The Toronto Maple Leafs finally ended the uncertainty surrounding their front office for next season. The Canadian franchise announced the hiring of its new general manager and a new advisor.
Toronto officially named John Chayka as the new GM, while Mats Sundin became the new senior executive advisor, Hockey Operations.
“Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment today announced two leadership appointments for the Toronto Maple Leafs, naming John Chayka General Manager and Leafs legend Mats Sundin as Senior Executive Advisor, Hockey Operations,” reads the official statement.
On March 30, the Leafs announced the removal of Brad Treliving as GM, citing the “need for the franchise to chart a new course under new leadership.” Throughout the month of April, there was no certainty about what the front office would look like next season, and even more so because head coach Craig Berube was not fired.
New front office will define future of coach Craig Berube and stars Auston Matthews, William Nylander
Now it is expected that the duo of Chayka and Sundin will get to work and, among other things, define the future of Berube and some of its stars, such as forwards William Nylander and Auston Matthews, whose continuity has been a topic of speculation.
Chayka already has experience as a GM with the now-defunct Arizona Coyotes between 2016 and 2020. He assumed the position at 26, becoming the youngest general manager in NHL history.
On the other hand, Leafs legend Sundin does not have a strong background in the hockey world after his professional retirement, but he is highly appreciated by the fan base and the franchise.
“Today is an important day for the Toronto Maple Leafs organization,” said MLSE President and CEO Keith Pelley on Sunday. “I’m thrilled to welcome John and Mats to their roles, two great hockey minds that will strengthen our entire hockey club.”
