Leafs Nab Maccelli! What This Trade Means for Toronto's Playoff Push

By: Analia Gómez Published On: 30/06/2025

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Toronto Maple Leafs Bolster Roster with Matias Maccelli Acquisition

The Toronto Maple Leafs have acquired forward Matias Maccelli from the Utah Mammoth in a trade that sees Toronto sending a conditional third-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft to Utah. The pick could become a second-round selection in 2029 if Maccelli reaches at least 51 points in the 2025-26 season, and the Maple Leafs qualify for the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Maccelli, a 24-year-old native of Turku, Finland, played 55 games for Utah in the 2024-25 season, recording eight goals and ten assists. He has a total of 130 points (37 goals, 93 assists) in 224 career NHL games. Maccelli was previously named to the NHL’s All-Rookie Team in 2022-23 after a strong season with the Arizona Coyotes, where he led all rookies in assists with 38.

Maccelli's Path to the NHL

Before joining the NHL, Maccelli had a successful career in Europe. He was named the Liiga’s Rookie of the Year in 2019-20 after leading all rookies in goals (13), assists (17), and points (30). He also excelled in the AHL, leading all AHL rookies in assists (43) in 2021-22 and earning AHL Rookie of the Month honors twice.

International Experience

Maccelli has represented Finland on the international stage, playing in the 2020 World Junior Championship. He recorded two goals and three assists in seven games, helping Finland to a fourth-place finish.

What Maccelli Brings to Toronto

The acquisition of Matias Maccelli adds depth and skill to the Maple Leafs' forward lines. His playmaking ability and offensive instincts could provide a boost to the team's scoring potential. The conditional nature of the draft pick also indicates the Leafs' confidence in Maccelli's ability to contribute significantly to the team's success.

General Manager of the Utah Mammoth, Bill Armstrong, commented on the trade, stating, “We appreciate everything that Matias has done for the organization. He is a great person, consummate professional, and we wish him all the best.”