John Chayka continues Leafs organization's overhaul with three new signings
Photo credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Toronto Marlies sign forwards Reese Johnson and Jackson Kunz plus goalie Timofei Obvintsev to one-year AHL deals as John Chayka retools the org.
The Toronto Marlies added some fresh depth to their roster this week, signing forward Jackson Kunz, forward Reese Johnson and goaltender Timofei Obvintsev to one-year AHL contracts ahead of the 2026-27 season.
It's the latest step in general manager John Chayka's plan to rebuild depth throughout the Maple Leafs organization since taking over in May.
The moves also give the defending Calder Cup champions added competition in camp.
Kunz arrives from the Abbotsford Canucks, where he spent time developing in Vancouver's system before becoming available.
He's a bigger forward who brings size and a physical edge to a Marlies lineup that just won the Calder Cup, giving Toronto another option up front as it tries to replace outgoing pieces from that championship group.
Reese Johnson returns to the fold
Johnson is a familiar face for Marlies fans.
The Saskatoon native came over to the organization last season and appeared in games down the stretch before an injury ended his year early.
He's spent time with both the Chicago Blackhawks and Minnesota Wild at the NHL level and gives Toronto a veteran presence to lean on through the middle of the lineup.
Obvintsev, meanwhile, represents more of a long term project.
The 21 year old goaltender was Toronto's fifth round pick in 2024 and spent last season in Russia's VHL with Gornyak UGMK, where he only saw limited action.
At six foot four, he has the frame teams look for in modern goaltending, and the Marlies clearly want to see what a full season of North American reps does for his development.
Building depth behind the big club
None of these three project as immediate NHL contributors, but that's not really the point.
Chayka has talked openly about wanting organizational depth after Toronto missed the playoffs last season, and moves like this fill out the pipeline behind a Marlies club that just captured the Calder Cup.
Expect more addition and subtraction on the farm as training camp approaches.
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