Maple Leafs reduce training camp roster by 27 players

Toronto also returned Alexander Bilecki (Kitchener Rangers) Tyler Hopkins (Guelph Storm) and Harry Nansi (Owen Sound Attack) to the Ontario Hockey League. Bilecki is Daily Faceoff Toronto’s fifth-ranked Leafs prospect, Hopkins is ranked ninth, while Nansi is Daily Faceoff Toronto’s 13th-ranked prospect, while being named the Maple Leafs’ most improved player at development camp.

It’s been a condensed training camp, but the Maple Leafs are almost ready to finalize their opening night roster, ahead of Tuesday’s season opener against the Montreal Canadiens. Gavin McKenna, the 2026 first overall pick, is expected to start the year on a line with John Tavares and William Nylander, his primary linemates during training camp. The majority of Toronto’s projected opening night lineup will host the Ottawa Senators on Scotiabank Arena, while a de facto B squad will head to Ottawa.

“It’s felt like it’s been a long wait,” McKenna said of his impending season debut, following Monday’s morning skate. “So, for it to finally be here, it’s starting to get pretty real, and I’m excited. I’ve got a lot of family coming, and friends, I don’t get to play in front of my family a whole lot, so for them to be here for my first game, it’s pretty special to do it at an organization like this.”