The Toronto Maple Leafs appear headed toward a significant offseason shift after a disappointing campaign that has them near the bottom of the Atlantic Division and missing the playoffs for the first time in years.
With change looming, league chatter suggests the franchise may need to absorb a major financial hit to officially begin a retool.
Why a Toronto Maple Leafs Retool Could Cost $15 Million
Toronto already started reshaping its front office by parting ways with general manager Brad Treliving earlier this week. Keith Pelley, president and CEO of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, indicated the organization is leaning toward a retool rather than a full rebuild, meaning roster adjustments could follow.
One name at the center of speculation is veteran defenseman Morgan Rielly. The longtime blueliner is in the fourth year of an eight-year, $60 million contract and holds a full no-movement clause through the 2027-28 season, complicating any potential move.
Rielly’s season has fueled the discussion. He has recorded 35 points in 72 games, with a minus-15 rating, and his defensive struggles have led to growing trade chatter.
NHL insider Nick Kypreos suggested the possibility that change could come quickly. “Even without a GM in place, you have to wonder if the next half dozen games could be Morgan Reilly’s last as a Maple Leaf. It’s no secret that a plan to re-tool will likely include some shake-up to Toronto’s blue line,” Kypreos said.
With interim leadership from Ryan Hardy and Brandon Pridham, the Maple Leafs could still explore options to move their longest-tenured player. A buyout is unlikely given the term remaining on his contract, leaving a trade as the more realistic option if Rielly is willing to waive his clause.
However, such a move may come at a steep cost. “For that to happen, the Maple Leafs may need to retain as much as 50 percent of the $7.5 million AAV he has, and throw in a draft pick sweetener,” Kypreos added.
Retaining half the salary over the remaining years would amount to roughly a $15 million commitment, even after moving the player.
Despite the challenges, several teams reportedly still view Rielly as a capable defenseman who could benefit from a change of scenery.
Whether the Maple Leafs decide to absorb that financial hit remains to be seen, but the situation underscores how complicated a retool could become. For now, Toronto shifts focus back to the ice, with a matchup against the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday as the season winds down.
