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Maple Leafs release former Stanley Cup champion right before season
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- Maple Leafs release former Stanley Cup champion right before season
The NHL season is just days away, and the Toronto Maple Leafs have made a notable roster move involving a familiar face as they continue trimming their squad ahead of opening night.
Steven Lorentz was placed on waivers by the Maple Leafs on Thursday, according to reports. The 30-year-old forward has spent the past two seasons in Toronto after joining the organization following his Stanley Cup-winning campaign with the Florida Panthers .
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Lorentz placed on waivers
NHL: Toronto Maple Leafs at Los Angeles Kings
Apr 4, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs center Steven Lorentz (18) scores short handed goal against the Los Angeles Kings during the first period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
Lorentz recorded seven goals and 18 points in 71 games with the Maple Leafs last season. He remains under contract with Toronto through the 2027-28 season, carrying an average annual value of $1.35 million.
While his offensive production has been modest, Lorentz brings valuable championship experience to the organization. He won the Stanley Cup with Florida during the 2024-25 season, recording one goal and three points in 38 regular-season games.
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His impact increased during the Panthers' playoff run. Lorentz scored twice and added an assist across 16 postseason games as Florida captured the championship.
If Lorentz clears waivers, he will be assigned to the Toronto Marlies, the Maple Leafs' American Hockey League affiliate. It would mark his return to the AHL after several years away from the league.
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Leafs continue roster changes
Lorentz has significant AHL experience, having spent three seasons with the Charlotte Checkers from 2017-18 through 2019-20. During the 2018-19 season, he helped the Checkers win the Calder Cup, giving him championships at both the AHL and NHL levels.
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The Maple Leafs also placed several other players on waivers as they continue finalizing their roster. Philippe Myers , Michael Pezzetta and Marshall Rafai were among the other players placed on waivers.
Toronto now has limited time to make its final roster decisions before the regular season begins. The Maple Leafs will open their campaign at home against the Montreal Canadiens on Sept. 29.
With several roster spots still being sorted out, Toronto's final decisions will determine which players remain with the NHL club and which could begin the season in the AHL.
For Lorentz, the next step depends on what happens during the waiver process, with a potential assignment to the Marlies awaiting if he goes unclaimed.
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