Maple Leafs brass preparing to dismantle Core 4 stars
After eight tries in nine years, the Toronto Maple Leafs have finally realized that tying up over $40 million worth of cap space to four players simply does not work in the playoffs. Earlier today, Maple Leaf sports and entertainment president and CEO Keith Pelley sat down with Leafs president Brendan Shanahan and general manager Brad Treliving to tell the world that they will not be running back their core 4 next season.
For many years, the Leafs put together excellent seasons with several 100 point years but when it came to playoff time, the core group of players choked and the team faltered early in the first round. They managed to win one playoff series against the Tampa Bay Lightning last season but then were demolished by the Florida Panthers in round two.
Pelley, is a newcomer to Maple Leaf sports and entertainment as the torontonian who returned after many years overseas had a very stern and direct message for Leafs Nation and for Leafs management. Ownership will not tolerate anything less then winning the Stanley Cup which has put the core four players on guard and likely some will be likely traded during the summer.
Leafs Brass felt it was time to dismantle it
This is welcome news for Leafs nation though many are still sceptical on how far this will go this is the right course of action for the team as the team requires balance in their payroll and also talent and skill on the ice.
The Leafs had fired Sheldon Keefe earlier this week and are now in the process of hunting for a new head coach. Several names have appeared on the list including Craig Berube, Jay Woodcroft, Todd McClellan and Bruce Boudreau.
It will be a busy time in Leafs nation as the fanbase awaits the next move by management which is expected to be another explosive announcement.
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