# Toronto Maple Leafs and Pittsburgh Penguins trade rumors

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/toronto-maple-leafs-and-pittsburgh-penguins-trade-rumors
> Updated: 2026-09-21T18:17:59.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Speculation emerged regarding a potential NHL trade that would move Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Reports suggested the move was possible if Karlsson chose to waive his no-move clause, with Toronto’s Swedish connections cited as potential draws.

However, a proposed offseason trade involving a swap of Karlsson for Toronto defenseman Morgan Rielly reportedly stalled. The transaction was blocked after Rielly declined the move using his no-move clause. Following the failed trade, Maple Leafs head coach Jim Hiller stated he is providing Rielly a “clean slate” for the upcoming season.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-21: Morgan Rielly reportedly blocked trade to Pittsburgh Penguins

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly reportedly vetoed a blockbuster offseason trade to the Pittsburgh Penguins that would have involved Erik Karlsson.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/morgan-rielly-reportedly-blocked-trade-to-pittsburgh-penguins

### 2026-08-26: Erik Karlsson linked to Toronto Maple Leafs in trade rumors

NHL trade rumors link Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson to the Toronto Maple Leafs, potentially driven by Karlsson's no-move clause and Toronto's strong Swedish connections.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/erik-karlsson-linked-to-toronto-maple-leafs-in-trade-rumors

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Cite as: Toronto Maple Leafs and Pittsburgh Penguins trade rumors. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/toronto-maple-leafs-and-pittsburgh-penguins-trade-rumors