it shouldn't come as a surprise that the two American-born stars have a mutual admiration for one another. The Leafs' captain has been high on Connor in the past and the idea of having them on the same line is a tantalizing thought.
A lot has to go Toronto's way from now until July 1st, but if Connor remains hesitant on signing long-term in Winnipeg, the Leafs will be chomping at the bit and ready to be aggressive if given the opportunity to sign him.
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