The Toronto Maple Leafs look ready to part ways with veteran forward Calle Jarnkrok, according to NHL insider David Pagnotta.

The report, later shared by NHL Rumour Report on X, says Jarnkrok is not expected to return to Toronto for the 2026-27 season when he becomes an unrestricted free agent.

Pagnotta shared the update while discussing the Maple Leafs’ offseason plans. New general manager John Chayka could have a busy summer ahead.

While most attention has focused on trade rumors involving Morgan Rielly and Toronto’s goaltending situation, Jarnkrok’s future has also become an important decision for the team.

The 34-year-old forward is expected to become a free agent, and the Toronto Maple Leafs are not expected to offer him a new contract. Letting Calle Jarnkrok leave would give Toronto more roster flexibility as it looks to add a top-six winger, a middle-six center, and defensive help.

Jarnkrok’s final season with Toronto was difficult. He played 56 games and scored only eight points, which was well below expectations. The report also raised questions about other players. 

Restricted free agent Matias Maccelli may not receive a qualifying offer, while pending unrestricted free agent defenseman Troy Stecher has only had early talks about a possible return.

Overall, Toronto appears headed for a busy offseason with several roster changes possible.

A Veteran Career Nearing Another Crossroads

While his time with the Toronto Maple Leafs may be coming to an end, Calle Jarnkrok leaves with a long NHL career built on versatility and reliability.

The Detroit Red Wings selected him in the second round of the 2010 NHL Draft, and he later established himself in the NHL with the Nashville Predators after a 2014 trade.

Over the years, Jarnkrok earned a reputation as a dependable two-way forward who could play in different roles throughout the lineup. He spent several seasons in Nashville before later playing for the Seattle Kraken, Calgary Flames, and eventually joining the Maple Leafs as a free-agent signing in July 2022.

Although offense was never his strength, Jarnkrok consistently provided coaches with flexibility at both center and wing while contributing on special teams. His experience also includes helping Nashville reach the Stanley Cup Final in 2017.

As a free agent, he could attract teams looking for experienced depth, but his next opportunity is expected to come outside Toronto.

What do you think? Which NHL team would be the best fit for Calle Jarnkrok as he heads toward free agency this summer? Comment your opinion below. 

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Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi