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Leafs GM Brad Treliving reveals rationale behind bringing Sheldon Keefe back this season

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Mike Armenti
June 27, 2023 (8:24 PM)

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For the first time since his introductory press conference at the beginning of the month, Leafs GM Brad Treliving took part in a press conference this afternoon, just one day before the 2023 NHL Entry Draft.

During the presser, Treliving confirmed what most already suspected, which was that Sheldon Keefe will be back with the team next season as head coach.

Treliving provided his rationale behind the move to bring back the young head coach, standing behind Keefe as an intelligent bench boss who is still learning and improving as he goes. Here's what Treliving had to say about Keefe this afternoon:

"He has a bright mind. I think he's open to change. I think he is strong in his beliefs, but he also doesn't think he has all the answers. He has worked with Kyle a long time, but sometimes a little bit of new, a little bit of fresh can help." - Treliving on Keefe

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Treliving also stated that the players have shown tremendous support for Keefe and likewise that Keefe has gone to bat for the players this summer. Both the coach and the players appear to believe that they can get the job done together.

The new Leafs GM also stated during the presser that the Leafs will sit down with Keefe at some point to discuss a potential extension. However, he wouldn't expand on that, other than to say there will be a time and a place for those conversations at some point down the line.