The Toronto Maple Leafs were reportedly among the teams pursuing forward Mason Marchment, according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet.
Friedman noted that Toronto had serious interest in bringing Marchment back, but the Dallas Stars ultimately sent him to the Seattle Kraken in a salary cap-related move involving two draft picks. “The Maple Leafs wanted Mason Marchment, and were disappointed not to get him,” Friedman wrote. He also hinted that Toronto might consider trading a defenseman to acquire a forward, especially with Mitch Marner’s future uncertain, adding that Seattle isn’t done making moves yet.
Marchment, who is entering the final season of a four-year, \$18 million contract, is considered a strong power forward due to his blend of size (6-foot-5, 212 pounds), physical presence, and offensive ability. Last season with the Stars, he posted 22 goals and 25 assists in 62 games and contributed 5 points in 18 playoff contests. He previously appeared in four games for Toronto during the 2019–20 season after signing with the team as an undrafted free agent in 2018. He was later traded to Florida for Dennis Malgin.
The Kraken were eager to acquire Marchment, beating out multiple teams for his services. “Mason brings a rare mix of size, skill, and toughness,” said Kraken GM Jason Botterill. “He’s battle-tested in playoff environments, having reached the conference finals three years in a row.”
Marchment’s playoff experience and physical style were big reasons the Leafs targeted him. After another early playoff exit, general manager Brad Treliving is focused on adding proven postseason performers to the roster. “You’ve got to embrace the playoff moment and find a way to succeed,” Treliving said. “It’s not always about overhauling the roster but adding the right pieces.”
Toronto has just two playoff series wins with its current core and is hoping to turn the tide next season. With \$25.7 million in cap space, the Leafs have room to make impactful additions this offseason.
