Toronto Maple Leafs Part Ways with Brendan Shanahan
Photo credit: Imagn Images
Just moments ago, it was announced that the Toronto Maple Leafs had parted ways with their Team President, Brendan Shanahan, after a brutal playoff exit.
Minutes ago, the Maple Leafs organization confirmed as much in a letter to the fans. This letter included a statement from
MLSE CEO Keith Pelley.«Over the past 11 seasons, Brendan Shanahan has made countless contributions to the Toronto Maple Leafs on the ice, off the ice and in the community,» said MLSE President & CEO Keith Pelley. «Brendan is one of the most respected leaders in the game and he has instilled many of the traits that were the signature of his Hall of Fame career throughout the organization, uniting this storied franchise in the 'Honour, Pride and Courage' that it was founded on. Our responsibility and driving motivation, however, is to add a new chapter to the Maple Leafs' championship history, and it was determined that a new voice was required to take the team to the next level in the years ahead. The franchise will be forever grateful for Brendan's contributions and wish him and his family every success and happiness in the future.»
While Shanahan is not being explicitly fired, he is not getting his contract renewed. Essentially, the Leafs are telling him that he didn't do a good enough job to come back next season.
The last 11 years under Shanahan have certainly been difficult, as the franchise has not been able to make it out of the second round of the NHL Playoffs.
After a Game 7 loss to the Florida Panthers on Sunday, ownership clearly decided that enough was enough.
What's next for the Toronto Maple Leafs?
It seems unlikely that the Leafs will hire another President. If anything, Brad Treliving will get full control of the Maple Leafs front office, although that is not confirmed.
As for Brendan Shanahan, he is currently interviewing for the job of General Manager and President of the New York Islanders.
Only time will tell which party ends up coming out of this on top. For now, the Leafs are in a better spot, but you never know.
We wish Shanahan the best of luck in his future endeavors.
Previously on TorontoLeafsInsider
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MAI 22 | 898 ANSWERS Toronto Maple Leafs Part Ways with Brendan Shanahan Did the Toronto Maple Leafs make the right move by firing Brendan Shanahan? |
YES | 846 | 94.2 % |
NO | 52 | 5.8 % |
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