NEWS UPDATE:Newly Acquired Toronto Maple Leaf Star Dakota Joshua Has finally Rejected Jersey Number

Toronto Maple Leaf

**Newly Acquired Toronto Maple Leaf Dakota Joshua Has Incredible Reason For Jersey Number**

 

When Dakota Joshua was officially introduced as a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs, many fans were eager to learn more about the gritty forward set to bring physicality and depth to the roster. But one detail that immediately caught attention was his jersey number—**81**—a choice that carried more weight than most might expect.

 

Joshua, who joined the Maple Leafs in a quiet but strategic offseason signing, revealed in an interview that his jersey number is more than just a digit stitched on his sweater. “I chose 81 to honor someone very important in my life—my late grandfather,” Joshua said. “He passed away on August 1st (8/1), and that date has stuck with me since. Wearing 81 is a way to keep him close every time I step on the ice.”

 

For Joshua, this is not the first time he’s paid tribute to family through his play. Known for his relentless work ethic and no-nonsense approach, he credits much of his determination to his upbringing and the strong bond he shared with his grandfather, who was one of his biggest supporters growing up in Michigan.

 

“He never missed a game when I was a kid,” Joshua added. “Even in the coldest rinks or during the longest road trips, he was there. This is my way of saying thank you.”

 

The number 81 has also had some history in the Leafs organization, most famously worn by former star winger Phil Kessel. While comparisons are inevitable, Joshua isn’t worried about expectations. “I’m not trying to be the next Kessel,” he said with a smile. “I just want to be the best version of myself and make an impact in my own way.”

 

Toronto fans have already shown appreciation for Joshua’s heartfelt gesture, applauding the meaningful reason behind the number choice. In a city where hockey culture runs deep and every detail matters, it’s the small personal touches like this that resonate with supporters.

 

As Dakota Joshua begins his journey in the blue and white, it’s clear his presence won’t just be felt physically on the ice—but emotionally, too. For a team seeking both toughness and heart, Joshua’s story is a perfect fit. His jersey may say 81, but the meaning behind it says

so much more.

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