Leafs weigh Gudas signing against Rielly trade options

Radko Gudas told agents he remains open to anything, including Toronto, as the Leafs field multiple calls on Morgan Rielly’s willingness to waive his no-move clause.

Gudas contract parameters versus cap flexibility

The Anaheim Ducks pending UFA defenseman could command a two- or three-year contract between $3.5 million and $4 million annually according to Kevin Weekes. That range fits inside Toronto’s projected remaining cap space after retaining core pieces. Florida and Toronto sit atop the list of potential landing spots because both clubs need a right-shot physical presence on the third pair. Gudas recorded 22 points and 92 penalty minutes in 82 games last season, numbers that align with the style the Leafs have sought since the 2024-25 season.

Dave McCarthy directly checked Gudas interest in Toronto. The player’s response stayed noncommittal yet receptive, leaving the door open for negotiations once free agency opens July 1. In contrast, the Leafs previously committed $4.5 million to a different veteran blueliner last summer; that earlier signing produced only 14 points and finished minus-8, prompting the front office to seek a lower-cost alternative this cycle.

Rielly trade process remains case-by-case

David Pagnotta confirmed on The Fourth Period that teams continue to call about Morgan Rielly. The defenseman appears willing to waive his no-move clause for select destinations, yet the Leafs retain final say over which offers reach his camp. Pagnotta described the process as strictly case-by-case, with Toronto already identifying a short list of acceptable clubs. A potential package could include a first-round pick and a prospect, mirroring the haul Montreal reportedly discussed for another restricted free agent earlier this month.

The Leafs front office must weigh Rielly’s 52 points from the prior season against the $7.5 million cap hit that would accompany any extension. Retaining him blocks additional moves at the blue line, while moving him creates immediate space for both Gudas and internal promotions. Multiple organizations have expressed interest, yet only offers involving high-value assets will be presented to Rielly for approval.

Roster ripple effects extend beyond the blue line

Interest in Matthew Knies remains active as well, with Pagnotta noting the Leafs hope to extract a return exceeding the Canadiens’ previous deadline proposal. Any Rielly transaction would accelerate those parallel conversations because the resulting cap flexibility could fund extensions or further acquisitions. The new regime under Chayka has circled back on several pending assets, signaling a broader reset rather than isolated tweaks.

Toronto’s approach contrasts with Detroit’s handling of similar veteran contracts, where recent trades prioritized draft capital over immediate roster balance. The Leafs instead appear focused on pairing a short-term Gudas addition with longer-term internal development. That dual-track strategy limits downside risk while testing the true market value of a 13-year veteran who still logs top-pair minutes.

Radko Gudas would likely sign a two-year pact worth $7.5 million total to stabilize the third pair if the Leafs complete a Rielly deal by the July 1 free-agency window.