Darren Dreger Reveals What's Next for the Maple Leafs as Brendan Shanahan's Future Hangs in the Balance
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
A new report from Darren Dreger shares new info on the future of Brendan Shanahan as his leadership comes under review.
Questions swirl about Brendan Shanahan and whether he will continue to lead the Toronto Maple Leafs as team president as he goes under a post-season review by his bosses, Major League Sports & Entertainment (MLSE).
MLSE is meeting today, which will include discussing the future of Shanahan in Toronto, although it's unknown if today's meeting will come with a final decision on whether they will be renewing Shanahan's contract.
The review comes as
reports have revealed that the New York Islanders had requested an interview with Shanahan, having let go of former Leafs GM Lou Lamiorello as team President and GM.
Bruce Garrioch of TSN says that the Islanders are interviewing Shanahan for both vacant roles, having also interviewed other candidates recently.
The newest report from insider Darren Dreger hints at what is next for Shanahan and if he still has a future in Toronto.
Dreger: Uncertainty Over The Future Of Brendan Shanahan
Darren Dreger suggests that until MLSE makes their final decision on Brendan Shanahan, it's unknown which way they'll ultimately go.
So Brendan [Shanahan], who we know is on an expiring contract, has been given permission to speak with another club. But as we're having this conversation, hasn't been told they're not going to extend his contract. It's a bit weird.
It's a pretty strong indication Brendan Shanahan won't be back. It's not like there's a team in the National Hockey League that is going to offer him a better deal, more money than what he's getting from the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Dreger suggests that even if the Toronto Maple Leafs aren't at one point or the other regarding Shanahan, the fact they're
allowing other teams like the Islanders to get interviews with him is a suggestion his time as Leafs President is likely over.
What Would Keep Brendan Shanahan In Toronto?
If Brendan Shanahan were to continue as the President of the Toronto Maple Leafs, he'd have to prove to MLSE that he's built a contending roster that has underachieved, but he can continue building a cup winner.
The Leafs have had some of their most successful regular seasons under Shanahan's leadership, and he's been involved in successful bargain signings such as
Zach Hyman &
Anthony Stolarz, as well as getting draft steals in
Matthew Knies &
Joseph Woll.
The Leafs have also gone from basement dwellers, to having a plethora of star players who despite not being able to win in the postseason, have legitimately been contenders each season due to the team's constructed strength.
It's unlikely to see Brendan Shanahan signed to an extension long term if he is staying, but it seems until a contract is signed, staying in Toronto looks to be a hard thing to envision for Shanahan.
Previously on HockeyPatrol
POLL |
MAI 22 | 778 ANSWERS Darren Dreger Reveals What's Next for the Maple Leafs as Brendan Shanahan's Future Hangs in the Balance Does Brendan Shanahan deserve a new contract from the Leafs? |
Yes | 65 | 8.4 % |
No | 713 | 91.6 % |
List of polls |