Performance Decline
Morgan Rielly's production has slipped sharply over the last two seasons. In 2023‑24 he recorded 58 points, but that number fell to just 36 in 2024‑25, marking one of the steepest drops among regulars. His ice time has also been trimmed to its lowest level since the 2014‑15 campaign, and advanced metrics place him 107th in On‑Ice Goals Percentage among defensemen for the 2025‑26 season.
Contract Situation
The Maple Leafs still owe Rielly four years and $22 million on his existing deal, a sizable commitment that complicates any move. General manager Brad Treliving and senior adviser John Chayka have both been spotted in recent meetings discussing the financial and competitive implications of retaining the veteran.
Rielly's agent, J.P. Barry, previously represented Maple Leafs legend Mats Sundin, giving the former captain a direct line to the front office. Sundin's potential involvement could sway the club's willingness to grant a waiver of the no‑movement clause, especially if he believes the team can rebuild around younger talent.
New management, including Mats Sundin, is reportedly weighing whether to give Rielly another year to prove himself or to push for a trade before the clause can be activated. The discussion involves not only the coaching staff but also senior hockey operations figures such as Darren Dreger, who has been vocal about the need for roster flexibility.
Even with Rielly's contract looming, the Leafs remain focused on core stars like Auston Matthews, while depth players such as Carlo Colaiacovo and Aaron Korolnek continue to battle for ice time. Analyst Darren Dreger has noted that the team's defensive core must evolve, and Rielly's diminishing role may force a reassessment.
Advanced analytics platform MoneyPuck has highlighted the drop in Rielly's on‑ice impact, suggesting that the club's defensive efficiency could improve if the veteran is moved. The data, cited by TSN analyst Darren Dreger, underscores the urgency of the decision as the offseason approaches.