Does Morgan Rielly want out in Toronto?
Photo credit: USA Today Sports
Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly is the longest-tenured Leaf and the latest playoff loss appears to be weighing heavily on him.
Rielly was drafted 5th overall back in 2012, and had to endure some of the toughest years in franchise history before finally being able to play on a Leafs team that was good enough to contend. Unfortunately, Rielly is now 30 years of age and time is running out to win a Cup.
On locker room cleanout day, Rielly was noticeably frustrated with another long summer ahead, making the following comments about the disappointing Round 1 loss to Boston.
"It's always difficult. I feel this year maybe more than ever. I think partly because of Game 7, overtime. Partly being on the ice for the [Pastrnak] goal. Partly age. Just, I think, every year gets more challenging, honestly."
Rielly also mentioned that he doesn't view the Leafs as "close" to competing for a Stanley Cup, unlike his captain, John Tavares, who re-affirmed his believe that his team is "right there".
It really doesn't seem like he's overly thrilled with how the season ended. At this point, Rielly has not come out and requested a trade yet, but depending on what the Leafs do this summer to address their many roster needs, a trade request could still be coming.
Rielly has 6 years remaining on his 8-year deal, which pays him $7.5M per season.
Previously on MapleLeafsDaily
POLL |
MAI 19 | 523 ANSWERS Does Morgan Rielly want out in Toronto? Is it time for Morgan Rielly and the Maple Leafs to part ways? |
Yes | 286 | 54.7 % |
No | 237 | 45.3 % |
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