Maple Leafs fans react to Day 1 of 2025 free agency

Given that the bulk of the Leafs’ work came the day before the floodgates opened and there weren’t a lot of intriguing players that were worth considering, it makes sense why it was a mostly quiet day in Toronto. Granted, not all of the marquee free agents ended up signing and there are still a few intriguing names out there, but trades will be where the improvements occur.

When it comes to the first day of free agency, you always like to see your team get involved in the action. But sometimes being busy singing free agents isn’t necessarily a good thing; there’s still time for the Leafs to shape up their roster and make the adjustments needed.

As far as the only notable signing was concerned, one portion of the fan base was not entirely thrilled about the arrival of Pezzetta. Part of it has to do with the fact that he went scoreless and was barely in the lineup for a Montreal Canadiens team that made the playoffs. They are also concerned he will be a net negative in terms of on-ice impact and effectiveness.

On the flip side, there are others who are excited about his energy and relentless forecheck that will add some additional physicality on the fourth line. Pezzetta could also be seen as a younger and more useful version of Ryan Reaves, who is likely to be on the outs or, at the very least, assigned to the AHL next season. Whichever side you land, it is clear that Pezzetta has gotten Leafs fans talking!

As mentioned earlier, most of the signings were depth additions that will be able to help improve the Marlies. The NHL team is still undergoing renovations, so it is too soon to say how much better or worse the Leafs will be come next season. Regardless, Treliving still has plenty of work to do.

We want to hear from you: what are your thoughts on the first day of free agency?