Maple Leafs News & Rumours: Carle, Groulx, Robertson & Bourque Offer Sheet

The offseason is already starting to heat up for the Toronto Maple Leafs, and there’s speculation about where the organization could be headed next. Between the search for a new head coach, potential trade chips emerging from within the system, and creative roster-building ideas beginning to surface, it’s clear the team is preparing for an important summer.

After a frustrating non-playoff season, change feels inevitable in Toronto. The front office appears focused on getting younger, faster, and more flexible moving forward, while also trying to maximize the remaining prime years of Auston Matthews and the team’s core group. Here’s a look at three stories currently surrounding the Maple Leafs.

Maple Leafs Pushing Hard for David Carle

The Maple Leafs appear to be serious about pursuing University of Denver head coach David Carle, one of the most highly regarded young coaches in hockey right now. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman recently reported that Toronto is actively “working through” the process of trying to bring Carle aboard as the team’s next head coach.

Carle has built an outstanding reputation during his time in Denver, developing NHL-calibre talent while turning the program into one of college hockey’s premier destinations. At just 35 years old, he’s viewed by many as a modern coach capable of connecting with younger players while still demanding structure and accountability. For a Maple Leafs team that has struggled to consistently adapt in the playoffs, that kind of fresh voice could be exactly what management is searching for.

The challenge, however, is that Toronto isn’t alone. The Colorado Avalanche are also believed to have interest in Carle if they decide to make a coaching change of their own following a disappointing sweep at the hands of Mitch Marner and the Vegas Golden Knights. Because Carle has deep roots in Denver dating back to 2009, many around the league believe Colorado could ultimately have the inside track if the position becomes available.

Still, Friedman noted on the Donnie and Dhali podcast that the Maple Leafs are determined to make their case. Toronto clearly sees Carle as more than just another candidate, and the organization appears willing to push aggressively to at least get him seriously considering the opportunity. Whether that’s enough to pull him away from a familiar environment remains one of the more fascinating questions of the offseason.

Will Bo Groulx Become Part of the Maple Leafs Roster?

It wasn’t an especially strong year for many depth players in the Maple Leafs organization, but Bo Groulx may have quietly boosted his value more than anyone expected. The 25-year-old forward had an excellent season with the American Hockey League (AHL) Toronto Marlies, recording 28 goals and 52 points in 59 games while becoming one of the club’s most reliable two-way forwards.

That production earned Groulx a call-up to the NHL later in the season, and he made a solid impression during his short stint with Toronto. In 13 games, he recorded three goals and five points while posting a plus-4 rating at 5-on-5. More importantly, he looked comfortable in a bottom-six role, bringing physicality, energy, and defensive reliability every night.

There’s also a possibility another team sees untapped upside in him. Groulx’s combination of size, effort, and defensive responsibility could appeal to rebuilding teams looking for inexpensive NHL-ready forwards. If the Maple Leafs decide they can’t guarantee him a regular role next season, this may be the perfect time to capitalize on his improved stock.

Could Mavrik Bourque Be a Perfect Offer Sheet Fit?

One intriguing rumour is the possibility that the Maple Leafs will target Dallas Stars forward Mavrik Bourque with an offer sheet this summer. Bourque, the 30th overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, has steadily developed into a legitimate young NHL forward with top-six upside.

After dominating in the AHL with a 77-point season in 2023-24, Bourque took another step forward this past year with Dallas, improving his offensive totals from 25 points to 41 while continuing to show strong defensive instincts. He can play both centre and wing, moves well, and has already proven capable of handling difficult defensive assignments despite still being only 24 years old.

What makes the situation particularly interesting is Dallas’ looming salary cap crunch. The Stars are expected to hand Jason Robertson a massive extension that could exceed $10 million annually, which may leave them vulnerable to matching a sizeable offer for Bourque. Toronto, meanwhile, is projected to have cap flexibility and currently owns a second-round pick in 2027.

An offer sheet in the range of roughly $4.7 million annually could potentially force Dallas into a difficult decision. For the Maple Leafs, surrendering a second-round pick for a young centre with legitimate offensive upside might be a gamble worth taking, especially given the organization’s long-standing need for more depth down the middle behind Matthews.

What’s Next for the Maple Leafs?

The next few weeks could shape the direction of the franchise for years to come. Whether it’s landing a high-profile coaching candidate like Carle, uncovering extra value through players such as Groulx, or taking an aggressive swing on a young talent like Bourque, the Maple Leafs appear ready to explore multiple avenues to improve the roster.

After another poor season, standing still simply doesn’t feel like an option anymore.