Report: Shanahan’s plan revealed!

In his latest 31 Thoughts column for Sportsnet, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman drops a rumour regarding the Toronto Maple Leafs and the future of GM Lou Lamoriello, as well as the team’s entire management staff.

With Lamoriello’s contract set to expire this upcoming offseason, there has been much speculation as to what his future might be with the Leafs. Well, according to Friedman, Leafs president Brendan Shanahan would like to “bring back the band” in Toronto. Meaning, he’d like to keep Lamoriello and the rest of his management group in place for at least one more season. Friedman reports however that, “there’s no confirmation and a real desire to keep this kind of information very quiet.”

It’s extremely rare that a GM re-ups with a club for just a single season and most opt for a three year or longer agreement. But, given the unique situation that the Leafs are in, it could make sense for Lamoriello to return on a one-year deal. The rebuild has been a success in Toronto, but another year under the tutelage of Lamoriello can only help as the team transitions to assistant GMs Mark Hunter and Kyle Dubas. 

Would Lou sign on for another spin around the sun? Time will tell.