NHL Trade Rumors: Maple Leafs' Morgan Rielly Open to 5 Trade Destinations

The Toronto Maple Leafs are set for some significant roster changes this summer, as general manager John Chayka tries to put his fingerprints on the team as soon as possible. This will result in the Leafs asking veteran defenceman Morgan Rielly for a list of teams he'd approve for the next chapter of his career.

All signs are pointing to Rielly and the Maple Leafs heading for a divorce this summer, and there's lots of speculation brewing online that the conversation has already taken place between Chayka and Rielly, and the Leafs' blueliner has made it clear he prefers to play in the Western Conference.

According to sources close to the team, Rielly is open to playing for the Anaheim Ducks, Los Angeles Kings, San Jose Sharks, Vancouver Canucks or Seattle Kraken. Now we wait to see if any of these teams have interest, but from all accounts the Sharks top the list, as they have only two NHL defencemen signed for next season, and they need to add salary.

Rielly's signed through the 2031 season at $7 million AAV, and he's quickly become the scapegoat for Leafs Nation these past couple of seasons. In 2025-26, Rielly was among the league leaders in goals allowed while five-on-five, and it's no secret his defensive play has steadily declined over the past few seasons.

David Pagnotta: Re Morgan Rielly/Maple Leafs: His name has been mentioned in trade discussions for the past two seasons. But it does seem like this time around we’re as close as we’ve ever been to witnessing a Rielly trade - Fourth Period (5/30)

The Maple Leafs want to reshape their blueline, that is top of mind for Chayka, and it also applies pressure to the situation when William Nylander and Auston Matthews both asked for two mobile defencemen to be added to the roster during their exit interviews.

As far as trade return goes for Rielly, don't be surprised if the Leafs settle for a mid-round draft pick and prospect in return, or try to land a bottom-six center.

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