The Toronto Maple Leafs own the No. 1 pick in the upcoming NHL Draft, but general manager John Chayka seems open to exploring options.

Speaking at the NHL Scouting Combine, Chayka responded to rumors about moving the top pick. He did not rule out a trade entirely, but his comments suggested that Toronto plans to keep the pick.

“I would say the probability is we take the pick just realistically,” Chayka said, as per TSN reporter Mark Masters on X. “Obviously, everything is for sale at the right price, but to date, there’s nothing compelling that we’re seriously considering, but there’s still time.”

Chayka’s comments shed some light on Toronto’s draft plans. With the No. 1 overall pick, the Maple Leafs control the top of the draft board. As of writing, numerous analysts have picked forward Gavin McKenna as the best prospect available and the favorite to be selected first.

NHL general managers rarely rule out trades completely, especially when they own the top pick. However, by saying no offer has been strong enough, Chayka is seemingly hinting that Toronto may have an asking price.

Coming in with 8.5% odds, the Maple Leafs unexpectedly won the No. 1 overall pick and now have a major decision to make. Many believe Gavin McKenna has the production and potential to safeguard the team's offense for a decade.

Notably, the franchise's last No. 1 pick was a success. Drafted first overall in 2016, captain and center Auston Matthews has been a cornerstone of his team and has cemented his status as one of the greatest players of his generation.

The draft will be held on June 26, so unless a team makes a huge offer in time, the Toronto Maple Leafs will keep the pick.

Chayka's Evaluation Process: Character Matters as Much as Talent

Besides the trade rumors, Chayka also talked about Toronto’s evaluation process, especially when discussing Penn State's Gavin McKenna.

“We’ve spent a lot of time with him and his family,” Chayka said. “We want to make sure we get the person right, first and foremost.”

He stated that character is just as important as talent on the ice, especially when playing in a demanding market like Toronto.

The Maple Leafs are also continuing to evaluate other top prospects, including Swedish winger Ivar Stenberg. Chayka said senior advisor Mats Sundin has helped the team assess Stenberg’s long-term potential.

While the draft remains the main focus, the Toronto Maple Leafs are also carrying out a major coaching search. Chayka said the team assessed 55 candidates before reducing the list.

He explained that the organization wants to make the right choice and has no intention of rushing the process.

“So, no timeline, no time constraints — when it’s right, we’ll make that decision," he said, as per Sportsnet. "But we’re going to be patient and get it right.”

Based on Chayka’s latest comments, it seems more likely that Toronto will keep the pick rather than trade it away.

Should the Maple Leafs keep the No. 1 pick and draft Gavin McKenna, or should they trade it for immediate success?

Read more at the NHL Fan Central.

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Sijo Paul