NHL Trade Rumors: Former NHL Players Proposes Maple Leafs & Penguins Blockbuster

Monday, August 25, 2025 ,
Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly reacts during 2025 game.

Former Toronto Maple Leafs forward Jay Rosehill would gladly see the team acquire veteran defenseman Erik Karlsson in a blockbuster swap. 

Speaking on the Leafs Morning Take podcast, Rosehill reacted to a mock trade proposal sending Leafs blueliner Morgan Rielly and forward Nick Robertson to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for the three-time Norris Trophy winner.

Former Leafs Player Backs Karlsson Trade Proposal

Rosehill explained that Robertson, 23, “doesn’t fit anywhere” in the Leafs’ lineup, while Rielly’s performance has plateaued despite a $7.5 million cap hit. “To get the upside of Erik Karlsson, a guy who can quarterback your power play and do everything he’s done in the past - that would be a great deal,” Rosehill added. While enthusiastic, he admitted it feels like a “pipe dream” given the difficulty of moving Rielly’s long-term contract and Robertson’s potential.

Karlsson Could Transform Toronto’s Power Play

Karlsson, 35, is in the final two years of an eight-year, $92 million contract with the Penguins. He recorded 11 goals and 42 assists in 82 games last season and remains an offensive presence. 

Former Leafs defenseman Carlo Colaiacovo also supports the idea, noting that Karlsson could immediately quarterback Toronto’s power-play unit and help replace points lost with Mitch Marner’s departure.

Despite Rosehill’s support, there are still a lot of question marks. Rielly likely wouldn’t waive his no-movement clause, making the trade unlikely. Still, the idea of Karlsson bringing all his offensive traits to Toronto’s blueline is an enticing prospect for a team looking to boost its offense and playoff ceiling.

Photo Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

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