The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a crucial offseason with several key decisions to be made as they look to bounce back from another disappointing playoff exit. One of the biggest decisions revolves around the future of team President of Hockey Operations, Brendan Shanahan, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season. The ownership of the Maple Leafs will have to determine whether to retain Shanahan or bring in a new leader to steer the team in a new direction.
As the organization contemplates potential replacements for Shanahan, here are three candidates who could potentially take over the role and guide the Maple Leafs towards success:
### 1. Lou Lamoriello
Lou Lamoriello, a seasoned NHL executive, previously served as the General Manager of the Maple Leafs during the early stages of the “Shanaplan” in 2015. While his tenure with the team was relatively short-lived, Lamoriello’s experience and leadership could provide stability and a veteran voice to the organization. Despite concerns about his age, bringing Lamoriello back could help the Maple Leafs navigate through their current challenges and set a new course for the future.
### 2. David Poile
Another experienced executive, David Poile, could be a strong candidate for the role of President of Hockey Operations. Poile, who recently retired as the GM of the Nashville Predators, boasts a successful track record in the league. His calming presence and strategic approach could help the Maple Leafs transition into a new era, potentially ushering in a new coach and GM to lead the team to success.
### 3. Marc Bergevin
Marc Bergevin, the former GM of the Montreal Canadiens, is another intriguing candidate for the position. Bergevin’s experience in building a competitive team and navigating the pressures of a high-profile Canadian market could make him a solid fit for the Maple Leafs. With a recent stint as a senior advisor to the Los Angeles Kings, Bergevin brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective that could benefit the organization as they look to restructure and compete for a championship.
Each of these potential replacements brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the table, offering the Maple Leafs different paths to success. Ultimately, the decision on who will lead the team into the future will be crucial in shaping the direction of the franchise. As the offseason unfolds, the Maple Leafs will need to make a wise choice in selecting the right candidate to guide them towards their ultimate goal of winning a Stanley Cup.
