What happened: The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed defenseman Troy Stecher to a two-year contract extension worth $2.7 million, carrying a $1.35 million average annual value. The 32-year-old right-shot defenseman returns to Toronto's blue line on a deal that runs through the back half of the decade.

Why it matters: Stecher gives Toronto a steady, cost-controlled option on the right side as the club shapes its defense corps heading into the 2026-27 season. At a $1.35 million cap hit, the extension preserves flexibility for a roster that has been active in reshaping its depth this offseason.

What to watch: Watch how Stecher slots into the right-side rotation and whether Toronto continues to add to its defensive depth before training camp.