Could Morgan Rielly Waive His No-Move Clause for San Jose?
Recent speculation suggests that defenseman Morgan Rielly might consider waiving his no-move clause, with San Jose being mentioned as a potential destination. However, this scenario is being met with skepticism, as it may not align with the San Jose Sharks’ current objective of making the playoffs. While the Sharks were close to a playoff spot last season, acquiring a player like Rielly at his reported salary might be a questionable move for their rebuilding efforts.
The presence of Rielly’s no-move clause significantly limits the Toronto Maple Leafs’ options in any potential trade. He essentially controls where he is willing to go. While rumors from reputable sources like Chris Johnston indicate some activity, the likelihood of a Rielly trade to San Jose appears to be diminishing, despite the Sharks possessing assets. Time will tell if General Manager Mike Grier can find a way to improve the Sharks’ roster without depleting their quality assets.
Toronto Maple Leafs’ Urgent Need for Defensive Reinforcements
It’s an open secret that the Toronto Maple Leafs are actively seeking to acquire a younger, puck-moving defenseman. This need is well-known to insiders like John Chayka and the wider NHL community. The market for such defensemen is highly competitive, with names like Jake Walman, Adam Fox, and Dougie Hamilton appearing on potential wish lists.
The acquisition of these players presents significant challenges. Walman possesses a no-move clause and a new contract starting at $7.1 million AAV on July 1st. Fox would command a substantial trade cost, and Hamilton, while a proven defenseman, is not getting any younger and carries a hefty $9 million cap hit. The Maple Leafs might consider a swing on a player like Darren Raddysh, though questions remain about his true potential versus being a product of a strong system.
Ultimately, Toronto’s decision-making will hinge on whether they believe last season’s defensive struggles were an anomaly. Other potential targets include Vince Dunn, who has one year remaining on his contract. Acquiring Brandt Clarke would involve significant risk, and Rasmus Andersson might also become available. While the options are plentiful, the Maple Leafs must proceed with caution.
English Translation:
Would Morgan Rielly Really Waive to go to San Jose?
Once more, this is a case of pouring some cool water on this for now. The thought process lies in the fact that this may not make much sense for San Jose. The Sharks are trying to make the playoffs. San Jose was on the bubble for the waning stretches of the regular season. Ultimately, they missed out but San Jose remained close. Does upgrading the defense justify spending this much for Morgan Rielly?
While the bigger rumor mill guys like Chris Johnston and others portray some smoke here, is there any fire? Remember, Rielly is on the top of a lot of trade lists or close. He also has the dreaded NMC (no-move clause). Bluntly, the defenseman controls where he wants to go. Toronto, no matter who is running the show and has to get his approval on a deal. Now, that limits the options considerably.
The Rielly to San Jose rumor, I think, is blowing in a direction of where does he go. However, it is looking less likely to be San Jose by the day. This can always change. However, San Jose does have assets and the hope is that maybe Grier sweetens the pot a different way without giving up much in quality. Time will tell here.
Toronto Desperately Seeking Defensemen
Again, it is no secret that the Maple Leafs are trying to acquire a younger, puck-moving defenseman. John Chayka knows it but so does everyone else. These defensemen are going to come at an immense premium. Options rank from Jake Walman to Adam Fox all the way to Dougie Hamilton. Plenty of names are out there.
Here is where it gets dicey. Walman has a NMC and new deal that kicks in on July 1st at $7.1 million AAV. Fox commands a large acquisition cost, and Hamilton is not getting younger with that $9 million price tag. Does one take a swing at a player like Darren Raddysh? Is Raddysh more a system player or is he that good?
Finally, does Toronto believe that last year was truly an aberration? That will play a role here. Vince Dunn is a player who makes sense here too with only one year left on his deal. Brandt Clarke would involve taking quite a risk and Rasmus Andersson might be out there too. Again, choices are plentiful but buyer beware.
