Toronto Maple Leafs: What Do You Think?

Early this morning, reports surfaced, indicating that Lou Lamoriello intends to decline an advisory role position with the Toronto Maple Leafs and instead leave for greener pastures.

To analyze this development, I thought I’d try something new.

To begin each day, I strive to read nearly every Leafs blog on the internet. In doing so, it’s become increasingly apparent that Editor in Leaf houses one of the most active comment sections around. You are all very opinionated and loyal readers, and there’s no reason why some of your takes should be confined solely to the comments.

Thus, allow me to introduce a new series titled, “What Do You Think?”.

Every week, (or more, depending on the frequency of breaking news), I’ll briefly summarize a current development occurring in Leafs Nation, give my take on it, then turn it over to you.

In the comments section, reply with your opinion on the matter at hand, and the most entertaining or thoughtful examples will be featured later that week in a follow-up piece.

Considering this summer is shaping up to be quite the pivotal one for the Leafs, I have a feeling there will be much to discuss.

My Take

As crazy as it sounds, Lou Lamoriello was one of the best general managers in Leafs history.

Yes, that fact may be partly due to just how historically starved the franchise has been for executive talent. But, Lou earned that distinction nonetheless.

Really, whoever managed to pull off the Dion Phaneuf trade should be on Legends Row already.

Still, quite the hoopla has been made about Lou’s impending future. And amid said hoopla, we tend to forget that Lou himself told us exactly what was going to unfold three years down the line during his introductory press conference.

In his own words, “if Kyle Dubas doesn’t take my job after three years, it will be his fault.”

Frankly, Lou was never going to stay on as Leafs GM beyond 2017-18. Anyone who suggests otherwise is simply crafting a narrative for the sake of content. With the Leafs out of the playoffs, it’s a slow news cycle. Us writers need to write about something. Although, if the words came directly from Lou’s mouth, then there’s not much left to dispute.

These past three years have brought the Leafs franchise more successes than the previous decade combined. Instead of tearing each other apart arguing about the future, let’s first acknowledge how fun of a ride it’s been.

Let Lou leave in peace. Remember him for how much he accomplished in such a short time.

Because, whether the next GM is Mark Hunter or Kyle Dubas (it’s going to be Dubas), the team will still be in good hands. Both candidates have spent three years working under, and learning from, their 76-year-old boss.

They’re as ready to take over as Lou is to move on.

Comment Your Take

But, that’s just my take on the matter. In the comments below, let me know how you’re feeling about this, and you may be featured in the follow-up article later this week.

Next: The Unheralded Trevor Moore

I genuinely can’t wait to hear what you all have to say.