Popular Targets Slip Away, Maple Leafs Eye Shocking GM Candidate

The Toronto Maple Leafs are continuing their search for direction, both behind the bench and in the front office, but some high-profile options are no longer available, and the Maple Leafs might have been considering a different path regardless. Elliotte Friedman offered a few updates in his recent 32 Thoughts podcast, including who the Leafs might be looking at and the timeline they want to get things accomplished by.

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According to Friedman, any potential fit between Toronto and Doug Armstrong appears unlikely due to timing. With Armstrong still firmly in place with the St. Louis Blues and mentoring a successor, a move to Toronto doesn’t seem realistic. Friedman admitted there’s a chance he could be proven wrong and reserved his right to be, but he didn’t think Armstrong was anywhere near the frontrunner here.

Friedman also noted that the Leafs were never seriously in the mix for Pete DeBoer. With news that DeBoer was hired by the New York Islanders this weekend, some wondered if the Isles were trying to get DeBoer before he was scooped up. However, if Toronto had a strong interest in the veteran coach, they likely would have acted earlier in the season when opportunities first arose.

The Maple Leafs Are Thinking Something Different

Instead, the organization may be leaning toward a different approach. Should a coaching change occur, names like Manny Malhotra—viewed as an up-and-coming option—fit the mold of what the team could be seeking. That aligns with comments made by team president Keith Pelley, who has emphasized a desire to try something new.

On the management side, interest in Sunny Mehta (assistant GM in Florida) is believed to be a legitimate candidate. Friedman also floated Kevyn Adams (former Buffalo Sabres GM) as a potential fit, citing similarities with the leadership qualities Pelley outlined. Interestingly, it’s the team Adams built in Buffalo that finally made the playoffs, but he was relieved of his duties before he could reap the rewards of his roster construction.

One thing is clear: the Maple Leafs want to lock it down before all the names start getting out.

Next: NHL Weekend Rumors: Maple Leafs, Canucks, Oilers, and Coaching Moves