Before diving into the latest development, I want to be clear: I did not start writing about hockey to peddle baseless rumors. Historically, my reporting has been strictly tied to the Ottawa Senators via a reliable source within the organization. While I don’t aim to operate the rumor mill like Eklund, legitimate intel occasionally crosses my desk that is too significant to ignore.
If you have followed me on X (@JayOnLeafs) or my other platforms over the years, you know my track record. I was the first to report Matt Murray to the Leafs, the Mark Giordano acquisition and his team-friendly extension, William Nylander seeking $10 million+ AAV as a free agent, and the hard line Brad Treliving drew with Morgan Rielly last summer.
All of those reports originated from one reliable source. Now, that same source has provided a major update regarding Morgan Rielly.
The Maple Leafs’ Retool Strategy
As the Toronto Maple Leafs head toward the NHL Trade Deadline, the franchise is entering a pivotal retool. Management needs to make tangible changes without derailing their long-term trajectory or their hopes of a playoff return next season.
Fortunately, the Leafs possess valuable trade assets in Scott Laughton, Bobby McMann, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson. But as focus shifts to these potential deals, Morgan Rielly’s name has quietly crept into the conversation.
The Rumor: Sharks Circling Rielly
Rielly has admittedly struggled this year, enduring perhaps his worst season as a Maple Leaf. Despite this, several franchises still view the veteran defenseman as a high-value asset within the right system.
One of those teams is the San Jose Sharks. According to my source, the Sharks have formally expressed interest in Rielly to the Leafs organization. The request was to circle back when Toronto is ready to pull the trigger on moving the defender. It is my understanding that, at this time, no specific names have been exchanged, and Rielly has not yet been approached regarding a potential move. However, in the NHL, situations remain fluid.
Why the Fit Makes Sense
The connection runs deep. With Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau currently working within the Sharks organization, San Jose has an inside look from Rielly’s former teammates who understand his character and leadership.
The on-ice fit could be seamless. San Jose is looking to build a more mobile defense core, clear contract spots, and provide veteran stability for Macklin Celebrini. This is a role Rielly is tailor-made for.
With the NHL Olympic Roster Freeze currently in effect, both front offices have time to let a potential deal marinate.
This trade could be a massive win-win: the Leafs get a necessary fresh start on their blue line, and the Sharks acquire the veteran presence they desperately need. While a deal making sense on paper doesn’t guarantee it will happen in today’s NHL, this is a situation worth monitoring closely.