The Toronto Maple Leafs are gearing up for a significant announcement on Friday. There is much speculation about the potential removal of head coach Sheldon Keefe. As Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment CEO Keith Pelley, President Brendan Shanahan, and General Manager Brad Treliving prepare for a joint press conference, the spotlight is on Keefe’s future and the team’s postseason struggles under his leadership.
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However, there’s also speculation about Shanahan’s future. There are some rumblings that he should not escape the axe. That said, since he’s scheduled to be at the meeting, he will likely remain with the team.
Sheldon Keefe Has Been a Solid Head Coach for the Maple Leafs
Regular-season success has been a hallmark of Keefe’s coaching tenure. In his time at the helm, the Maple Leafs have an impressive .607 winning percentage. However, their postseason performances have been tainted by disappointment, only advancing past the first round once.
Treliving’s decision here is critical, considering the team’s desire for postseason success. But a decision to remove him is expected because Keefe will not attend on Friday.
If Keefe is relieved of his duties, Treliving will have many coaching options to consider. While names like Craig Berube and Todd McLellan are in the spotlight, other coaches like Gerard Gallant and Jay Woodcroft are also in the mix. Joel Quenneville’s name has also popped up, but he has to get NHL clearance.
The decision regarding Keefe’s future will shape the Maple Leafs’ course for next season. Keefe failed to guide the Maple Leafs on a successful playoff run, and the decision to remove him will likely make fans exceedingly happy in the short term. The vocal ones have been more than clear. Last year, it was Kyle Dubas, and this year, it will be Keefe.
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Unless there’s a huge surprise, Friday’s press conference is a done deal. Change is on the horizon in Toronto, and Keefe will be on his way out of town.
Evaluating Brendan Shanahan’s Legacy With the Maple Leafs
What about Shanahan’s future with the organization? There are questions about the rationale behind retaining him, especially considering the team’s lack of playoff success under his leadership.
With Shanahan at the top of the food chain for a decade, the Maple Leafs have managed…
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