We are less than one month away from the start of the 2025-26 regular season, and the Toronto Maple Leafs have yet to truly replace Mitch Marner.
The trade market was very quiet this offseason, much to the chagrin of hockey fans. However, as training camps approach, we could start to see more activity around the league.
Next summer’s free agent class is currently loaded with talent, and one star that could be a part of it is Adrian Kempe. The Kings winger wants to stay in LA; however, they’re still not close on an extension.
Because of that, Nestor Quixtan of Heavy Sports has suggested that the Maple Leafs pounce on the situation and trade for the three-time 30-goal scorer.
Maple Leafs receive: Adrian Kempe
Kings receive: Bobby McMann, Nick Robertson, 2027 second-round pick
“The Kings may ask for a boatload in exchange for Kempe. However, the club may not be able to sway potential trade partners to pay up big time. The Maple Leafs, meanwhile, could offer the best return by sending two young, rising wingers in Robertson and McMann,” Quixtan said.
“Los Angeles may also ask for a first-round pick, but given their situation, it’s unlikely that will be part of the return. In all likelihood, the Maple Leafs’ second-rounder from 2027 will be enough to move the needle,” Quixtan added.
Kempe is poised to enter the final season of the four-year, $22 million contract he signed with the Kings back in 2022.
Kempe would be a great target for Toronto
Whether or not he’ll be available, Adrian Kempe is the exact type of player the Toronto Maple Leafs should be targeting for their top six.
Kempe brings skill, size, speed, and grit, a combination that Toronto has been seeking for years. Not to mention, he thrives in the playoffs, elevating his game to another level, having produced at over a point per game rate (29 points in 28 games) in his postseason career.
The odds of the Kings trading their best forward are very low, but if Adrian Kempe does, in fact, reach free agency next summer, then the Maple Leafs should be all over it.
