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Shanahan not expected to hire new GM before draft

Brendan Shanahan

Toronto Maple Leafs president Brendan Shanahan has spent the offseason dramatically altering the team’s staff in preparation for what could also be a summer of significant changes from a roster perspective. That’s created a number of big vacancies and while he’s already found a new bench boss in Mike Babcock, the Maple Leafs aren’t expected to hire a new general manager before the NHL draft, per the Toronto Sun.

If that proves to be the case, then the Leafs might end up making some significant trades with its current three-headed setup that includes Shanahan, and co-interim general managers Mark Hunter and Kyle Dubas. Shanahan doesn’t believe it’s as complicated as it sounds though.

“We talk every day,” Shanahan said. “If people want to talk to us, they know where to find us.”

As for which of them teams should reach out to, Shanahan said that teams can contact whichever one they feel most comfortable with.

When the vacancy is finally filled, the Maple Leafs might not go with an external option. It’s possible that either Dubas or Hunter will get the role despite their relative lack of experience. Shanahan might also decide to assume the GM duties on a long-term basis.

In the meantime, Toronto is open to moving the fourth overall pick and there’s reportedly been inquires from other teams about Phil Kessel’s availability.

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