Analyst floats blockbuster Morgan Rielly to franchise $1.55M as Maple Leafs struggles mount

NHL trade talk all around Toronto Maple Leafs got stronger this week. They have lost eight of their last ten games, and this has upset their fans, putting pressure on the management. A Sportsnet 590 FAN segment floated the idea of ​​a major move involving defenseman Morgan Rielly.

Hosts JD Bunkis and Sam McKee discussed whether Rielly could benefit from a change of scenery as Toronto's struggles continue.

“I'm so sick of watching Morgan Rielly pull pucks out of his own net,” McKee said.

McKee feels the situation has become repetitive. He added that Rielly has been in Toronto for a long time and may be worn down by market pressure. McKee suggested the Leafs and Rielly could reach a point where a fresh start makes sense.

“It's like you've been here for so long at some point in a market like this, where so many people are watching and so many people are familiar with your game, and a lot of people are sick of it,” McKee said.

“And he's got to be sick of it, too. He's such a proud guy. There's nobody who speaks with more pride and has more passion and talks about these things. He's got to be sick of it, too.”

McKee believes Rielly could be open to leaving if the organization approaches him about a move.

“Like there's no way that if they talk to him about leaving, he won't leave.” McKee said.

McKee even floated in destinations like San Jose or Anaheimnoting that quieter markets and warmer climates might appeal to him. He said a new environment could help Rielly re-establish himself away from constant scrutiny.

“So San Jose would probably rock,” McKee said. “You know, it's like, oh, I have a wife and fans, it's like, yeah, I'm sure they'd like San Jose, too. Anaheim would probably be pretty fun. Or, like, somewhere, like now, where it's hot, and the guy out of the spotlight probably wouldn't kill them.”

The discussion added to the growing fan debate over whether Toronto should entertain a blockbuster deal.

Morgan Rielly's future uncertainty is tied to the Maple Leafs' slow start

The Toronto Maple Leafs are 10-11-3 and have been inconsistent through their first 24 games. Their offense is doing well, but they are allowing 3.63 goals per game, which is near the bottom of the league. Their power play sits at just 15 percent despite a talented forward group.

Defensive breakdowns and turnovers continue to hurt them at key times. To move up in the standings, the Leafs need more stability in their own zone and a more reliable five-on-five game.

Rielly has remained productive with 18 points in 23 games while playing heavy minutes. He continues to lead the transition game and create offense, but his minus-six rating shows the team's defensive issues. Even with these issues, Rielly remains Toronto's most trusted defenseman in big situations.