Maple Leafs avoid potential loss in NHL expansion draft
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 16, 2026, 2:29 AM
Last updated Aug 16, 2026
Toronto Maple Leafs fans are relieved that the next NHL expansion draft won't occur in 2027, which could have meant losing prospect Artur Akhtyamov. The team would have had to protect veteran goalie Sergei Bobrovsky due to his no-movement clause. If the expansion draft is rescheduled for 2029 or 2030, the Maple Leafs may be able to safeguard Akhtyamov, as Bobrovsky’s contract will expire in 2029. The organization’s belief in Akhtyamov was underlined when both Joseph Woll and Dennis Hildeby were traded this summer, indicating the team’s view of him as their future goalie.
- •Expansion draft discussion gaining momentum across NHL.
- •Maple Leafs may avoid losing Akhtyamov in 2029 or 2030.
- •Bobrovsky's contract will expire in 2029.
- •Toronto traded Woll and Hildeby to commit to Akhtyamov.
- •Losing Akhtyamov would be a significant blow for Toronto.
- 2:29 AMYahoo Sports — Maple Leafs Lucky NHL Expansion Draft Isn’t Happening in 2027
"Toronto Maple Leafs fans should be glad that the next NHL expansion draft won't be happening in 2027, as it could lead to a crucial loss. The post Maple Leafs Lucky NHL Expansion Draft Isn’t Happening in 2027 appeared first on HEAVY.
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