Newly-acquired Maple Leafs forward is surprising the fanbase in Toronto

Jack Roslovic was added to bring some familiarity to Auston Matthews up front but has quietly been one of the NHL's most effective forwards early on.

One of the signings that Maple Leafs GM John Chayka made this summer was bringing in Jack Roslovic as a means to give Auston Matthews someone he trusts alongside with a proven 20-goal scorer who can elevate the rest of the lineup.

He's a great support piece who has had a great start to his Toronto career, and his chemistry with Matthews and new line-mate Kirill Marchenko has been a pleasant surprise to say the least early on in the 2026-27 season.

Jack Roslovic hasn't been just a one-trick pony for the Maple Leafs

But he's actually been more valuable than some may be giving him credit for, and the Maple Leafs might be in a much different spot without him. Roslovic ranks 10th in the NHL* in percentage of shot attempts (57%), eighth in xGF% (66.1%), and has outscored his opponents 3-1 so far.

*Among forwards with 50+ minutes played

Yes it's an early sample size but so far, Roslovic has been more than just scoring help. He's driving the offence, he's fighting hard for pucks - in fact, Gavin McKenna's first goal may not have happened had he not sprawled out to keep the puck alive:

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It's that level of competitiveness and heart that wins you games, and for all the critique he may get for his defensive game, you can't deny he can be a game-changer offensively. Plus, he added a goal as well against Nashville, so he's doing exactly what he's being paid to do as well.

John Chayka knew Roslovic was capable of more than just scoring

It makes John Chayka's decision to sign him at $4M per season a little easier to swallow, and while historically he is a player who slows downs the season progresses, he's also in a spot to thrive with a long-time friend.

While we can't expect him to throw up 70 points, if he can add 20 goals again while making plays like the one above? It's worth the price for sure.

There's a lot of credit to be given to both Auston Matthews and Kirill Marchenko for leading the top line this year, but they wouldn't have the success they've had without Roslovic as the third piece. He may not stand out or be a superstar, but he's been a necessary asset that has helped Toronto thrive despite a 2-2-0 record.

Chayka must have known that despite Roslovic's temperamental production and his lack of a defensive game that he could still be an effective part of the Maple Leafs. This year (and next) is all about making sure Auston Matthews wins and has the best team possible.

So it felt almost inevitable they'd add one of his best friends and frankly, he's doing pretty well given the immense pressure.

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