Sheldon Keefe releases video statement about his firing

Hours after being fired by the Toronto Maple Leafs, Sheldon Keefe released a video response to termination, saying he was "forever grateful" for the opportunity.

After another first-round playoff exit, the consensus was that the Leafs were going to make a coaching change. Three days after Keefe took responsibility for failing to get past the first round, the Leafs relieved him of his duties as head coach. Hours after news became public, Keefe released a video saying that it was a "dream come true". He also touched on his failure to find success in the playoffs and as he did Monday, accepted responsibility for it.


He continued by thanking the organization, players and fans for the opportunity.



Keefe replaced Mike Babcock in November of 2019 and guided the team to a Leafs to a 212-97-40 record in 349 regular season games. The Leafs recorded three consecutive 100-point seasons under Keefe which included a franchise record 115 points in the 2021-22 season. Many believe Keefe will land on his feet in short order, but for now, as he said in his message, he's going to take a break and spend some time with his family.