Maple Leafs defenseman could assume new role with Toronto next season

One of the Toronto Maple Leafs defensemen could assume a new role during the 2025-26 NHL season: Oliver Ekman-Larsson.

Ekman-Larsson, 34, signed a four-year contract for $3.5 million per season after winning the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers. Although in his first year in Toronto, he did not disappoint, he did show signs that suggest that he will have a different role the next campaign.

The Swedish player had a good performance as an offensive defenseman during the 2024-25 season, being the defender with the most points at five-against-five of the Leafs, evidencing his great capacity in a transition game and on power play. He added 24 points in 77 games, leading in individual xG. His defensive and possession stats were not the best. He fell below the 50% mark in shots and expected goals. He wasn't bad for Toronto, but he was not the elite player who many fans and critics expected.

The contract of Ekman-Larsson was criticized at the time for the duration and the cost, considering that he is a veteran player. However, it is precisely this last status that could make the Swede assume a new role with the Maple Leafs next season.

Oliver Ekman-Larsson poised to embrace mentor role for Maple Leafs

The former Florida player could be in an ideal moment for reinventing himself, and assume a role with fewer minutes guaranteed, but with a greater impact as mentor and reference for Toronto's young defensemen. That will take advantage of his 1,059 games in the NHL and his Stanley Cup pedigree.

The main task for coach Craig Berube will be how to manage his minutes, and take advantage of his leadership to stabilize the defense line. At the same time, Berube must find a way for Ekman-Larsson to help his defensive teammates to potentiate his offensive game.

A top-four role can no longer be demanded from a 34-year-old player. His physical decline will probably begin this season — or maybe even already did it in the previous campaign. The Swede will have to make his contract valuable not only at a sporting level, but also at a level of locker room management, leadership and veteran status.