Toronto Showing Interest in Claude Giroux

The Toronto Maple Leafs were reportedly among the teams that expressed interest in free agent forward Claude Giroux during Day 1 of free agency, according to Postmedia’s Bruce Garrioch.

Garrioch lists the Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, and Colorado Avalanche as the other teams that reached out to Giroux on Wednesday. He points out that it wasn’t a surprise that no deal was made during the first day, as Giroux is 38. The veteran will wait to see all available options before deciding where to play.

The Ottawa Senators would love to have him back, given that they offered Giroux a contract extension around the trade deadline. However, he instead opted to test the free agent market. Who can blame him? It might be the last time he gets the opportunity to do so.

This past season with the Senators, Giroux registered 14 goals and 35 assists for 49 points in 82 games. He could be a top six option for Toronto if they’re still interested.

Despite being in the twilight of his career, it’s easy to see why teams are still interested in adding Giroux to their forward group. He is proficient at taking faceoffs and can still give a team 50 points. Giroux is also a right-shot forward, which is something Toronto and others would like to add more of.

The 38-year-old is coming off a one-year deal with a $2 million cap hit. His next deal is likely to fall around that number or slightly below. A middle six forward for $2 million or less on a one-year deal is a bargain regardless of Giroux’s age. Toronto could make it work if they really want him.

Toronto Could be a Real Option for Giroux

Coming to Toronto means Giroux could still play in the province he grew up in. He would also get the opportunity to reunite with Sergei Bobrovsky. The two were teammates in Philadelphia during the first two seasons of Bobrovsky’s career.

I can understand why the Maple Leafs are showing interest in him. However, Toronto did bring in a lot of forwards on Day 1 who can play down the middle. They have Jack Roslovic, Nick Paul, Colton Sissons, and Teddy Blueger all in the mix. So, adding Giroux may seem a bit redundant at this point.

Toronto will be better off signing a winger for their top six than adding another center. If they want a veteran who can still produce, Patrick Kane or Anthony Mantha could be options. Kane (37) on a one-year deal makes sense, but I’d be okay with a 3–4-year deal for Mantha (31).

Now, I’m not saying Giroux is for sure not going to sign in Toronto, but it is more likely that he ends up elsewhere for the 2026-27 season. My best guess is the Philadelphia Flyers, where he spent 15 seasons. Though, my guess is he is looking to join a team he believes has a chance to not only make the playoffs but win the Stanley Cup.