The future of Brendan Shanahan, president of the Toronto Maple Leafs, remains uncertain following the team’s disappointing second-round exit in the NHL playoffs against the Florida Panthers. As the organization prepares for its end-of-season review, the Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment board of directors is set to meet on Thursday to discuss Shanahan’s fate, especially as his contract is due to expire at the end of June after completing his 11th season.
Ownership had aimed for at least a trip to the Eastern Conference Final this season, but frustrating losses, particularly two games marked by 6-1 scores at home, have left feelings of disappointment and embarrassment among executives. Despite this, they plan to approach any decisions regarding Shanahan’s future carefully, avoiding impulsive actions.
This decision comes amid significant changes within MLSE, including the anticipated sale of Bell’s stake in the organization to Rogers Communications, which will give Rogers a controlling interest in the company. The current board members from Rogers have begun to take an active role in the team’s direction.
Additionally, Shanahan has garnered interest from the New York Islanders, who have received permission to discuss their top hockey position with him, adding to the intrigue surrounding his future. Keith Pelley, the new president and CEO of MLSE, has had limited time to evaluate the team’s management. While he previously expressed confidence in Shanahan and GM Brad Treliving’s collaboration, Pelley now has a full year of experience to inform his decisions.
The offseason represents a crucial period for the Maple Leafs. Key players, including Mitch Marner and John Tavares, are approaching unrestricted free agency, with Marner likely eyeing the open market. While Shanahan’s future remains uncertain, internal sentiments regarding Treliving’s performance as GM are reportedly positive, and he has secured his position for future seasons.
In the context of a changing NHL landscape, the Maple Leafs must navigate their decisions thoughtfully, bearing in mind the franchise’s long history without a Stanley Cup victory since 1967 and the challenges they face to build a competitive team capable of making deep playoff runs.