Analyst Hints Maple Leafs’ Morgan Rielly Looking for Change

Longtime Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly is struggling and in a stretch where he’s looking for more out of his game. He’s been with the Maple Leafs for 12 seasons, and according to NHL analyst Kevin Bieksa, Rielly’s confidence appears to be up and down. Bieksa thinks Rielly is wavering and that he’s looking for a change. Whether Rielly is looking for a simple change to his game, a change in playing partners, or a change of scenery remains to be seen.

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Speaking during Hockey Night in Canada, Bieksa noted an interesting change in Rielly’s game, pointing out that he has switched from using white tape on his stick. It might seem silly to point something so trivial out, but for NHL players of habit and tradition, Bieksa suggests this isn’t a small thing. Bieksa speculated that this small but notable adjustment might reflect Rielly’s search for a spark.

Of course, this isn’t the same as suggesting Rielly wants out or that he’s looking for a trade. But, what if these struggles continue?

Rielly Isn’t Necessarily Giving the Maple Leafs What They Need

Through 50 games, Rielly has recorded five goals and 17 assists. However, a -16 rating and an alarming number of giveaways (already matching last season’s total) are hard to ignore. His average ice time is at its lowest since 2014-15, and he is off the top power-play unit.

If the situation were different and the Leafs weren’t in a tight window to win, there might be more patience when it comes to Rielly. But, at 30 years old and carrying a hefty $7.5 million cap hit for the next five seasons, the Leafs need to get from him what they’re paying for. He knows it too, despite saying he’s only concerned about team wins.

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Bieksa’s segment on what’s going on with Rielly suggests this is a player who knows there’s a problem.

Rielly’s declining performance raises questions about his long-term fit in Toronto. The Leafs are in win-now mode, and recent blockbuster trades prove that no one is off the table when it comes to trade discussions. Bieksa says the Leafs have rotated several defense partners and are trying to find him someone who compliments his game. At some point, if that doesn’t work, the commonality in every combination is Rielly. If he struggles with all of his defense partners, perhaps it’s not about his defense partners.

Are the Maple Leafs the Right Fit?

Bieksa also points out that the Maple Leafs’ system under coach Craig Berube might not suit Rielly’s game.

If Rielly can’t rediscover his form and the changes he’s making don’t work, the Maple Leafs may face a difficult decision: stick with the veteran blueliner or cut ties before his struggles become an anchor on the organization.

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