The Toronto Maple Leafs have emerged as a potential landing spot for New York Rangers forward, who has recently been sidelined for trade-related reasons. According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, the Rangers aim to move Smith to an American team, which could complicate a deal with Toronto unless the veteran winger has not included the Leafs—a legitimate contender—on his eight-team no-trade list. However, the opportunity to join a Stanley Cup-caliber team might influence Smith’s decision regarding a move to Canada.
Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli believes Reilly Smith could be a great fit for Toronto, but only if they first address their biggest need: acquiring a center. “I can think of no better fit for Reilly Smith, especially if the Rangers retain half his salary, than the Maple Leafs,” Seravalli said, highlighting Smith’s role in two Stanley Cup Final runs with the Golden Knights. “He’d be a tremendous addition at a reasonable cost.”
Seravalli also noted that the Rangers could further reduce Smith’s salary since the Penguins have already retained a portion of his contract. At 33, Smith has registered 29 points (10 goals, 19 assists) in 58 games this season and currently carries a $3.75 million cap hit following the prior retention. With his contract expiring on July 1, Toronto’s limited cap space—less than $1 million—makes a trade challenging unless the Rangers retain additional salary or another player is sent the other way, which remains uncertain.