Maple Leafs ‘Offer the Moon’ for $25.5M Star Defenseman Who Has Gladly Accepted to Join Them

Toronto, ON – The Toronto Maple Leafs have finally landed their man. After months of persistence and a blockbuster offer, the Leafs have acquired veteran defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen from the Philadelphia Flyers — a move that signals their intent to solidify the blue line and make a deep playoff run next season.

NHL insider Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun previously reported that Toronto made an aggressive push for Ristolainen at the trade deadline in March, only to be turned down by the Flyers. A league source told Garrioch, “The Leafs offered the moon and couldn’t get him out of there.” But with the offseason in full swing, Toronto doubled down on its pursuit — and this time, they succeeded.

Ristolainen, who has two years remaining on his $25.5 million contract (carrying a $5.1 million AAV), has reportedly welcomed the move to Toronto with open arms. The 6’4”, 221-pound right-shot defenseman brings a mix of physicality, experience, and offensive upside to a Maple Leafs blue line that has undergone a transformation under GM Brad Treliving.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to play in a hockey market like Toronto,” Ristolainen said in a statement. “They’ve shown tremendous belief in me, and I’m looking forward to helping this team in any way I can.”

Ristolainen tallied 4 goals and 15 assists for 19 points in 63 games last season with the Flyers, while logging top-four minutes and playing a gritty, shutdown role. His addition complements the Leafs’ deadline acquisition of Brandon Carlo, another big-bodied right-handed defender who was brought in to bring stability and toughness.

Toronto reportedly gave up a package similar to the one used to land Carlo — a first-round pick and a top prospect — though the full trade details have yet to be confirmed. While the Leafs paid a premium, Treliving was adamant throughout the year that the defense needed reinforcements.

“I don’t think you can ever have too many defensemen,” Treliving said before the deadline. “It’s always about what makes sense — the cost, the contract, and what’s going out the door. But if we can improve, we’re going to look at it.”

At the deadline, Toronto pivoted to acquire Carlo after being denied on Ristolainen. Carlo played 20 regular-season games with Toronto, registering 3 assists, and though he went scoreless in the playoffs, his defensive presence was crucial. Now with Ristolainen on board, the Leafs’ top four could feature an imposing mix of skill and size.

This move underscores Treliving’s commitment to addressing the team’s defensive shortcomings. With Ristolainen embracing his new home in Toronto, the Maple Leafs have added another important piece in their quest to end a decades-long Stanley Cup drought.