Brad Treliving, general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs, has suggested possible changes to the team’s core as part of an effort to break through a longtime playoff barrier. These remarks came shortly after the Maple Leafs were eliminated by the Florida Panthers, continuing a pattern of second-round playoff exits that has persisted for more than two decades. Treliving hinted at altering the team’s “DNA,” signaling a potential shift in personnel or playing style to achieve better postseason success.
NHL analyst Mike Johnson proposed that Treliving’s references to changing the team’s DNA were likely aimed at two key players, John Tavares and Mitch Marner, both nearing free agency and viewed as central figures in the Leafs’ current lineup.
Analysis: Why Tavares and Marner might be central to the Leafs’ future changes
According to Mike Johnson, changing a team’s DNA involves either modifying its playing approach or swapping out key players. Given that both Mitch Marner and John Tavares have had strong regular seasons but have not propelled the Leafs beyond the second round of the playoffs, the Maple Leafs’ leadership may be considering a shakeup involving these veterans. Both players are approaching critical contract moments, making them likely focal points in any rebuilding or rearrangement plans.
“… changing DNA comes in two ways, and this is what is sending ripples around the Toronto market and the league,” Johnson said. “You change your DNA by changing your players. And I think he’s directly alluding to Mitch Marner, John Tavares, the two biggest free agents who had great years.”
—Mike Johnson, NHL analyst
Treliving’s statement on the team’s DNA emphasized the need for a fresh approach due to repeated playoff shortcomings:
“If you keep getting to the same result, there’s some DNA that needs to change.”
He acknowledged that the planning process for the upcoming seasons had already begun but stressed that it was too early to finalize the roster for 2025-26.
“There’s some DNA that has to change in our team. If you keep getting to the same result, there’s some DNA that needs to change. That’s on me going forward. We’ve now started the planning, … (but it’s early for) putting a team together for 2025-26.”
—Brad Treliving, Toronto Maple Leafs GM
Contract situations highlight uncertainty around Marner and Tavares
Mitch Marner’s current contract expired at the end of this season, leaving him eligible for free agency in July 2025. Marner registered a career-best 102 points this regular season, but his contributions diminished during the playoffs, with just one assist in the last four games. This contrast between regular-season excellence and playoff struggles may influence the team’s decisions moving forward.
John Tavares, entering his 35th year next season, is also awaiting a contract extension after his $77 million deal ended. Since joining the Maple Leafs in 2018 after nine seasons with the New York Islanders, Tavares has delivered consistent offensive production, netting 38 goals this season. Despite this, the team has only advanced past the first playoff round twice during his tenure, underscoring ongoing postseason challenges.
GM signals openness to all possibilities regarding Marner’s future with the Maple Leafs
Brad Treliving confirmed that negotiations with Mitch Marner are still ongoing and that the organization is prepared for a range of outcomes. Meeting Marner during exit interviews, the GM emphasized a careful, collaborative decision-making process ahead of finalizing the roster for future seasons.
“I think Mitch is a tremendous player,” Treliving said. “I think he’s a star. We’re in that process right now… We’re going to meet as a staff, I’m going to be in touch with Mitch’s representative. Mitch has a say in this as well… You have to prepare for every potential outcome.”
—Brad Treliving, Toronto Maple Leafs GM
Marner, who has spent his entire NHL career with the Maple Leafs, expressed his appreciation for the city and team during this uncertain period.
“I’ve always loved my time here,” Marner said. “I loved being here … I’ve been so grateful.”
—Mitch Marner, Toronto Maple Leafs forward
Maple Leafs’ core remains anchored by long-term contracts for other key players
While discussions around Marner and Tavares continue, the Maple Leafs maintain stability with several other long-term players under contract. Superstar Auston Matthews is signed through 2028, William Nylander’s deal extends to 2032, and defenseman Morgan Rielly is secured through 2030. These foundational players provide a solid base as the team plans its next steps.
Potential changes mark a critical juncture for the Maple Leafs’ championship ambitions
The Maple Leafs’ ongoing playoff struggles and inability to progress beyond the second round have prompted management to rethink the team‘s trajectory. The possible departure or retention of John Tavares and Mitch Marner could be central to this transformation, reflecting a willingness to alter the team’s core identity, or “DNA,” in pursuit of Stanley Cup success. As contract talks evolve and planning for future seasons advances, how these decisions unfold will significantly shape the Maple Leafs’ competitive prospects in the coming years.