The NHL trade deadline has come and gone, but the speculation around potential deals involving the Toronto Maple Leafs and Edmonton Oilers continues to swirl. With both teams looking to reshape their rosters, a potential trade involving two defensemen, Morgan Rielly and Darnell Nurse, has been a topic of interest. The deal, which was discussed by insider David Pagnotta, would have seen Nurse head to Toronto, with Nic Roy and Morgan Rielly heading to Edmonton. However, the trade did not materialize, and both players remain with their respective teams.
The Maple Leafs, in particular, are looking to make changes, with GM John Chayka aiming to move Brandon Carlo. The 29-year-old is entering the final year of his contract, making him a potential trade asset. The Oilers, on the other hand, are interested in acquiring a center, and Rielly could be a target. However, the high cap hit of Nurse ($9.25 million) may be a barrier to a trade with the Maple Leafs.
The Oilers have several balls in the air, and their focus may be on finding a new coach. They are also looking to dump Nurse's contract, which could be a challenge. The Maple Leafs, meanwhile, are also in a position of transition, with Carlo's future uncertain. The Oilers may look to acquire Carlo instead of Rielly, as he has a lower cap hit and a three-team no-move clause, making him a more feasible trade option.
The potential trade between the Maple Leafs and Oilers raises questions about the future of both teams. The Oilers are in a position of strength, with a potential new coach and a desire to reshape their roster. The Maple Leafs, meanwhile, are looking to move on from some of their older players and build for the future. The trade deadline may have come and gone, but the speculation around these teams continues, with the possibility of a major move on the horizon.
