As the 2025-26 NHL Free Agency period begins, the market is heating up. The Toronto Maple Leafs have taken another centre off the free agent board, as Teddy Blueger signs a two-year contract worth $2.5 million per season. Previously, Blueger signed a two-year deal with AAV of $1.8 million with the Vancouver Canucks on June 26, 2024. Blueger only played 35 games this past season for Vancouver, recording nine goals and eight assists. Prior to playing in Vancouver, Blueger was part of the Vegas Golden Knights organization when they won the Stanley Cup in 2023. He also spent five seasons playing for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
2 x $2.5M https://t.co/w0exRhwrbh
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) July 1, 2026
Teddy Blueger Signs With Toronto On a Two-Year Contract
Blueger is a player who is proficient in face-offs and can be a solid third-line centre who can be on the penalty kill. He is a defensive forward who can be used in shut-down roles against the opposing top lines. Former Canucks Head Coach Adam Foote had no shortage of praise for the Latvian forward, noting he would love to have him for a playoff run. Without Blueger on the penalty kill for the majority of this past season, the Canucks PK fell to last place in the NHL. With a change of scenery, Blueger can be a leader, as well as a role model of defensive responsibility.
What Does Blueger Bring to the Table?
Blueger has shown that he can be a positive locker room presence. People who can establish a positive culture and mentor young players will be indispensable, and Blueger is just one example of that kind of player. He has a strong work ethic along with Stanley Cup-winning experience, which can prove important in a mentorship role. As the Leafs also acquired Colton Sissons earlier today, they continue to bolster their bottom-six depth.
As the offseason continues, so will our coverage here at Last Word on Hockey. Happy free agent frenzy to you all!
Main photo by: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
