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Another former Maple Leafs forward expresses interest in returning to Toronto


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Alexander Cole
January 21, 2026  (9:49)
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Dec 21, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) and Detroit Red Wings left wing James van Riemsdyk (21) battle for the puck during the third period at Little Caesars Arena.
Photo credit: Tim Fuller-Imagn Images

The Toronto Maple Leafs have been kicking tires on former players as of late, including Luke Schenn and a forward who now plays for the Detroit Red Wings.

Last season, the Toronto Maple Leafs brought in some older guys to help give this team a nice dose of leadership and experience late in the season.
One of those guys was Max Pacioretty, who made the team after being given a PTO. Despite interest in bringing him back, the forward opted to retire.
As it turns out, there was another 36-year-old who was on the Maple Leafs' radar last season, and it was a forward who previously played for the team.
That man was none other than James Van Riemsdyk, who ended up with the Columbus Blue Jackets and managed a 36-point season.

James Van Riemsdyk on interest in the Toronto Maple Leafs

During an interview on 'Leafs Morning Take,' Van Riemsdyk spoke about the Maple Leafs' interest in him and how it was certainly nice to take in.
While the interest was mutual, the Leafs did go with Pacioretty. Whether or not that was a mistake is hard to say, as both players served their purposes the right way.
There was some tire kicking, for sure
Just like Luke Schenn, Van Riemsdyk seems keen on a reunion. Whether or not the Leafs would make a trade for someone like Van Riemsdyk, at this stage in his career, remains to be seen.
With that being said, it's clear that Toronto has made an impression on a plethora of players. While some say Toronto is a bad place to play, there are others who say otherwise.
Only time will tell whether or not the Leafs can bring in Van Riemsdyk as he looks to end his career on a high note. For now, it seems like Detroit is the place for him.
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Another former Maple Leafs forward expresses interest in returning to Toronto

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