With the regular season winding down and many teams set to miss the playoffs, we’re about to see a lot of “lasts” once the 82-game schedule ends—whether it’s a final game until next season, a last appearance with a current team, or even the final time a player laces up in the NHL.
Monday’s news started with Morgan Rielly discussing whether this season could be his last game with the Toronto Maple Leafs. It then led us to the Oilers, as they enter their final games of the season. We got some major injury updates on a few of their key players. Rounding out the stories for Monday brought us the retirement of long-time LA Kings star and current New York Rangers netminder Jonathan Quick.
Have We Seen The Last Of Rielly in the Blue and White?
Talk of trading Morgan Rielly has been ongoing for the past year or so, and it only grew louder after the departures of other Maple Leafs scapegoats like Jake Gardiner and, more recently, Mitch Marner. For a long time, it was little more than fan bluster—but this season, it’s taken a troubling turn.
Rielly, who hasn’t had a strong season, has certainly warranted some criticism. Now, with the speculation growing more serious, he’s been asked about the possibility that this could be his final year with the Leafs. Most recently, he addressed the topic with the team ahead of Monday’s game against Dallas, admitting the thought has crossed his mind.
As the rumours intensify, both teammates and coaches have been asked about the star defender’s potential departure. Head coach Craig Berube summed up what it means to Rielly to be a Maple Leaf in one word: “Everything.” Matthew Knies echoed that sentiment.
Rielly clearly wants to remain with the organization that drafted him 14 years ago, but nothing lasts forever. If this is his final run in Toronto, his no-move clause means he’ll ultimately control if—and where—he goes next season.
Morgan Rielly Aware Maple Leafs Home Game Could Be His Last
Oilers Get Major Injury Updates
The Oilers have had their share of bad luck with injuries down the stretch, with key contributors like Leon Draisaitl and Zach Hyman sidelined for extended periods. But with each passing practice, the timeline for their returns is becoming clearer.
Edmonton took a step in the right direction Monday, as both Draisaitl and Hyman returned to a full-team practice. They skated in grey jerseys alongside Owen Michaels on an extra line, indicating they remain non-contact participants. Neither suited up against Colorado, though Hyman could be an option for Thursday’s finale.
Meanwhile, trade deadline addition Jason Dickinson was absent once again and will miss the final game of the regular season. Head coach Kris Knoblauch also confirmed that Jones will be out three to four weeks after suffering an awkward fall in Saturday’s game.
While both Hyman and Draisaitl looked sharp during the skate, neither took part in contact or battle drills. That’s especially notable for Draisaitl, who still doesn’t have a firm timeline for his return. As it stands, it appears unlikely he’ll be ready for Game 1 of the playoffs.
Morning Skate Provides New Updates on Injured Oilers
Jonathan Quick Calls It A Career
New York Rangers goaltender Jonathan Quick announced his retirement on Monday. The three-time Stanley Cup Champion with the LA Kings and Vegas Golden Knights says goodbye to the NHL after an amazing 19-year career. Quick, who was drafted by the Kings in the third round of the 2005 NHL Draft, left his mark on the league he called home for over a decade.
Quick won the Conn Smythe Trophy in the 2011-12 season and also added two William M. Jennings Trophies career accolades. He also finished 12th all-time among goaltenders in wins, with a career 0.910 SA% and a 2.52 GAA. For a player of his caliber to hang up his skates brought many tributes from around the hockey world. With any analysts like Ray Ferraro posting to X, “Hall of Fame career….all the best in retirement to Jonathan Quick.”
Yesterday’s game against the Panthers provided a proper send-off for the legendary goaltender. With the entire Panthers team waiting to shake the goalie’s hand and congratulate him on a great career. Quick bought many great moments for the hockey world and will more than likely be in a Hall of Fame ceremony at some point down the line.
Flyers vs Penguins
The Philadelphia Flyers clinched a playoff spot and will play the Pittsburgh Penguins. Not only is the rivalry back, but these are two teams few expected to make the playoffs this season. Per source the NHL is expected to announce its Stanley Cup playoff schedule on Thursday.
The Penguins will likely play the Flyers in game 1 in Pittsburgh on Saturday or Sunday or possibly though unlikely Monday.
Sabres Win the Atlantic Division
The Buffalo Sabres have won the Atlantic Division and locked up home-ice advantage for the first two rounds of the playoffs. They now await their first-round opponent, but it will be either Boston or Ottawa.
This is their first division title in 16 years after ending a 14-year playoff drought. Once last in the East, they surged to the NHL’s best record since December and now enter the playoffs with home-ice advantage.
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