Why Top Remaining UFA Jack Roslovic Left the Leafs Guessing and Signed With Canadian Rival Instead

Leafs GM Brad Treliving continues to hunt for a top-six forward that would be considered an upgrade over the likes of Max Domi, Bobby McMann and Matias Maccelli.

Throughout the summer, one of Treliving's targets was former Carolina Hurricanes forward Jack Roslovic. The two sides held conversations, and Roslovic was willing to wait for the Leafs to create roster space, but despite the former first-round pick's patience, nothing ultimately materialized.

The Leafs' forward depth was likely a deterrent for Roslovic, and after skating by himself in Columbus while waiting for the right fit, the 28-year-old landed a one-year deal with the Edmonton Oilers late Wednesday night.

The Oilers are currently without Zach Hyman, who is often riding shotgun with Connor McDavid, and is out until November as he recovers from wrist surgery. The timeline forced the Oilers to move Trent Frederick up the lineup, proving their need for a top-six forward.

Oilers management was also likely compelled to make a significant move after McDavid put a tremendous amount of pressure on them when he agreed to a two-year extension on Monday.

For Roslovic, it is an opportunity to bet on himself and cash in next off-season when the salary cap jumps again, after playing along side the Oilers Captain and Leon Draisaitl in the top six -- an opportunity he would have had to compete harder for in Toronto given the amount of capable forwards available to Craig Berube.