Insider believes the Leafs are currently exploring other coaching options

General managers, when asked about their coaches, usually support them - especially when it's "their guy". That's essentially what Kyle Dubas did yesterday at the Leafs' end of season media availability. Although, he did say everyone would be evaluated and would not fully commit to Keefe being back next season.

On this week's episode of 32 Thoughts with Elliotte Friedman and Jeff Marek, Friedman touched on what he believes the Leafs will do coaching-wise.


There are a handful of coaches available, but in the Leafs' case, Friedman believes that if they don't feel like they are getting an upgrade over Sheldon Keefe, then they won't make a change. After all, since taking over for Mike Babcock in the 2019-2020 season, Keefe is 166-71-30 for a .678 win percentage. He has continuously improved the team year over year, and even made them a top-5 defensive team this season.


I know not everyone will have the appetite to bring him back, but he did lead the Leafs to their first Round 2 appearance in 19 years. There is progress being made, it's just slower than most of the fanbase would like. Personally, I think a change may be necessary to help elevate this team to the next level. Coaches have tendencies, and Sheldon's tendencies are to keep guys together long after they've shown inconsistencies. It hurt them in Round 2 against the Panthers and I'm not sure I have the stomach for something similar next year.