Quoting: Sign_em_up000000
100% we need to add grit but we also need it to come from within and I don't see that happening anytime soon.
I also agree on your goaltending take. It doesn't make sense to extend a goalie on the wrong side of 30 who has had back and groin injuries in the past plus such a heavy workload. To me it's a recipe for disaster. That being said, I would look to trade Andersen this offseason and sign a FA. Not sure if it's true but I heard a rumour I believe it was Lebrun but don't quote me who said CGY offered Dubas their 1st+Bennett+ Ritich and Dubas said no because he wasn't sold on a Ritich/Campbell tandem?!?... I would have taken that deal all day long.
I know trading Rielly won't make us better but he has 2 yearz left at a very affordable contract making him extremely valuable to other teams and we likely can't afford his next contract so I would rather be proactive and at least explore what we could get for him rather than letting him walk for nothing as we've already done that too many times. I know Sandin needs to take another step forward but maybe we get a cheaper LHD come back as part of the package or sign someone through FA on the short term or just let Muzzin/Dermott/Sandin take the reigns and see how they do seems how we won't be competing for a cup anytime soon anyways.
Rittich: I think he has mostly proven that he's a decent NHL backup but not a great starting goalie in this league. He was NOT able roll off 7-8 wins during the season behind what I would consider is a better defense core than Toronto's. He would be horrendous IMO behind the Leafs D core.
So really... not a good option IMO.
As far as trading Rielly goes, look I'm not against trading him but the Leafs window to win is between now and the end of Matthews' contract. I just don't see how this team and organization moves forward having success by trading Rielly. Dermott and Sandin are not at the level where the Leafs need them to be. Not saying they won't get there but it's not happening overnight.
There's just no sexy move to be made that's instantly going to make this D core improved big time (unless Dubas changes his mind on Marner/Nylander and signs Pietrangelo). The simple move is to sign a combination of DeMelo, Gudas, Braun, or other under-the-radar D man to upgrade the right side.
As soon as you trade Rielly, you will be looking for a D who can eat up ice time like he does.