Maple Leafs Not Trading Knies and Rielly, But Defenseman Likely to Be Moved

The Toronto Maple Leafs have elected not to trade Morgan Rielly and Matthews Knies, according to recent reports. However, it appears the organization is actively trying to move another defenseman. That defenseman is veteran Brandon Carlo.

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As per new GM John Chyaka, it is unlikely Rielly is dealt as the NHL Draft approaches on Friday. He was open to a trade if it were to one of four Western Conference teams, but Chayka said he anticipates that Morgan Rielly will be on the team. New head coach Jim Hiller has been in touch and is excited to work with Rielly. When asked if he expects a trade in the next few hours. “I don’t think so. As I stand here today. No,” Chayka said. “But, again, those are the discussions we’ll continue to have.”

He added, “It’s a great relationship. We’ve had great discussions. He loves being a Toronto Maple Leaf and we certainly think he’s a great player.”

Meanwhile, Andy Strickland reports that Matthew Knies is expected to remain a Leaf in Toronto. The price tag to get him is extremely high. Chayka has made it clear to Knies that they haven’t engaged in any talks that would have them close to trading him.

What About Brandon Carlo?

One player who could be moved is defenseman Brandon Carlo. After Darren Raddysh was acquired and signed long-term, Carlo became fully available; they’ve been in talks about him since last week, and it seems those talks are starting to pick up. Carlo’s cap hit is just a shade under $3.5 million. There should be teams that see him as an option, even though his injury history is a concern.

Other teams see him as a big body that doesn’t use it very often and he’s not a physical player. It’s hard to know what the return would be. At this point, it might not be a concern for the Maple Leafs to get much back. They may just be interested in moving on. The ask at this point in time is multiple mid-range picks at most.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Jets, Canes, Maple Leafs & PP Remakes