Leafs Exploring Top-Six Options as Maccelli, Domi Remain in Play
The Toronto Maple Leafs remain active in their search for a top-six forward as the league-wide trade market continues to tighten. According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, Toronto is one of several teams exploring upgrades up front — with both internal and external options in play.
The note, included in Pagnotta’s latest column for The Fourth Period, underscores both the competitive nature of the market and the flexibility Toronto appears willing to explore as it looks to improve its forward group.
Maccelli’s Role in the Equation
Maccelli’s availability stands out given his recent usage. The 25-year-old winger has been scratched seven straight games and has struggled to secure a consistent role this season, recording four goals and five assists in 22 appearances.
Once viewed as a potential skill addition capable of helping in a top-six role, Maccelli now appears to be part of Toronto’s internal trade calculus as the organization weighs different roster constructions.
The Domi Factor
Max Domi’s name continuing to circulate is not accidental — nor is it purely contractual housekeeping. By most measures, Domi has struggled this season, and his on-ice impact has not matched his role or usage.
Signed through the 2027–28 season at a $3.75 million cap hit, Domi’s contract is increasingly viewed as “under water.” That perception, combined with uneven production, has made him part of Toronto’s broader roster calculus as it explores potential upgrades.
In that context, Domi’s name “floating out there,” as David Pagnotta reported, reflects market reality more than intent: Toronto is listening, evaluating, and weighing how best to improve without compounding long-term risk.
External Target: Mason Marchment
Pagnotta also identifies Seattle Kraken winger Mason Marchment as a potential target to monitor. Leafs GM Brad Treliving previously pursued Marchment before he was dealt to Seattle, and the 30-year-old pending UFA fits the heavier, playoff-style profile Toronto has sought in the past.
With Seattle hovering around the playoff bubble, Marchment’s status could become clearer as the season progresses.
Market Reality
As Pagnotta notes, Toronto is far from alone in its search. With multiple teams hunting for similar upgrades, prices remain high and patience will be required. For the Leafs, that likely means balancing internal assets like Maccelli and Domi against the cost of adding from the outside.