Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly showed an unselfish team first approach by volunteering to play right defense. His typical position is defending the left side of the ice so this would be an adjustment for him. Defending the NHL's best is already a weighty responsibility. Defending the opposite side of the ice and trying to keep pucks in the offensive zone on your backhand is certainly more challenging. Reilly is saying he is up for the task though.
This is a class act by Rielly who has been a rock solid top four defenseman for the past nine seasons. Rielly has logged a ton of ice time over the years and has been relied upon in all situations for Toronto. Reilly's comments are meaningful because Toronto already has more lefthanded defenseman opposed to right-handed. Morgan Rielly, Mark Giordano, TJ Brodie, Rasmus Sandin, and Jake Muzzin all shoot left so naturally their preferred position would be the left side.
Only Timothy Liljegren and Justin Holl shoot right. Reilly's commitment to the team can not be understated and his willingness to be flexible and change sides is a sign of his veteran leadership. Should Toronto follow through with this switch, it gives them other options and pairings to choose from. Perhaps Toronto will try several pairs in the preseason to determine which pairs they like best.
Ever since joining the Maple Leafs, Rielly has shown exemplary leadership skills. When the Maple Leafs signed John Tavares there were many who felt Rielly should have been the captain of the team. With continued displays of leadership like this, maybe Rielly will someday receive the consideration he deserves.
