Although the Toronto Maple Leafs‘ new coach, Craig Berube, has made everything look rosy, several questions remain about the team’s direction and future success. Additionally, is the Maple Leafs organization truly as bottom-line-oriented as fans believe? Many argue that Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, the corporation that owns the team, is more interested in profits than wins. However, the organization has paid hefty sums to former coaches Sheldon Keefe and Mike Babcock not to coach. Does this indicate a genuine commitment to success? How can it be merely a financial strategy?
Related: How Craig Berube Can Elevate the Toronto Maple Leafs
Then there’s the hype around Berube. While he is credited with leading the St. Louis Blues from last place to a Stanley Cup victory in 2019, he was recently fired after two consecutive seasons without playoff appearances. Can he truly bring the positive changes the Maple Leafs need, or will the initial excitement wear off after a losing streak? Is Berube as good as people say, or is it too soon to anoint him as the team’s saviour?
Finally, in this edition of Maple Leafs news and rumors, we’ll review former Maple Leafs player Zach Hyman and his incredible postseason with the Edmonton Oilers. Hyman has been on fire, showing the skills and determination that made him a fan favourite in Toronto. His success raises questions about the Maple Leafs’ decision-making and ability to develop and retain top talent.
Item One: Is Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment Only Interested in the Bottom Line?
To those who argue that Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE) is indifferent to the team’s success because they generate millions in profit regardless of performance, let’s consider the evidence. MLSE is paying Keefe at least $2 million annually for the next two years not to coach the team. Before Keefe, they paid Babcock $5 million a year under similar circumstances. Does this sound like an organization that doesn’t care about team success?
(THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christopher Katsarov)
Keefe’s emotional farewell video also suggests how much he cared to do well and how much people within the organization strove for success. He looked deeply thankful as well as deeply sad over his dismissal. If it were simply about the money, he might be more focused on enjoying his new-found free time and the millions of dollars in his pocket. Moreover, given his track record and reputation,…
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