Maple Leafs Trade Joseph Woll to Flyers for Emil Andrae, Sam Ersson

The Toronto Maple Leafs sent goaltender Joseph Woll and defenseman Simon Benoit to the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for defenseman Emil Andrae, goaltender Sam Ersson and a 2026 third‑round draft pick. The move, announced on June 16, marks general manager John Chayka’s first offseason transaction and reflects a shift toward younger players in the crease and on defense. Andrae, a 24‑year‑old mobile defenseman, is expected to add speed and improved breakout play for Toronto, while Ersson provides a backup netminder option.

Flyers general manager Daniel Brière explained that the Flyers had monitored the Leafs’ situation, noting the emergence of Dennis Hildeby in Toronto’s net and the struggles of Sam Ersson. Brière said, “We were aware Toronto had Dennis Hildeby there… we started watching Woll,” and highlighted Woll as a potential upgrade to their goaltending tandem with Dan Vladar. Both clubs aim to address recent defensive lapses and goal‑tending depth through the trade.

The transaction signals a broader strategic realignment for both teams, with Toronto prioritizing a faster, more mobile defense and the Flyers seeking a more reliable backup goalie to support Vladar.