Rumor: Maple Leafs to Make Blockbuster Trade this Offseason

The Leafs have a lot of defensive depth, especially on the left side, and with Rielly's contract expiring after next season, some Leafs insiders believe Rielly will be traded for a power forward. The veteran defenseman struggled in the playoffs, and the Leafs are in desperate need of a second line centre to complement William Nylander and John Tavares.

Meanwhile, the organisation has long-term contracts with Jake Muzzin and TJ Brodie, as well as teenager Rasmus Sandin, who is seeking for increased playing time next season, including on the power play, in Rielly's place. The Leafs have depth options without Rielly with these three, as well as Justin Holl, Travis Dermott, Timothy Liljegren, and the probable return of Zach Bogosian. The veteran defenseman is protected by a 10-team no-trade clause and has some say over his future.

The Maple Leafs would be looking for an established power forward with a killing instinct and offensive punch to add to the team's second line if they moved Rielly. A player with Brady Tkachuk's makeup would be ideal for the Maple Leafs if they could clone him from the Ottawa Senators.

A Maple Leafs blockbuster, according to hockey analyst Chris Johnston, is unavoidable. Johnston recently stated on the Steve Dangle Podcast that he believes there will be one new player on the squad who will have everyone talking come opening night. The Leafs don't have the cap space to sign what they need, so if talent comes in, talent has to go out. Expect a trade, and it'll almost certainly be a blockbuster, with Morgan Rielly on his way out of town.

Credit: NHLTradeRumours