The Toronto Maple Leafs have announced that they have extended defenseman Marshall Rifai to a two-year contract extension, beginning in the 2025-26 season. This move comes as part of the team’s ongoing efforts to secure young talent and build a strong defensive core for the future.
Marshall Rifai, who has been steadily developing within the Leafs’ system, has shown significant promise with his strong defensive play and ability to contribute offensively when needed. Known for his smart positioning and physicality, Rifai has earned the trust of the coaching staff, making him a valuable asset for the team’s future plans.
The two-year extension reflects the organization’s confidence in Rifai’s potential to grow into a more prominent role on the team. While he has yet to establish himself fully at the NHL level, this contract indicates that the Maple Leafs see him as an important part of their defensive depth moving forward.
As the Leafs continue to manage their salary cap carefully, locking up a promising young defenseman like Rifai on a reasonable deal allows them to maintain flexibility while also ensuring they have a reliable pipeline of talent ready to step in when needed.
This extension is set to begin in the 2025-26 season, giving Rifai additional time to further develop his game and gain more experience, whether in the NHL or with the Toronto Marlies in the AHL. Leafs fans will be watching closely as Rifai continues to progress, hopeful that he can become a regular contributor on the team’s blue line in the near future.
Overall, this signing is another step in the Maple Leafs’ strategy to blend seasoned veterans with emerging young players, aiming to build a balanced and competitive roster capable of contending for the Stanley Cup.
