Overview
- Multiple reports Friday said Toronto is nearing a Sundin–Chayka leadership tandem, with Sundin over hockey operations and Chayka as general manager, though no deal is official.
- Toronto sought permission to interview Lightning GM Julien BriseBois, Elliotte Friedman reported Friday, and Tampa Bay declined the request.
- The search began March 30 after the Maple Leafs fired GM Brad Treliving, reflecting CEO Keith Pelley’s push for a front office built on data and new thinking.
- Florida assistant GM Sunny Mehta, who interviewed with Toronto, was hired by the Devils on April 16, removing a leading analytics voice from the Leafs’ candidate pool.
- Chayka’s candidacy has drawn scrutiny due to his Arizona exit and NHL suspension, and early calls for the new group could include coaching plans and blue line upgrades, with TSN reporting Auston Matthews and William Nylander asked for two mobile defensemen.