NHL Trade Rumor: Toronto Maple Leafs could move $60 million defenseman Morgan Rielly before 2026-27 season
The Toronto Maple Leafs have not revealed what the next move for Morgan Rielly is, but credible NHL insiders are reporting that a trade could occur prior to the 2026-27 season. The veteran defenseman is still one of the biggest names connected to offseason movement.Rielly is still under contract with Toronto, and any trade would require his approval because of his full no-movement clause. However, recent reports suggest the organization is still considering trade scenarios, and expects a big return if a deal is struck.
Morgan Rielly and Toronto Maple Leafs NHL trade rumors latest updates
Latest word is that league insiders still believe Morgan Rielly is likely to be traded before the 2026-27 NHL season, though no deal appears close.He still thinks the expectation around the league is that Toronto will eventually move Rielly, NHL insider Chris Johnston said recently. But Johnston also was clear the reports of the defenseman already agreeing to waive his no-movement clause are false.The 32-year-old defenseman has five years left on his eight-year, $60 million contract with an annual cap hit of $7.5 million. Any potential trade would require Rielly’s approval, however, as he has a full no-movement clause.
How are Morgan Rielly and Toronto Maple Leafs trade rumors developing
NHL insider David Pagnotta has reported the Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins are among the teams interested in acquiring Morgan Rielly. The Anaheim Ducks have also been mentioned as a potential landing spot if Toronto is looking to make a trade.Reports indicate the Maple Leafs aren’t simply attempting to clear salary cap space. Instead, it is assumed management will be eager to land some tangible assets if the franchise deals one of its longest-tenured players.
Why does Morgan Rielly future matter for Toronto Maple Leafs
Morgan Rielly has played his entire NHL career with the Toronto Maple Leafs, appearing in over 950 regular-season games as one of the club’s veteran leaders. His future could also impact the defensive configuration and offseason approach for Toronto as it looks to 2026-27.There’s no confirmed timeline, but league insiders continue to refer to the situation as a matter of when, not if. Trade speculation will remain one of the biggest NHL offseason news stories as long as Rielly hasn’t made up his mind if he’d accept a trade and the Leafs haven’t received an offer they’re happy with.
