Toronto Maple Leafs sign young promising defenseman Marshall Rifai to a multi-year extension

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed defenseman Marshall Rifai to a $1.55 million contract extension that will keep him with the team for the next two years, starting in the 2025-26 season. Rifai was set to become an unrestricted free agent next summer, and he is now 26 years old and will carry a cap hit of $775,000 per season under the new deal.

Last season, Marshall Rifai played two games for the Leafs in his first NHL season, not scoring a point. He was a little better with the AHL's Toronto Marlies, scoring two goals and 19 points in 57 contests.

Marshall Rifai is considered to be one of the most tough-on-defense Canadian hockey players. He measures 6'1" and weighs 207 lbs. Rifai's three seasons at Harvard in the NCAA is where he garnered a lot of attention with his sound play. In 2022, following his signing with the Toronto Maple Leafs organization, he spent time with them in the NHL as well as their AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies.

During the 2022-23 season, Rifai made his NHL debut. His steady presence in the Leafs' backend and character on the ice make him a high-value asset to the team.

Source:
David Alter on X

Source: Hockey-Reference
Marshall Rifai Stats