NHL Rumors: Another Major Member Of Maple Leafs Likely Done In Toronto

Tuesday, May 20, 2025 ,
Toronto Maple Leafs logo.

After a decade of playoff heartbreak and persistent loyalty to a flawed core, Brendan Shanahan's tenure as president of the Toronto Maple Leafs seems to be nearing its long-overdue end. 

Following yet another postseason meltdown—this time a humiliating 6-1 Game 7 loss to the Florida Panthers—there is widespread belief across media and league circles that the Shanaplan is finally dead.

Brendan Shanahan's Time With the Maple Leafs Appears Over After Latest Collapse

Shanahan, whose contract expires this summer, has overseen nine straight playoff appearances and only two series wins. Despite his commitment to the “Core Four” of Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and John Tavares, the group has failed to advance past the second round in seven playoff runs. 

This year’s collapse—blowing a 2-0 series lead and scoring just four goals in the final four games—was punctuated by fans tossing jerseys and beer onto the ice and a visibly broken Mitch Marner departing without any clarity on his future.

Now, all signs point to a regime change. Marner is expected to move on, Tavares’ future is uncertain, and Shanahan’s inability to adjust course has left MLSE with no justification to retain him. 

“It has to be the end,” wrote Jonas Siegel of The Athletic, summarizing the sentiment shared by fans and insiders alike. GM Brad Treliving and coach Craig Berube are expected to stay, but ownership must decide whether to replace Shanahan or restructure leadership altogether. 

After a decade of misplaced belief, Toronto seems finally ready to embrace change.

Photo Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

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