NHL News

Maple Leafs’ Morgan Rielly Changing His Priority This Season

Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Morgan Riley is seeing a downturn and his scoring statistics. Is he worried about it? What is his priority?

by
Old Prof
January 22, 2025

Recently, Morgan Rielly was asked about his difficulty producing offensively this season. As the Toronto Maple Leafs’ longest-serving blue liner and one used to putting up bigger numbers, something seems different. However, although he’s experienced a decline in his scoring statistics, he’s not that worried. Because his team is winning, he’s maintaining a broader perspective. He’s prioritizing his team’s success over his individual numbers.

The Maple Leafs D-Man is Thinking Team First

Rielly’s priority this season is the team’s success, not his offensive output. “There are more important things,” he said. Individuals are not as important as the group and picking up wins. He understands he’s being relied upon to contribute offensively, but the team’s overall development is what matters most, even if his own numbers take a bit of a hit.

He believed the Maple Leafs were well-positioned as a team. Rielly noted, “As long as that’s happening, I think we’re all going to be happy.” For him, the team’s progress is the reassurance he needs that things are going in the right direction.

For Rielly, that means adhering to the team structure. “We’re all trying to do whatever is going to help the team, and I’m no different.” He is willing to adapt his playing style, which suggests Rielly’s maturity and understanding of what it takes to win has grown this season.

Morgan Rielly lack of offense with the Maple Leafs this season has garnered attention

Rielly Is There to Support His Teammates

Rielly noted that he’s working on his game all the time, regardless of whether his contributions are offensive or defensive. He stated, “You’re always trying to improve.” He’s dedicated to supporting teammates while maximizing his effectiveness in whatever role fits within the team structure.

Rielly’s statements show how well he carries himself. He has a leader’s profound sense of professionalism and leadership. Rather than being frustrated over a decline in offensive production, he focuses on team growth and playing within the team structure.

For him, the bottom line is that while he believes his personal performance is important, it doesn’t overshadow the overall goals of the team.