Future still in doubt for Leafs scout who was arrested

In his latest article for the Toronto Sun, Toronto Maple Leafs analyst Steve Simmons dissects the situation the team has between itself and head scout Lindsay Hofford. If you don’t remember, Hofford was arrested late last month in Buffalo, New York for driving while intoxicated, leaving the scene of an accident, refusal to take a breathalyzer test, unsafely changing lanes and unauthorized use of a vehicle without owner consent.

Simmons specifically asked Leafs general manger Lou Lamoriello about the situation but was met with a terse, “no comment.” According to Simmons, the Leafs will need to be delicate with the situation, as Hofford is no ordinary scout, he’s a valuable member of the team’s staff and something of a right-hand-mane for assistant general manager Mark Hunter. 

From Simmons, himself:

If this was just another scout, this would be easy. The Leafs would say goodbye to him and push him out the door rather quietly. But this is somewhat complicated. Hofford isn’t just another scout. He’s tight with assistant GM Mark Hunter. He’s valued as one of the of the top pair of eyes in the organization.

However, it’s no secret that Lamoriello runs a tight ship, so it will be interesting to see how the Leafs proceed with Hofford.

Again, from Simmons:

Lamoriello is a man of many rules. Just how the Leafs operate here — and knowing their belief in Hofford’s scouting acumen — will be fascinating to observe.