While the Toronto Maple Leafs continue their search for a top-six forward ahead of the 2025–26 NHL season, newly acquired center Nicolas Roy could help fill the gap in the meantime.
Speaking with Nick Alberga and Jay Rosehill on Leafs Morning Take, Roy shared that he has already spoken with head coach Craig Berube about expectations for his role. During his time with the Vegas Golden Knights, Roy often stepped into a top-six spot when the team dealt with injuries or needed a replacement.
“I definitely see myself as someone who can play in the top six if needed, and in different roles,” Roy said. “I can handle various situations—power play, penalty kill, big faceoffs. I enjoy that part of the game.”
Toronto acquired Roy in a sign-and-trade deal that sent star forward Mitch Marner to Vegas. Marner agreed to an eight-year, $96 million contract with the Golden Knights. His departure leaves a huge hole in the Leafs’ top six—last season, he led the team in points with 27 goals and 75 assists for a total of 102 points.
So far, no free agent has emerged as a clear replacement, making a trade seem like the most likely path forward. Still, it’s been a quiet offseason despite Toronto having some salary cap flexibility.
For now, the Leafs may try to replace Marner’s production by committee. Along with Roy, they’ve added forwards Matias Maccelli and Dakota Joshua, and re-signed Nick Robertson to a one-year, $1.825 million deal.
Roy recorded 15 goals and 16 assists in 71 games last season. Over his career, he has 10 goals and 22 assists in 79 playoff games and was part of Vegas’s 2023 Stanley Cup win.
