Sheldon Keefe comments on his return as the Maple Leafs head coach
Rumors surrounding Sheldon Keefe's firing has been flowing since Kyle Dubas was canned. A few days ago, Brad Treliving confirmed that Keefe was going to be back behind the Leafs' bench next season.
He talked about his situation during a press conference at the Draft in Nashville.
Keefe opened up about his relationship with Brad Treliving, which was non-existant before he was hired in Toronto, as well as the process behind all of it.
«It has been a good process, a thorough one, at times uncertain and uncomfortable. It was a necessary one in understanding the position that Brad and the organization are in. I approached it as though I was starting anew."
Then, he continued by talking about their shared views on some debates:
«Where we matched, was he had great respect for how our team defended and how our team has evolved in that sense, the effort and commitment that our best players have shown on the defensive side of the puck and how that has developed over the years.
That is something that he believes is the foundation of any team and, in particular, when it's led by your best people. He has seen the growth in our players and how they have done that.»
After, he mentionned how great it is to work with Shane Doan and Treliving:
«I was thrilled when I got the call that we were going to work together and it has been terrific since. It has been great to work with Brad and Shane Doan, for that matter.»
Keefe's contract will expire next summer, and for now, nothing's been done concerning a potential expension.
«That will play itself out. There's a lot on his list right now and I understand that. When the timing is right, we will spend some time and talk about it and see what works for the organization and myself and go from there.»
Treliving and Keefe will take this year to evaluate if they like working with each other and if not, Keefe will certainly move when his contract expires.
As seen on Toronto Sun - Sheldon Keefe 'thrilled' he is getting chance to continue as Maple Leafs coach
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