A western team is now being linked to Morgan Rielly
Hockey Patrol has no direct affiliation to the Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL or NHLPA
Photo credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
According to HockeyBuzz’s sources, the San Jose Sharks have reportedly reached out to the Toronto Maple Leafs regarding Morgan Rielly as trade rumours heat up.
The team can certainly find themselves a huge haul, but they may also be able to get their hands off of something that could be holding them back in a big way.
Sharks have serious interest in Morgan Rielly: Report
According to Jay T from HockeyBuzz, a source close to him revealed that the San Jose Sharks were looking at Morgan Rielly as a potential trade target as they only have two defenders signed for next season and could use a veteran puck-mover.
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.
For context, the same writer also has previously reported on moves regarding Mark Giordano and Matt Murray; both of whom became Maple Leafs eventually.
Why it makes sense for Rielly and San Jose to come together
It does make sense as to why Rielly and the Sharks would be a good fit.
First off, the Sharks are adding a veteran puck-mover who has a ton of playoff experience and could give Macklin Celebrini and the other rookies a stable presence who’s been through it all.
Secondly, it also reunites Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau with Rielly, as the two work within the organization. Who better to know how Rielly can contribute than two players who were right next to him? San Jose clearly trusts their two icons and their voices have a lot of pull.
But it also gives Toronto a fresh start without Rielly and his massive contract, and it would give them more than enough money to splurge on someone like a Dougie Hamilton or perhaps find a premium free agent.
That alone would give Toronto a true breath of fresh air as it would be one of the final pieces of a bygone era and a chance to bring in someone who is not only better defensively but can pull their weight offensively like the team needs.
So while Morgan Rielly has been a staunch loyalist and dealt with his fair share of criticism yet always smiling through it, there may be a team who has a lot of interest with a deal that may be too good to pass up.
Previously on Hockey Patrol
POLL
21 MINUTES AGO|13 ANSWERS
A western team is now being linked to Morgan Rielly
Should Morgan Rielly be traded or should the Maple Leafs keep him?