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11 hours ago
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The Toronto Maple Leafs are entering the off-season with multiple trade candidates. Among their most notable ones is defenseman Morgan Rielly, as there is an expectation that the Maple Leafs will make him available this summer.
While Rielly had a tough 2025-26 season, he will likely generate interest. He is still a solid defenseman and could always bounce back if given a much-needed change of scenery.
Because of this, let’s look at three teams that could look to acquire Rielly during the off-season.
San Jose Sharks
The Sharks would make a lot of sense as a suitor for Rielly this summer. They desperately need to improve their blueline, and they have several pending unrestricted free agent defensemen. Due to this, it would be entirely understandable if they had a defenseman like Rielly on their radar.
If acquired, Rielly could slot nicely on their top pairing and would be a clear candidate for power-play time. He would also be a good mentor for the Sharks’ young players as they look to take the next step and become a playoff team next year.
MORE: 3 Maple Leafs NHL defense targets to bolster their blueline
Detroit Red Wings
The Red Wings could be another team to watch when it comes to Rielly. When looking at their defensive group, it is clear that their left side could use a boost. The Red Wings also have plenty of cap space to work with, so they could afford Rielly’s $7.5 million cap hit with ease.
If the Red Wings landed Rielly, he would give them another option to consider for their top pairing with Moritz Seider. Yet, even if Rielly played on their second pairing with Justin Faulk, he would certainly improve the Red Wings’ blueline. With Detroit looking to snap its 10-year playoff drought, they are in a position to make a bold trade for a high-impact defenseman like Rielly.
MORE: 3 teams that could trade for Red Wings goaltender Sebastian Cossa
Los Angeles Kings
While the Kings’ greatest need is a new first-line center with Anze Kopitar retiring, they should also be open to adding to their defense this summer. With the Kings needing another top-four defenseman for their left side, a player like Rielly could make sense for them to bring in.
If Rielly bounced back in Los Angeles and got his offense going again, he would be a major pickup for a Kings club that needs more production. When looking at the Kings’ current roster, Rielly could work well on their second pairing with Brandt Clarke if acquired.
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