GOOD NEWS: Maple Leafs Sign Forwards Travis Boyd, Benoit-Olivier Groulx, Michael Pezzetta, and Re-Sign Defenceman Dakota Mermis
Toronto, July 2, 2025 — The Toronto Maple Leafs have made significant additions to their roster during the early days of NHL free agency, officially announcing the signings of forwards Travis Boyd, Benoit-Olivier Groulx, and Michael Pezzetta, along with the re-signing of veteran defenceman Dakota Mermis.
The moves reflect the club’s continued focus on adding depth, toughness, and versatility as they look to build a more complete lineup for the upcoming 2025–26 NHL season.
Travis Boyd, 31, returns to Toronto after stints with Arizona and Washington. Known for his two-way play and reliability in the bottom six, Boyd brings veteran experience and faceoff strength. He tallied 9 goals and 14 assists in 66 games last season with the Coyotes.
Benoit-Olivier Groulx, 25, joins the Leafs from the Anaheim Ducks organization. A former second-round pick in 2018, Groulx spent most of last season with the San Diego Gulls (AHL) but showed promise in limited NHL action. His signing represents a low-risk, high-reward acquisition with potential to contribute in a checking-line role.
Michael Pezzetta, 27, adds grit and physicality to the Leafs’ forward group. Coming off three seasons with the Montreal Canadiens, Pezzetta is known for his relentless forechecking and willingness to drop the gloves. He recorded 5 goals, 7 assists, and 85 penalty minutes in 60 games last year.
Meanwhile, Dakota Mermis, 31, has agreed to a one-year contract extension with the Leafs after joining the team late last season. The left-shot blueliner played 13 games for Toronto and proved a dependable depth option, capable of stepping into the lineup when injuries strike.
Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving emphasized the importance of roster flexibility in today’s NHL.
> “We’re pleased to add players who bring a mix of experience, energy, and competitiveness,” Treliving said. “Each of these guys fills a different role, and we believe they’ll make us harder to play against.”
The contracts are reportedly all one-year, two-way deals with cap-friendly terms, giving the Leafs flexibility heading into training camp.
With these moves, Toronto continues to reshape its supporting cast around its core stars, aiming to finally break through in the playoffs after years of frustration.
