The Toronto Maple Leafs have announced that they have placed Steven Lorentz on waivers. This decision comes as the team faces a significant challenge, currently sitting $2.8 million over the salary cap in anticipation of their regular season opener against the Montreal Canadiens scheduled for the upcoming Tuesday.

Steven Lorentz, 30, has one year remaining on his contract, which has an average annual salary of $1.35 million. The Kitchener, Ontario native had a notable season last year, participating in 71 games for the Maple Leafs, where he scored seven goals and accumulated 18 points. Lorentz initially joined the Leafs on a training camp invitation ahead of the 2024-25 season and later signed with the team. In June 2025, he secured a three-year contract extension.

In addition to Lorentz, the Leafs also announced the placement of defencemen Dakota Mermis and Cole McWard on waivers. If all three players clear the waivers, they are expected to report to the Toronto Marlies, the team’s American Hockey League affiliate.

Head coach Jim Hiller shared updates on the team’s injury situation, indicating that winger Dakota Joshua is likely to miss the beginning of the regular season due to a core muscle injury. Additionally, Hiller expressed uncertainty regarding Nick Paul's availability for the season opener next week. Paul, who was acquired from the Tampa Bay Lightning during the summer, was brought to the team in exchange for goalie Dennis Hildeby and two draft picks.

This move of placing players on waivers and managing injuries highlights the challenges the Leafs are facing as they prepare for the upcoming NHL season. As the roster shakes up ahead of the opener, the team is undoubtedly evaluating their options to navigate both salary cap constraints and player availability effectively.