Toronto Maple Leafs consider trades for Rielly and Knies amid upcoming draft

Defenceman Morgan Rielly has asked his agent to submit a list of four Western Conference teams he would accept in a trade, according to TSN insider Darren Dreger. Rielly, under contract through the 2029‑30 season at $7.5 million per year, is reportedly open to moves to clubs such as San Jose or Anaheim.

Forward Matthew Knies is also drawing trade interest. Insider Marco D’Amico said talks are intensifying, though General Manager John Chayka has not ruled out a deal and says a hefty return would be required. Knies is in the second year of a six‑year, $46.5 million contract and recorded 66 points in 79 games last season.

Meanwhile, the Leafs are projected to select forward Gavin McKenna with the first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. McKenna told TSN he sees himself as a playmaker who could thrive beside scorer Auston Matthews, describing the potential partnership as “pretty lethal.” The organization’s goaltending situation also remains a focus, with veteran Anthony Stolarz listed as a trade candidate despite recent roster moves.

These developments reflect the Leafs’ broader offseason strategy under new GM Chayka, who has already moved defensemen Darren Raddysh and Emil Andrae and is evaluating roster upgrades ahead of the draft.