Rumor: Seattle Kraken Linked to Toronto Maple Leafs Defenseman

According to Lyle Richardson of Bleacher Report he sees the Seattle Kraken as a major player for Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly, should Rielly hit the open market next summer.

The mobile d-man is in the final year of his contract with the Maple Leafs, making $5 million on the cap. He's going to be in line for a huge raise and there's no secret the Leafs will be in tough to get a deal done considering their cash constraints. They certainly would not be able to be anywhere close to the ball park of $9 million a season which Richardson threw out into the universe not long ago.

Rielly is 27 and is from western Canada so a move to Seattle would be ideal for family and friends. Last season he recorded 35 points in 55 games and has the ability to play in all situations. He's going to be considered for Team Canada's Olympic team which could certainly boost his market value for free agency. 

A lot could happen with Rielly this season as there's potential the Leafs could move him at the deadline instead of letting him walk out on the team, much like his old buddy Zach Hyman. We'll follow this storyline close as the season goes on. For now, the Kraken are apparently a team to watch in the Rielly sweepstakes.

Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports