In case you haven’t heard, there’s a series of big MLSE board of director meetings happening today that could shape the landscape of the Toronto Maple Leafs for many years to come.
Barring something unforeseen, it seems very likely that Brendan Shanahan’s tenure as team president of the club will come to a close in the not-too-distant future. Two series victories in 11 years will do that to you.
At any rate, we kicked off the Thursday edition of Leafs Morning Take by discussing Edmonton’s defensive meltdown in Game 1 of the Western Conference Final. The Oilers put forth a masterful first 40 minutes before completely soiling themselves in the third period. For the worse, Stuart Skinner, who had been hot to finish the Vegas series, was a big reason why. Edmonton’s just couldn’t get a save. Shame.
After that, we got into the nuts and bolts of what’s to come. Here’s what we know: Keith Pelley and company are meeting to discuss strategy and direction. What’s interesting is that on Wednesday, the Leafs granted the Islanders permission to speak to Shanahan. That sounds like they’re ready to move on after 11 years, doesn’t it? According to Chris Johnston, the Florida series left ownership disappointed and embarrassed. Finally, seismic change could be coming. It’s about time. Furthermore, we also spoke a bit about the Leafs granting Seattle access to speak to Lane Lambert about their vacant head coaching position.
Then, brought to you by Charm Diamond Centres, Luke Fox, who covers the Leafs for Sportsnet.ca, dropped by the show to dish on the very latest. We talked Shanahan’s status, what makes Keith Pelley tick, other changes to expect, and some McDavid to Toronto, too.
Carter Hutton will fill in for Jay Rosehill on the Friday edition of Leafs Morning Take. Be sure to join us at 11 AM ET as we react to the fallout from Thursday’s MLSE board meetings. Also, TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger will drop by the show to sift through everything for us.
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