NHL insider Frank Corrado expressed doubts on Tuesday about unrestricted free agent Jack Roslovic being a suitable addition to the Toronto Maple Leafs, despite Roslovic’s past association with star forward Auston Matthews. After completing a one-year, $2.8 million contract with the Carolina Hurricanes, speculation arose that the Leafs might pursue Roslovic to reunite teammates who played together in the U.S. National Team Development Program.

Expert Skepticism on Roslovic’s Fit with Toronto

Corrado acknowledged Roslovic as a skilled forward who delivered one of his best seasons in 2024-25, tallying 39 points across 81 games with Carolina. However, he remained cautious in endorsing a long-term commitment. Corrado noted that although Roslovic showed improvement last season, his overall career production has been inconsistent given his evident skill level.

“He’s (Jack Roslovic) a good player,” Corrado said. (10:01) “Last year just had his best year. He’s always been a good, skilled player, but he’s never really put it together production-wise for the skill that you see.”

“But he just kind of put it together last year in Carolina, and so for that reason, you look at it and say okay, I’m weary about attaching terms to it.”

Corrado further suggested that the Maple Leafs might be better served by monitoring the trade market early in the season instead of committing to Roslovic’s potentially costly contract. He expressed confidence in the current roster’s potential to win games and indicated Toronto could find a player with a better long-term fit through trades rather than free agency.

“I do believe Toronto’s team as currently composed can probably win enough games… Select someone from a team who might be selling that you think is a little more of maybe a better fit or a long-term fit or a consistent player. I don’t think Jack Roslovic might not be that for Toronto.”

Former Leaf Defenceman Doubts Roslovic’s Role with the Team

Carlo Colaiacovo, a former Maple Leafs defenseman, also voiced skepticism about signing Roslovic during a discussion on TSN 1050’s First Up podcast. Colaiacovo questioned whether Roslovic could earn a spot in the Maple Leafs’ lineup given the depth and talent already present.

“I’m not wasting my time for Jack Roslovic, and I’m not trying to disrespect the player,” Colaiacovo said. “I don’t see him as a top-6 player for the Maple Leafs, and because he can’t be a top-6 player on the Maple Leafs, he’s not going to beat out anybody in the bottom-6 with the way he plays on this group.”

He also pointed out concerns that Roslovic’s style might not align with the team’s strategic approach under the current head coach, possibly limiting his effectiveness within Toronto’s system.

What This Means for the Maple Leafs’ Roster Decisions

Given the analysis from both Corrado and Colaiacovo, it appears unlikely that Jack Roslovic will be pursued aggressively by the Maple Leafs despite his link to Auston Matthews through their earlier playing days. The team seems poised to focus on maintaining its existing core while exploring trade options that could better complement their style and roster needs. The Maple Leafs’ management will likely prioritize players who offer more consistent performance or a stronger fit within their system as the season approaches.