Brendan Shanahan Maybe Forced To Break Promise He Recently Made To The Maple Leafs' Core Four

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S. Harper
May 29, 2023 (12:41)

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Following the dismissal of Kyle Dubas from his role with the Toronto Maple Leafs, President Brendan Shanahan made a significant commitment to the team's 'Core 4' players - Auston Matthews, John Tavares, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander.

He assured them that they would not be traded, a promise that stands firm, irrespective of who fills the forthcoming general manager role.

Questioning Shanahan's Promise

However, Luke Fox of Sportsnet has raised doubts about the practicality of Shanahan's pledge.

Fox states, "It would be unorthodox for Shanahan to make these assurances before selecting a new general manager, as it could hinder the new GM's ability to make independent decisions and potentially deter qualified candidates.

Allowing the new general manager to shape the roster according to their vision is crucial, and Shanahan's pre-existing promises to the Core 4 players might complicate this process."

The Core Four Might Be No More

I find myself aligning with Luke Fox's perspective. Shanahan's public assurances to the Core 4 players, made even before appointing a new general manager, may indeed deviate from conventional practice.

The autonomy of a new GM to make decisions and steer the team according to their strategic vision is crucial. By introducing such pre-set player commitments, Shanahan might unintentionally curb the new GM's ability to enact required changes.

Furthermore, this could deter potential candidates who may wish for a more independent role in sculpting the team. Granting the new general manager the leeway to leave their imprint on the roster is essential for the long-term success of the team.

Credit:Blade Of Steel