NHL Rumors: Toronto Maple Leafs, New Jersey Devils, and the Nashville Predators

Neil Glasberg’s Agency Engaged to Enhance Toronto Maple Leafs’ Search for Head of Hockey Operations

Toronto Maple Leafs President and MLSE CEO Keith Pelley is actively compiling his own list of candidates for the head of hockey operations role, complementing the eventual list expected from Neil Glasberg’s Coaches Agency, as reported by Darren Dreger. Dreger emphasized that Glasberg's agency was engaged to provide supplementary value and conduct thorough investigations into potential candidates, assessing their strengths and weaknesses to identify the best fit for the organization, rather than to sway the decision-making process. It's anticipated that Glasberg's submissions will include individuals currently under contract with other NHL teams, necessitating Pelley to seek official permission for discussions.

The Devils and Predators General Manager Search: A Race Against Time?

The Nashville Predators are progressing significantly in their General Manager search. Meanwhile, former GM Tom Fitzgerald, recently dismissed, maintains an interest in securing a GM position elsewhere, particularly given his past ties to the Predators organization, according to Darren Dreger. For the New Jersey Devils, Martin Brodeur is expected to contribute to the GM search and hiring process, though the extent of his involvement remains undefined. Speculation also arises around Doug Armstrong as a potential candidate, should he become available. Additionally, Sunny Mehta, previously hired by Devils owner David Blitzer years ago, is drawing interest. Teams considering Mehta might need to expedite their GM selection, as both the Maple Leafs and Devils are reportedly eyeing him. Conversely, other GM candidates might not necessitate such urgent action. Dreger suggests both the Maple Leafs and Devils aim to appoint their respective GMs by mid-May.

Uncertain Future for New Jersey Devils’ Sheldon Keefe and Chuck Fletcher

New Jersey Devils Head Coach Sheldon Keefe was informed on Tuesday that his future with the team, whether he remains or is replaced, will be a decision for the incoming General Manager, as per Pierre LeBrun. Keefe currently has two years remaining on his contract. The status of Chuck Fletcher, who was brought in by Tom Fitzgerald as a special advisor to the GM, also remains uncertain. LeBrun further noted that the Devils have yet to decide if they will separate the roles of General Manager and President of Hockey Operations or consolidate them into a single position once more.