Rögle is preparing for the chance that Tinus Luc Koblar may not return immediately after Maple Leafs camp, creating an unexpected development decision for Toronto.
Dan Tangnes received an update regarding Koblar on August 12 that revealed Rogle - the team who signed Koblar to play for them in 2026-27, may not have him available once their regular season starts due to the Maple Leafs potential desire to keep him in North America:
Tinus is leaving at the turn of the month; first there's a rookie tournament, followed by main camp. After that, exactly when-or if-he returns is still up in the air. But he'll most likely come back, which is why it's important for him to play the first game to get a feel for things and settle into the system. (Translated from Swedish)
Tangnes is also under the impression that Rogle is going to have Koblar play in their first training scrimmage on Aug. 19, and potentially appear in their second one on August. 27.
Koblar getting his shot in North America could keep him here permanently
Koblar signed his three-year ELC with the Maple Leafs on June 15, and had a strong season in both Sweden and playing for Team Norway at the IIHF World Championships. He outscored names like Ivar Stenberg, and helped the Norwegian side come away with their first IIHF medal in history - securing bronze.
But he's also a prospect who has grown considerably since being drafted in 2025. He was a relative unknown and off the board pick but his raw talent, two-way potential and size were appealing to then-GM Brad Treliving. Since then though he's proven that he can play against NHL-level talent and succeed while also maintaining a strong defensive game.
Toronto's decision to sign Koblar to a three-year entry-level contract after his breakout season already shows that his timeline has accelerated. He has the Prospect Showcase which allows him a chance to prove his merit against fellow rookies, then gets a chance to potentially play NHL players yet again during the preseason.
A strong camp could force Toronto to choose between returning Koblar to Sweden for another season of SHL minutes or keeping him in North America for a more direct development path with the Marlies.
Koblar already ahead of the curve and Toronto is betting on his rapid growth
But it's a genuine surprise to see a player who had no real fanfare come out of the woodwork and prove that he can be a solid contributor.
He's already working closely with Mats Sundin and the former Maple Leafs captain can help guide him and give him tips considering he too was a big-bodied centre.
After recording 14 points in 47 games with Leksands last year at only 18, Koblar is still years away from his prime but has proven that high-level competition doesn't scare him. If the Marlies can give him power-play and penalty killing time, a lot of ice time and perhaps even a top-six role right away - he could thrive.
The Maple Leafs have often played it safe with their prospects over the years, as they seem hesitant to pull the trigger even if that player is on a hot streak. But it's hard not to with Koblar considering the potential that lies underneath - potential that they are hoping to unlock a lot sooner than later.
Will the Maple Leafs keep Tinus Luc Koblar in North America as opposed to let him go back to Sweden?
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