Morgan Rielly trade talk keeps resurfacing, and the Leafs’ approach is becoming clearer

Toronto Maple Leafs defender Morgan Rielly has once again been discussed over his future as a Leaf, and with little surprise, the new information isn't really info at all.

Darren Dreger reports that the potential of Rielly leaving Toronto has been considered since last season, but the Leafs haven't asked the 31-year-old to potentially change his mind on being willing to be dealt.

The speculation comes further as Rielly will remain out with a re-aggrevation of a previous injury, with fans noting Toronto have now a 24-5-1 record without Rielly in the lineup since 2022-23, but something that was largely done with former Leaf Mitch Marner in the lineup.

Rielly, signed until 2030 at $7.5M annually, has a full no-move clause until 2028. Rielly, who has spent his entire 13-year NHL career as a Leaf, has expressed a desire to remain with Toronto.

There's no indication that the Leafs want Rielly to leave, and Rielly himself has stated on the record he wants to stay. But with Toronto's uncertain season, people remain talking about Rielly's future.

The future of speculation continues on Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly, even as both sides maintain that a move isn't in the work, stemming from fan concerns over if Rielly can perform as the Leafs top defenseman.

Fans have felt uncertain about Rielly's performance, having been a talking point since last season in which inconsistent performances had both fans and media speculating on how long Rielly has in Toronto.

Rielly has seven goals, 24 assists, & 31 points in 54 games this season for the Leafs, but his injury hasn't silenced critics, if anything has boosted such skepticism.

Morgan Rielly remains unlikely to be dealt, and it doesn't appear at this time a plan is in place to consider dealing Rielly, at least for this season, showing that Rielly remains as the Leafs leading blueliner.

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