Turning down the Toronto Maple Leafs in free agency has become a noticeable trend. In recent seasons, numerous players have opted against joining the team, and this offseason has seen this pattern continue. Whether it’s due to a lack of playoff success, the high pressure of playing in Toronto, or more appealing offers elsewhere, the city known as the center of the hockey universe is finding it necessary to persuade players on the benefits of joining their franchise.

While this summer has highlighted the issue, it’s not the first time players have chosen other teams. Here are a few notable examples from recent seasons:

 Jeff Skinner Chooses Edmonton Over Toronto 
Chris Johnston from The Athletic and TSN reported that the Maple Leafs tried to recruit Jeff Skinner, suggesting he play alongside Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. Skinner declined and opted instead for the Edmonton Oilers, where he would play with Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl. Despite coming off a buyout in Buffalo and not detailing why he preferred Edmonton, it’s noteworthy that a 30-goal scorer chose not to join the Leafs. Was it the city, the roster, or a better chance to win in Edmonton?

 Tyler Bertuzzi Joins the Rebuilding Blackhawks
Toronto expressed interest in re-signing Tyler Bertuzzi after his successful one-season stint with them in 2023-24. Bertuzzi, who had a productive year with a $5.5 million contract, sought a multi-year deal that Toronto wasn’t willing to offer. Instead, he signed a four-year, $22 million deal with the Chicago Blackhawks, a team far from Stanley Cup contention. This decision might reflect both the Leafs’ and Bertuzzi’s priorities.

 Brandon Montour Opts for Seattle 
Defenseman Brandon Montour revealed he had talks with the Leafs before signing with the Seattle Kraken. Despite having friends and family in the area, Montour chose Seattle, a team with a similar-style defenseman in Vince Dunn. Family and business considerations, along with a possibly better offer from Seattle, influenced his decision.

 Milan Lucic and Radko Gudas Go Elsewhere 
Last offseason, Brad Treliving pursued Milan Lucic and Radko Gudas to add toughness to the Leafs. Lucic, who had a long history with the Boston Bruins, couldn’t bring himself to wear a Maple Leafs uniform. Gudas opted for Anaheim, avoiding the intense pressure of playing in Canada. In the end, the Leafs signed Ryan Reaves to a three-year deal, which received criticism from fans and insiders.

 Zach Hyman’s Departure Still Stings
Zach Hyman’s move to Edmonton remains one of the most regrettable losses for the Leafs. He signed a seven-year, $38.5 million contract with the Oilers on July 28, 2021, which initially drew criticism but has since proven to be a great signing. Hyman’s production has soared, with impressive stats including 54 goals in the regular season and 16 goals in 25 playoff games. His departure from Toronto, where he was well-liked, may have been influenced by how he was treated on his way out.