Toronto Maple Leafs fans react strongly to rumors that their team may be eyeing 27-year-old winger Michael Pezzetta. Known for his grit and physical presence rather than point production, Pezzetta would be a depth addition and a potential culture fit under GM Brad Treliving’s vision for a more formidable, more competitive lineup.
But not all fans are on board with the idea. Many took to social media expressing concern, and even frustration, about the possible move, with some questioning whether Pezzetta is even NHL-caliber.
Michael Pezzetta Rumored as Potential Free Agent Target, Sparking Mixed Reaction Among Toronto Maple Leafs Fans
According to a report by The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun, the Maple Leafs are among several teams considering signing Michael Pezzetta when the free agent market opens.
While not a household name or offensive threat, Pezzetta plays with intensity, energy, and a willingness to engage physically.
Wouldn’t surprise me if the Maple Leafs are among the teams who show interest in Michael Pezzetta when the market opens Tuesday
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) June 30, 2025
Pezzetta fits the mold of a classic grinder. He’s the kind of player who gives 100% on every shift, forechecks hard, and doesn’t shy away from scrums. His game is built on hustle and physicality, not finesse or skill.
In that way, he could align with Brad Treliving’s efforts to change the Leafs’ identity into one that’s harder to play against. Pezzetta’s profile also aligns with what new head coach Craig Berube values: toughness, effort, and accountability. Yet Leafs fans aren’t unanimously convinced this is the right move.
The reaction online was swift and critical. One fan simply wrote, “He’s not an NHLer,” while another added, “They can have him. Useless.” Some saw it as a possible backup option, with one fan commenting, “Perhaps if they don’t sign Lorentz.”
He’s not an nhler
— Dom (@DomUn1que) June 30, 2025
Another fan took a jab at the source, saying, “Thanks Pierre! According to you Leafs were supposed to pay Tavares $7 million and also lose Knies to an offer sheet.” Yet another echoed the critical sentiment and couldn’t see the Maple Leafs benefiting from Pezzetta. “Good luck with him Toronto.”
Thanks Pierre! According to you leafs were supposed to pay Tavares 7 million and also lose Knies to an offer sheet.
— ValueTakes (@lukitoo34) June 30, 2025
Part of the skepticism stems from Petta’s recent play. In 2024–25, he went scoreless in 25registeredthough he did register 24 penalty minutes. Despite his limited offensive impact, Pezzetta has built a role as an enforcer-type player who could theoretically fill the spot that Ryan Reaves was supposed to occupy.
Reaves was brought in to help shift the Leafs’ locker room culture and provide toughness on the ice. While he was widely respected behind the scenes, his limited contribution during games led to him being waived and reassigned to the AHL by the end of the season. Pezzetta, who is younger and perhaps more mobile, could serve a similar function while being more usable on the fourth line.
Drafted by the Canadiens in the sixth round of the 2016 NHL Draft, Pezzetta has played 200 career NHL games and collected 38 points (15 goals, 23 assists). His hometown roots in Toronto may make the move appealing to both sides on a personal level, but whether he can truly contribute meaningfully on the ice remains an open question.
No deal has been finalized yet, and it’s unclear whether Toronto will officially pursue Pezzetta. However, LeBrun’s report indicates that the Maple Leafs are at least in the mix.
