Leafs Star Shares True Thoughts on Kyle Dubas Abandoning Toronto

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Tom Banks
August 19, 2023 (5:49 PM)

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The Toronto Maple Leafs summer this year has been one of sweeping change, with the biggest move of all being the new GM Brad Treliving taking over after Kyle Dubas walked away and joined the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Massive change

This came after Dubas was at the helm in Toronto for over six years as the General Manager, and given how long their core group has been together, leaving must have been a surprise to them.

In a recent interview, veteran defenseman Morgan Rielly revealed his true feelings about that happening and where the team is going forward.

Um, I wasn't expecting it but I've gotten used to being surprised, I'll say. Um, I think my first few years when players got traded or, uh, obviously teammates but also friends when they leave, you know, you're taken aback. And then, you know, you just get used to a new reality type thing. Um, and I think that was the case with Kyle leaving, him. Um, so we don't spend too much time really worrying about it or thinking about it now. Um, we're just onward, and, you know, we're thinking about the next thing. And, uh, our group is outstanding. And, uh, I spent time with Brad and with Keefer and all the staff, and I think we're in a great spot. So, at this point, we're just trying to look forward, and we're pumped about where we're at and what's going on. So, I think everybody feels good now, which is really all that matters.

Lofty expectations

With so much weight on their shoulders, this team remains unsurprisingly focused on their current group and their goals for 2023-24, and with a talented team, those goals are seemingly Stanley Cup or bust.

The additions of Ryan Reaves, John Klingberg, Max Domi, Tyler Bertuzzi and Martin Jones no doubt give this team depth and physicality, something they've been lacking, so it appears this team is now ready for the deepest run they've had in a long time.

As Read on Hockey Patrol - Morgan Rielly Finally Reveals His True Feelings About Kyle Dubas' Departure