In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Toronto Maple Leafs are officially out of the playoff mix, which will shift the conversation directly to roster, coaching, and management changes. What’s the latest on trade speculation and their GM search? Speculation continues over Morgan Rielly’s future with the Leafs and more. Meanwhile, Brady Tkachuk is clarifying a podcast controversy involving his father. How will his response sit with teammates?
With teams falling out of the playoff race and others securing their spots, there are more conversations shifting to offseason strategy.
Maple Leafs Trade Speculation: Matthew Knies Still in the Spotlight
Nick Kypreos is reporting that Matthew Knies’ name continues to circulate in trade discussions long after the March 6 trade deadline, despite the departure of GM Brad Treliving. Sources say Toronto had set high asks under Treliving, including options such as two first-round picks plus a high-end prospect, one first-round pick with two top prospects, or three high-end prospects.
Teams like Montreal and Chicago were reportedly interested, but the timing made it hard to pull off a deadline deal. Considering the size of Toronto’s asks and the short window to make the trade, talks got pushed. However, even with Treliving gone, talks aren’t deal and the next Leafs GM will have a decision to make: restart trade talks and potentially move Knies, or reassure him he is part of the team’s retooling plan.
Meanwhile, the search for a president/GM continues, with Chris Pronger reportedly already in contact regarding the role. Pierre LeBrun added that the Maple Leafs have explored multiple options for their GM search and potential trade targets.
Morgan Rielly’s Future in Question
Another player that will inevitably generate trade interest, even without a GM in place, is Morgan Rielly. The Maple Leafs are facing questions about their long-time defenseman. As the team considers a retool, industry insiders suggest the next half-dozen games could determine if Rielly remains in Toronto.
Related: Streaking Canadiens on Verge of Transforming into Legit Contenders
Rielly has four years left on his $7.5 million AAV contract and a no-movement clause for the next two seasons. Any trade would likely require him to waive that clause, and the Leafs may need to retain up to 50% of his salary and sweeten the deal with draft picks.
Despite the uncertainty, many NHL teams still see Rielly as a capable player who could thrive in a new environment. It will be fascinating to see how much trade interest there is in the player.
Brady Tkachuk Clarifies Podcast Controversy
Brady Tkachuk addressed the fallout from his father Keith Tkachuk’s recent podcast comments, which many interpreted as a jab at the Ottawa Senators and goalie Linus Ullmark. The interview, part of the Wingmen podcast, included Keith Tkachuk criticizing players who rely on rest and load management.
Brady said the comments were misunderstood. “After watching it back, I thought it was pretty clear he was talking about Florida,” he said. “People take things and twist them, and there’s not much I can do about that.”
He contended that his father’s words came from a good place and that he fully respects him as his dad and a Hall of Famer, refusing to put words in Keith Tkachuk’s mouth. Of course, there are fans who watched Brady’s comments and remain steadfast in their belief he should be defending his teammates, not his dad.
Canadiens Failed Trades
Industry insiders like Darren Dreger and Pierre LeBrun both reported that the Sabres and Canadiens were active at the deadline, but missed on a few swings.
For the Canadiens, LeBrun noted they tried on players like Connor Murphy and Rasmus Ristolainen but sometimes the best trades are the ones that don’t happen, especially given the prices involved.
