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Jack Roslovic’s past chemistry with Auston Matthews has fueled speculation that he could sign with the Leafs in free agency.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are still looking to round out their forward group after dealing Mitch Marner, and one name now surfacing in free agency is Jack Roslovic.
According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, the Leafs could emerge as a serious landing spot for Roslovic due to his existing chemistry with Auston Matthews. The two played together with the US National Team Development Program and have remained connected ever since.
“It makes sense to me because he has a history with Auston Matthews,” Friedman said on the 32 Thoughts podcast. “They played together at the US National Development Team, so I could see this connection… Matthews obviously knows him.”
The connection could prove key if Toronto decides to make a low-cost bet on a player with speed, versatility, and top-six upside.
Roslovic Brings Skill, But Questions Linger
Roslovic, 27, spent last season with the Carolina Hurricanes, scoring 22 goals and 17 assists across 81 regular-season games. Initially drafted by Winnipeg in the first round of the 2015 NHL Draft, the Columbus native has also suited up for the Blue Jackets, Rangers, and Jets, tallying 102 goals and 158 assists in 526 NHL games.
He adds offensive skill, a right-handed shot, and the ability to play both wing and center — a rare mix that could benefit Toronto’s evolving forward group. But questions remain.
Despite a solid regular season, Roslovic was scratched in six of Carolina’s 15 playoff games, raising red flags about his consistency and defensive reliability. With Craig Berube expected to emphasize structure and responsible play, Roslovic’s fit isn’t seamless.
Auston Matthews Could Be the X-Factor
Toronto is still searching for the right linemate for Auston Matthews, particularly with Marner gone and uncertainty surrounding Nick Robertson’s contract situation. Pairing Roslovic with Matthews could allow the Leafs to unlock his offensive upside without leaning on him in high-leverage defensive matchups.
The former Hurricanes forward has substantial underlying possession numbers and would bring speed to a top six that still includes William Nylander, Matthew Knies, and Max Domi. If the chemistry with Matthews translates, it could be a low-risk, high-reward move.
Cap Space Complicates the Fit
The Leafs currently have just under $5 million in projected cap space, per PuckPedia, and still need to settle Nick Robertson’s arbitration case. Roslovic earned $2.8 million last season and is believed to be seeking a raise, potentially prompting the Toronto Maple Leafs to make another move to create room.
Two possible trade candidates are David Kämpf and Calle Järnkrok, both of whom have already been linked to offseason exits. The recent addition of Nic Roy via sign-and-trade gives Toronto more flexibility. This could allow Berube to roll four skilled lines if Roslovic signs.
Leafs Weighing Value vs. Fit
At this stage, Roslovic is arguably the top remaining free-agent forward, especially after Nikolaj Ehlers signed a long-term deal in Carolina. If Toronto can land him at the right price, the upside is clear. But his playoff inconsistency and defensive profile may give the Leafs pause.
With Matthews’ stamp of approval, though, this is one to watch.
Alvin Garcia Alvin Garcia is a Puerto Rican sports writer for Heavy.com. His work has appeared on FanSided, LWOS, NewsBreak, Athlon Sports, and Yardbarker, with coverage spanning across all leagues. More about Alvin Garcia
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