Max Domi gets real about future with the Maple Leafs.

In many ways when Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving announced the signing of veteran National Hockey League forward Max Domi last summer, it seemed like it was meant to be. Domi was not only a good fit for the Maple Leafs from a stylistic view point at the time, but he would be following in the footsteps of his father, former NHL enforcer Tie Domi, who made quite the name for himself as a member of the Maple Leafs.

Domi and the Leafs agreed on a 1 year deal at the time and many appeared to believe that due to the combination of Domi's strong showing at the end of the season and his desire to remain in Toronto, it would only be a matter of time before he was re-signed to a new deal. Not so fast.

On Sunday, Domi spoke with Toronto Maple Leafs beat writer Lance Hornby, and it was during that interview that Domi addressed the possibility that his future may not be with the Maple Leafs. Although Domi did indicate he would like to remain in Toronto, it was clear he was also aware that things may not work out.

"I know my agent has been talking to (general manager Brad Treliving), though I have to keep that discussion in-house," Domi said as per Hornby. "Whatever happens will happen, but I’ve still enjoyed every second as a Leaf. I’d love to come back, it’s a special organization, a special group of guys."

Domi also took the time to praise the addition of head coach CRaig Berube, indicating that he feels Berube is the kind of coach that the team needs at this time. Although Domi had high praise for Berube, he again acknowledged that he might not be there to enjoy the new coaching hire come next season.

"Whether I’m here or not, he’s exactly what this team needs to take the next step," said Domi of Berube.

I may simply be reading too much into Domi's comments here, but this does not sound to me like a player that is at all confident he will be back with the Maple Leafs next season.