Maple Leafs’ Roy Subject of Oilers Trade Interest as Deadline Approaches
NEWARK, N.J. (March 5, 2026) – Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nicolas Roy is drawing significant trade interest from the Edmonton Oilers ahead of Friday’s NHL deadline, according to reports. Roy acknowledged being aware of the speculation, stating he’s “heard the rumour like everybody else” but remains focused on playing for the Leafs.
The Oilers, who recently added Connor Murphy, observe Roy – a defensively responsible, faceoff-winning center – as a potential fit for their playoff push. Toronto acquired Roy in a deal sending Mitch Marner to Vegas and currently holds his rights through the 2026-27 season. While the Leafs aren’t actively seeking to trade him, they are listening to offers.
Several other Leafs players are as well on the trade market, including Bobby McMann, Scott Laughton, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson, who did not play in Wednesday’s game against the New Jersey Devils. Leafs coach Craig Berube indicated roster management could occur, but not before tonight’s game.
Meanwhile, Auston Matthews addressed the team’s struggles this season, emphasizing the need to stay positive and lead by example despite a recent goalless streak. The Leafs face the Devils tonight before a Thursday matchup against the New York Rangers.
Maple Leafs’ Roy Addresses Oilers Trade Rumors as Deadline Looms
Nicolas Roy, the Toronto Maple Leafs forward, acknowledged the swirling trade rumors connecting him to the Edmonton Oilers, but reiterated his desire to remain in Toronto. Roy addressed the speculation following the team’s skate at Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., on Wednesday.
Rumors and Reality: A Player’s Perspective
Roy stated he’s aware of the reports, particularly those discussed on TSN’s Insider Trading segment, but is focused on his current role with the Leafs. “I saw the rumour like everybody else,” Roy said. “But, I signify, rumours, until they arrive true, nothing really happened.”
Pro Tip: Players often downplay trade speculation publicly, focusing on their current team and performance. What we have is a common strategy to avoid distractions and maintain professionalism.
He reflected on past experiences, noting that rumors don’t always materialize. “I wasn’t expecting to be traded last summer and never heard any rumours and then it happened, and sometimes you hear rumors and it doesn’t happen,” he explained. “So, yeah, I heard it like everybody else, but I’m playing for the Leafs now and I aim for to be here.”
Oilers’ Interest and Roy’s Value
The Oilers, seeking center depth as they push for a playoff run, have reportedly shown interest in Roy. Edmonton has already added defenseman Connor Murphy this season. Roy, acquired by Toronto in a deal with the Vegas Golden Knights for Mitch Marner, fits the Oilers’ needs as a defensively responsible, faceoff-winning penalty killer.
A Reasonable Contract and Playoff Experience
Roy’s contract, at $3 million AAV through 2026-27, is considered reasonable. He too brings valuable playoff experience, having been a two-time Stanley Cup finalist with Vegas. He acknowledged that being on a trade list can be seen as a compliment. “Obviously I have a lot of playoff experience playing in Vegas for a while,” he noted.
Leafs’ Perspective and Trade Bait List
The Maple Leafs aren’t actively seeking to trade Roy, but are listening to offers. He recently climbed to No. 12 on TSN’s trade bait list, indicating increased interest from other teams. Leafs coach Craig Berube appreciates Roy’s consistent effort, despite acknowledging his offensive production could be higher.
“I know what I’m getting every night,” Berube said. “I know that his production is not where he wants it to be and we would like it a little higher too. He’s done a good job killing penalties and just being used in different situations for us throughout the year.”
Other Leafs Players on the Block
Roy isn’t the only Leaf drawing trade attention. Bobby McMann, Scott Laughton, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Simon Benoit, and Brandon Carlo also appear on TSN’s trade bait list. Berube acknowledged the players are likely aware of the trade talk. “They’re obviously thinking about it,” he said. “That’s natural.”
Several Leafs players, including McMann, Laughton, and Ekman-Larsson, were held out of Wednesday’s game against the New Jersey Devils, potentially as a precautionary measure ahead of the trade deadline.
Matthews’ Leadership and Team Struggles
Captain Auston Matthews addressed the team’s struggles, emphasizing the need to stay positive and focus on their work ethic. “You can only control what you can control, so for me it’s the work ethic, it’s the compete level that I play with,” Matthews stated. The Leafs are currently last in the Atlantic Division.
Did you know? Auston Matthews was defended by Jack and Quinn Hughes after leading Team USA to a gold medal at the Olympics, with the Hughes brothers publicly stating he is a winner.
Injury Updates and Roster Management
Chris Tanev underwent core muscle surgery and will miss the remainder of the season. Oliver Ekman-Larsson’s wife is expecting a baby soon, adding a personal element to his situation. Easton Cowan, a Leafs rookie, is expected to see increased playing time.
FAQ: NHL Trade Deadline
Q: What is the NHL trade deadline?
A: The NHL trade deadline is set for 3 p.m. ET on Friday.
Q: What factors influence a player’s trade value?
A: Contract length, playoff experience, defensive responsibility, and faceoff ability are all key factors.
Q: Why do teams make trades at the deadline?
A: Teams typically make trades to address weaknesses in their roster and improve their chances of success in the playoffs.
Stay tuned to 247sports.new for the latest updates on the NHL trade deadline and the Maple Leafs’ situation.
Want more NHL news? Explore our NHL coverage here.