The latest update from TSN insiders Pierre LeBrun and Darren Dreger has shed new light on the Toronto Maple Leafs' front office overhaul, as MLSE president Keith Pelley continues his search for key hires.
While a clearer timeline and next steps are beginning to take shape, the insiders revealed at least one conflicting detail about Toronto's overall strategy, seemingly confirming that much is to be determined about Pelley's plans.
Timeline Emerging for Maple Leafs Front Office Search as Pelley Keeps Options Open
During a segment on TSN's Insider Trading, LeBrun was first to offer what he had heard about the Maple Leafs and Pelley's next steps. First, he noted that the Leafs hope to have a search firm hired by the end of next week.
LeBrun then disclosed that Pelley continues to have dialogue with several people across the NHL in hopes of presenting a list of 8-10 names to the search firm as a starting point.
The insider disclosed that he was told on Thursday that Pelley and the Maple Leafs were looking for a "Head of Hockey Operations", and from there it will be determined if other hires are made. He added that Pelley wants to remain as flexible as possible, meaning the team may hire just a GM, both a president and GM, or one person to handle both roles. LeBrun's final point was that the Leafs hope to have the hires completed by the end of May.
"Keith Pelley wants to stay as flexible as possible."Pierre LeBrun on Pelley's job search
Dreger was next to share what he was hearing. He said he was told that the Maple Leafs and Pelley were more likely to hire only a GM.
Dreger divulged that Toronto is giving strong consideration to copying the Carolina (Hurricanes) model, saying that is not a surprise since Pelley spoke glowingly of Eric Tulsky, the team's GM, during his recent media availability. Dreger also reiterated that Pelley feels strongly that the next GM of the Leafs has "to be entrenched in the analytics world."
Even as parts of Pelley's plan are starting to come into focus, the bigger picture for the Maple Leafs remains far from settled. Key variables, including who becomes available, what feedback emerges from core players, and guidance from the hired search firm, will all shape the outcome. Until those pieces fall into place, Toronto's long-term vision remains a work in progress.