Leafs sign Raddysh from Lightning

The Toronto Maple Leafs have acquired defenseman Darren Raddysh from the Tampa Bay Lightning in a sign-and-trade deal. This transaction was made official on Friday, with Raddysh signing an eight-year contract worth an average annual value of $8.5 million.

The Lightning received a fifth-round pick in the 2026 draft as part of the deal. Raddysh, who had a breakout season in 2025-26 with career highs of 22 goals, 48 assists, and 70 points, is seen as a vital addition to the Maple Leafs' defensive lineup.

General Manager John Chayka expressed confidence in Raddysh's ability to impact the game holistically, emphasizing his strong play against top competition and his offensive contributions, particularly on the power play.

This acquisition marks a significant move for Chayka, who has been actively reshaping the team's roster since taking over the GM role. The signing of Raddysh has raised some concerns due to his previous performance being a potential outlier, but the Leafs are banking on his continued success.

Raddysh is viewed as a crucial piece for a team that has struggled to find a top-pair defenseman, aiming to enhance their chances for a Stanley Cup run as their core players approach their 30s. This deal, along with recent trades and coaching changes, signals a new direction for the Maple Leafs as they prepare for the upcoming NHL season.