Toronto Maple Leafs Quietly Roll Out Notable Change in First Post-Shanahan Season
Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
It might not seem like much, but with Brendan Shanahan out, so does one of his traditions as the Leafs wear their real uniforms now instead of practice jerseys.
With all the hoopla surrounding the changes that the Toronto Maple Leafs made, none seems bigger than letting Team President Brendan Shanahan go. It wasn't easy, but there were some serious flaws in his 'Shana-Plan' and a new voice was needed.
A Small Jersey Change That Signals a Bigger Shift in the Leafs' Culture
While we didn't get a new voice per se, the team is going to rely much more on Brad Treliving and Craig Berube to make some improvements; and it's already started.
Taking a look at their social media page before the game against Ottawa on Saturday, the Maple Leafs are already ditching part of the Shanahan ideology as they are wearing their regular jerseys for the Prospect Showcase as opposed to the practice ones they have worn previously.
It shows that the team isn't just treating this as your regular ol' run of the mill contest, but this is as serious as it gets; there are potential roster spots available and these players futures hang in the balance.
Plus, it also begins to remove the mark Shanahan left on the team as they head into a new era; and while he did a lot of good it never amounted to any real success.
Why the Leafs' Prospect Jersey Choice Could Hint at Berube's Influence
If there's a reason why Toronto made the switch you could look towards head coach Craig Berube for answers.
Someone who takes things as seriously as Berube, of course you could see why he would want the change potentially. This is a no-nonsense team and it doesn't matter if it's preseason, a Prospect Showcase or the Stanley Cup Finals: Every game counts.
Whether it's for a roster spot in the future, or making sure you keep your spot in the lineup, players are going to have to fight hard. No free lunches when Berube's in charge.
It's also a part of making the culture become one giant collective; if everyone is showing solidarity and feel like they are connected to each other, not only will that lead to more chemistry in the future, but for these young guys who will no doubt be in the Marlies together.
So while it's innocuous at first glance, moving to the genuine jerseys is all part of the new plan: One for all, and all for one.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 13 | 674 ANSWERS Toronto Maple Leafs Quietly Roll Out Notable Change in First Post-Shanahan Season Do you like the jersey change from the Maple Leafs? | ||
| Yes | 455 | 67.5 % |
| No | 219 | 32.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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