Darren Raddysh trade grades: Did Maple Leafs land their new No. 1 defenseman?

Key Points:

• The Toronto Maple Leafs acquired defenseman Darren Raddysh from the Tampa Bay Lightning in a sign-and-trade deal, giving up a 2026 fifth-round pick and signing Raddysh to an eight-year, $68 million contract with an average annual value of $8.5 million.
• Raddysh, 30, had a breakout 2025-26 season with Tampa Bay, posting career highs in goals (22), assists (48), and points (70), and excelling as a power play quarterback during Victor Hedman’s injury absence.
• Toronto, coming off a poor defensive season and needing to retool its aging blue line, hopes Raddysh can be a true No. 1 defenseman, but there is risk given his age and the length of the contract extending into his late 30s.
• The Lightning chose to trade Raddysh rather than commit to a long-term, high-value contract, receiving a late-round pick instead, which leaves a gap in their defensive lineup as veteran players age.
• The trade is seen as a gamble for Toronto’s GM John Chayka, who may have secured a valuable asset if Raddysh maintains his level, but also risks overpaying for a late bloomer whose performance could decline.