In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Toronto Maple Leafs may have a hard time convincing a “loyal” Morgan Rielly to waive his no-trade clause. Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens confirm they were chasing multiple big trades at the deadline. The Leafs and New Jersey Devils are zeroing in on a rising executive for their GM openings, and the Edmonton Oilers got potentially good news on the Connor Ingram injury.
As GM searches continue and teams do their homework on possible offseason blockbusters, injuries, and seedings are starting to reshape the first round of the 2026 NHL playoffs.
Maple Leafs Facing Big Decision on Morgan Rielly
Rielly’s future in Toronto is suddenly under the microscope following one of the toughest seasons of his career. Despite the struggles, the veteran defenceman made it clear he still wants to remain with the Leafs, citing loyalty to the organization.
But, it’s unclear how loyal the Maple Leafs will be to him.
Joshua Kloke of The Athletic writes:
“We’ll see whether the Leafs and Rielly will indeed stick together as an offseason of change soon begins. I asked Rielly what gives him confidence that the same kind of conversation won’t be happening a year from now. “That’s a possibility,” he admitted.”
source – ‘Why Morgan Rielly still sees a future with the Maple Leafs: ‘Loyalty’’ – Joshua Kloke – The Athletic – 04/09/2026
With four years left on his deal and a full no-movement clause, the possibility of being asked to waive it is real—something Rielly admits he has thought about before. The uncertainty surrounding Toronto’s front office only adds to the speculation.
Related: NHL Rumors: Devils’ Big Decisions, Ovechkin’s Future, Islanders Make Move
While Rielly’s offensive production remains solid, his defensive play has drawn criticism, making him a focal point in discussions about roster changes. Still, he believes in his ability to rebound and wants to be part of whatever comes next for the organization.
Canadiens Confirm Push for Blockbuster Trades
Over in Montreal, Kent Hughes has confirmed what many suspected: the Canadiens were actively pursuing multiple significant trades ahead of the deadline.
While a guest on The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro, Hughes explained that the team explored more than one potential deal but ultimately couldn’t get anything across the finish line. In some cases, the asking price was too high, while in others, the Canadiens just ran out of time.
Hughes emphasized that the goal wasn’t just to improve short-term results, but to build something sustainable, and he looked at both players on expiring and non-expiring contracts. He also noted that the organization may revisit some of those discussions this offseason, especially as they gather more information about their roster.
Leafs, Devils Target Sunny Mehta for GM Role
The search for a new general manager in Toronto is heating up, and one name gaining serious traction is Sunny Mehta, AGM of the Florida Panthers.
According to Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic, both the Leafs and Devils have received permission to speak with Mehta, whose analytics-driven background is drawing significant interest around the league. Insiders suggest Toronto’s interest is legitimate, while New Jersey’s familiarity with Mehta—through ownership connections—could make them a strong contender as well.
LeBrun writes:
“…according to league sources, that both the New Jersey Devils and Toronto Maple Leafs have asked and received permission from the Panthers to speak with assistant general manager Sunny Mehta, whose name has been all the rage of late, especially in the Toronto market. As head of analytics for the Cup champs, his background fits a big part of the profile for both the Devils and Leafs.”
source – ‘NHL rumblings: Maple Leafs, Devils receive permission to talk to Panthers AGM Sunny Mehta’ – Pierre LeBrun – The Athletic – 04/09/2026
There’s a growing sense that Mehta won’t remain in his current role for long and could land a GM job before the offseason is fully underway. There is also talk that Panthers assistant GM Brett Peterson is getting interest out of Florida.
Oilers Monitoring Goaltending Situation
Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers are dealing with a smaller but still notable concern in goal. Head coach Kris Knoblauch provided an update on Connor Ingram, who left Wednesday’s game against the San Jose Sharks due to discomfort late in the second period.
According to Knoblauch, Ingram was evaluated, and it was decided he shouldn’t return for the third period. While there’s no further update yet, the situation is worth monitoring as the Oilers look to maintain stability in net. It is believed that, had this been a playoff game or the Oilers weren’t up 5-2, Ingram might have returned to action.
