NHL Rumors: Maple Leafs, Devils, Predators GM Searches & Coaching Updates

Neil Glasberg's Agency's Role with the Toronto Maple Leafs

Toronto Maple Leafs president and MLSE CEO Keith Pelley is actively compiling his own list of candidates for the head of hockey operations position. This internal process runs in parallel with the list being developed by Neil Glasberg's Coaches Agency. It's understood that Glasberg's firm was engaged to provide supplementary value and comprehensive insights, not to dictate the Maple Leafs' final decisions. Their mandate includes in-depth investigation into potential candidates, assessing their suitability, identifying their strengths, and recognizing areas for improvement. This collaboration is viewed as an integral part of managing the overall search process. Glasberg's agency is expected to present candidates who might currently be under contract with other NHL teams, requiring Pelley to seek appropriate permission for any discussions.

General Manager Searches for the New Jersey Devils and Nashville Predators

The Nashville Predators are reportedly well into their search for a new general manager. Meanwhile, Tom Fitzgerald, recently dismissed from his previous role, is believed to retain interest in a GM position and has a prior connection with the Predators organization. For the New Jersey Devils, Martin Brodeur is expected to play a role in the GM selection process, though the extent of his involvement remains undefined. Speculation includes whether Doug Armstrong could be a viable candidate if he becomes available. Additionally, Sunny Mehta, who was previously hired by Devils co-owner David Blitzer, is another name that has surfaced. Should teams like the Maple Leafs or Devils be interested in candidates such as Sunny Mehta, there might be a need for quicker action in appointing a GM. However, for other potential GM candidates, the urgency may be less pronounced. It's anticipated that both the Maple Leafs and Devils aim to have their respective GMs in place by mid-May.

Uncertainties Surrounding New Jersey Devils Personnel

The future of New Jersey Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe remains uncertain. He was recently informed that his tenure will be at the discretion of the incoming general manager, despite having two years remaining on his contract. Similarly, the fate of Chuck Fletcher, who was brought in by Tom Fitzgerald as a special advisor to the GM, is also currently unknown. Furthermore, the Devils organization is yet to decide whether to separate the roles of general manager and president of hockey operations or to consolidate them into a single position once again.