Ekman-Larsson enters a period of uncertainty after a strong 2025-26 campaign and a high market value. Toronto is retooling its roster under new GM John Chayka, creating a sense that veterans are being evaluated. He says he cannot speculate about what might happen and that decisions are made by management, so he concentrates on being his best every day. Last season he produced eight goals and 31 assists for 38 points in 78 games, his highest total since 2018-19. He has two years remaining on a four-year contract with a $3.5 million annual cap hit. He expects to return to Toronto and reflects on trade-deadline speculation while preparing for a baby.
"“You never know,” he said. “Something will probably happen with the team there, but exactly what that is, I don't know. Again, I'm not going to speculate on those kinds of things. The people sitting above me - John, Mats, and the rest of the organization - are the ones making those decisions. With everything else, all I can do is focus on being my best every day and hope that's enough.”"
"This past season, Ekman-Larsson was a strong point for Toronto amidst a weak season defensively. Through 78 games played, he recorded eight goals and 31 assists for 38 points. It was his highest tally since the 2018-19 season with the Arizona Coyotes. Ekman-Larsson now has two years remaining on his four-year deal, with an annual cap hit of $3.5 million. Understanding his future is out of his control, he's focused on himself for now."
"“Things usually work themselves out one way or another,” he said. “There's no point thinking too much about it, you just try to block it out. We'll see what the summer brings, but regardless, I'm expecting to go back there.”"
"Given his solid form last season, there was speculation he would be moved going into the trade deadline back in March. At one point, he was even held out of the lineup for precautionary reasons related to a potential move. After the deadline, he shared how glad he was to remain in Toronto, and now he's opening up more about that experience. “I think the whole situation became even more unique because we were expecting a baby just two weeks later,” Ekman-Larsson said."
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