Maple Leafs, Flyers, Sharks, and Lightning All Bidding for Free Agent Darren Raddysh

The Toronto Maple Leafs are among several teams vying for the services of top unrestricted free agent Darren Raddysh, who could be a major addition to a defense that needs a serious overhaul. The 30-year-old blueliner is expected to hit the market after playing out the final season of a two-year, $1.95 million contract he signed with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2023. Raddysh put together a career-best 70-point season in 2025-26, recording 22 goals and 48 assists in 73 games.

Team reporter Jonas Siegel recently highlighted Raddysh as the Maple Leafs’ top free-agent target, noting the potential impact he could have on the back end. “Raddysh would be a complicated addition,” Siegel wrote. “On the one hand, he would help the Leafs in areas of need on the back end, namely, his ability to move pucks effectively and boost the power play with a big shot and QB presence. The complication is that he’s 30 and the Leafs are already flooded with 30-and-over defensemen, but if the Leafs and their new GM John Chayka can’t solve their need back there via trade, there’s a case to make for the Toronto native.”

The Maple Leafs are not the only team in the mix. The Philadelphia Flyers and San Jose Sharks are also heavily involved, both with cap space and a clear need for a top-four defender. Tampa Bay, Raddysh’s former team, is also in the running, though they face a tighter cap situation. Raddysh’s familiarity with the Lightning’s system and playoff success could make him a tempting re-signing target, but his unrestricted status gives him full freedom to explore the open market.

Raddysh’s 22 goals from the blue line ranked among the top defensemen in the league last season, and his 48 assists placed him in the top 10 in scoring among defensemen. His ability to quarterback the power play and generate offense from the point makes him a valuable asset for any team looking to elevate their special teams.

The Maple Leafs are entering a pivotal offseason under new general manager John Chayka, who will look to reshape the roster ahead of the 2026-27 season. With limited options in free agency, landing Raddysh could be a key move to stabilize the defense. However, the team will have to balance the risk of adding another veteran with the need for long-term stability.

Raddysh is expected to be a hot commodity once free agency opens, and the Maple Leafs will need to act quickly to secure his services. The market for top defensemen is expected to be competitive, with teams eager to upgrade their blue lines before the new season. The final decision will come once the NHL’s free agency period opens on July 1.