Elliotte Friedman has shared new insight into the Toronto Maple Leafs’ ongoing search for a new general manager, revealing that the organization may already have a preferred direction in mind—and it involves a surprising but highly recognizable name.
The Maple Leafs are currently in the process of reshaping their front office after dismissing former general manager Brad Treliving last month. Since then, the team has reportedly conducted an extensive search, interviewing multiple qualified candidates and gradually narrowing the field to a shortlist of finalists. With the offseason approaching, Toronto appears eager to finalize leadership decisions so the franchise can begin preparing for next season with a clear plan in place.
According to Friedman, the Maple Leafs’ final decision may now depend largely on one person: franchise icon Mats Sundin.
During an appearance on Oilers NOW with Bob Stauffer on Tuesday, Friedman was asked about several front-office vacancies across the NHL. When the conversation turned to Toronto, he provided a concise but significant update.
He explained that the Maple Leafs are currently waiting for Sundin’s response, and if Sundin agrees to join the organization, the likely structure would feature a partnership between Mats Sundin and John Chayka.
This is one of the clearest indications yet regarding Toronto’s intentions, as previous reports had only suggested that Sundin might be considered for some advisory role. Friedman’s latest comments now suggest something much bigger could be on the table.
Rather than simply serving as a consultant or senior advisor, Sundin could potentially be brought in to take on a major executive leadership position—possibly as President of Hockey Operations. In that role, he would oversee the broader direction of the team, while John Chayka would step in as general manager and handle day-to-day roster management and hockey operations under Sundin’s leadership.
Such a move would represent a dramatic shift for the organization. Sundin remains one of the most respected figures in Maple Leafs history, and bringing him back into a senior executive role would likely energize both the fan base and the franchise. However, accepting the position would reportedly require a major personal decision, as Sundin and his family currently reside in Stockholm. Joining Toronto’s front office would likely mean relocating back to the city and taking on a demanding full-time responsibility.
Friedman also addressed the situation earlier in the week during an episode of 32 Thoughts, where he reiterated that Sundin’s decision is central to everything Toronto is planning.
He noted that many around the organization are waiting to see whether Sundin is interested in the larger role that has been discussed behind the scenes. Friedman added that once Sundin makes his intentions clear, the Maple Leafs should have a much clearer picture of what their front office structure will look like moving forward.
In short, the Leafs’ next chapter may hinge on whether one of the greatest players in franchise history is ready to return—not on the ice, but in the boardroom.
