Maple Leafs' Retired Numbers Leave Only No. 2 Open Among Single Digits
Toronto has retired 13 sweater numbers honoring 19 players, leaving No. 2 as the only single-digit number not currently retired or in use. The club's first retired number was 6, set aside for Ace Bailey in 1934, though Ron Ellis later wore it with Bailey's approval. In 2016, Toronto changed 11 honored numbers covering 17 players into fully retired numbers, bringing the current totals to 13 numbers and 19 players.
Toronto long displayed banners without withdrawing numbers from circulation, letting them be passed down. That explains why 13 retired numbers honor 19 players. At the 2016 centennial opener, 11 honored numbers covering 17 players became formally retired; only 5 and 6 were already retired, while Doug Gilmour's 93 went straight to retired status.
Only single-digit 2 is unused, after Simon Benoit left for Philadelphia. Number 6, first set aside for Ace Bailey in 1934, was later worn by Ron Ellis with Bailey's consent. Number 99 appears historically available, but the NHL removed it league-wide for Wayne Gretzky in 2000.
The availability of No. 2 and other vacant numbers may matter most to fans, players, and merchandisers. New Maple Leafs could inherit historically significant digits, shaping jersey sales and fan attachment. Supporters may debate whether certain numbers should stay out of circulation, while former players' legacies could gain renewed attention. Because Toronto's history is so visible, these choices may influence how other clubs handle honored versus retired numbers, though the practical effect on the wider sport is likely modest.