The Toronto Maple Leafs held a press conference on Thursday morning to officially introduce Brad Treliving as their new general manager.
He is the 18th GM in Toronto Maple Leafs franchise history.
The press conference revealed what his priorities, and how he is excited to get down to work. One of the more notable things learned from the press conference is that Treliving can’t be involved in the 2023 NHL draft. It’s a condition placed upon the Leafs when Brendan Shanahan received permission from the Flames to interview him.
One question that everyone knew would get asked was Treliving’s position on the Maple Leafs core four players, Auston Matthews, John Tavares, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander. He answered, “This can’t be about the core four. This is about the Toronto Maple Leafs.” Everyone knows how talented those players are, but his goal is to make the overall team better.
Treliving expressed how fortunate he is to inherit a team with so many talented players. He plans on meeting the players over the coming weeks and speaking with them. The players must know what the new GM’s direction is going to be. Treliving has a busy off-season ahead of him, and making a good first impression will go a long way in this market.
Top Priorities for Toronto Maple Leafs New GM
Auston Matthews
Treliving announced a few of his top priorities for this off-season. He informed the media that he texted Matthews and will meet with him throughout the summer. Matthews is eligible to sign a contract extension, and that is at the top of the priority list. The good news is that Treliving and Matthew’s agent have a good working relationship.
Head Coach Sheldon Keefe
Toronto’s new GM also plans on meeting with head coach Sheldon Keefe. For now, it doesn’t sound like Treliving plans on removing Keefe, and he even described Keefe as a great coach. That could all change, but for now, fans shouldn’t expect a new coach on opening day. I think Treliving will give Keefe the benefit of the doubt and see if he can help.
Style of Play
Treliving mentioned the need to have players that play well defensively and check. There are hints that he may prefer a more physical team with some snarl than Toronto is used to. That could indicate that players such as Noel Acciari and Luke Schenn have a real possibility of returning. Fans will get a clearer picture of Treliving’s plans on July 1st when NHL free agency starts.
Overall, it was a fairly uneventful press conference.