John Chayka's first order of business is a meeting with Craig Berube that decides everything
Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images, Sportsnet
John Chayka's first move as the Toronto Maple Leafs new general manager involves speaking with head coach Craig Berube.
According to reporter Andy Strickland, new Leafs GM John Chayka will be speaking to Craig Berube as Chayka's first order of business.
It's unclear if Chayka's call to Berube would decide the future of the Leafs head coach, or if it's merely an introductory call between the new GM and the coach, but one sure to raise interest.
Berube has faced questions about his job security and the potential of him being let go following the hiring of a new GM, something that Berube may soon get the answer to.
Chayka's first priority as GM is this Berube meeting and every other rebuild decision flows from what happens next
The immediate question surrounding the future outlook of the Toronto Maple Leafs is whether or not Craig Berube remains in charge as head coach.
There is the possibility that the decision on Berube's future is already finalized by MLSE, and it won't be Chayka's decision, but rather Keith Pelley's.
Berube is in his second season as the Leafs head coach, with Toronto failing to make the postseason for the first time in a decade as injuries consistently became too much of a burden for the Leafs to overcome.
The decision on the head coach position will have to consider the Leafs injury troubles as one important factor in determining Berube's fate, but as well considering his level of trust in the 60-year-old.
Berube already met with Sundin and now faces Chayka and the two conversations together decide his entire future
Speaking with John Chayka and Mats Sundin, Craig Berube may have gotten a clear picture on his future, but Leafs fans may not know right away.
A Monday press conference will provide more details on the hiring of Chayka and Sundin, although it's unknown if questions about Berube will provide much answers.
It's unlikely that Berube will be fired today or tomorrow, Toronto doubtful to have it eclipse the focus towards the Leafs recent signings. But if Berube is out, he won't last for too long.
If Berube does remain as the Toronto Maple Leafs head coach, it'll align with comments made by Chayka about wanting more relentlessness and compete, something Berube has hammered home as important.
The Leafs press conference tomorrow will likely not confirm the future of Craig Berube, but it could provide a strong hit as to what the Leafs plans are for their head coach.
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