Ex-Maple Leafs GM Releases Statement Regarding Firing

Kyle Dubas has released a statement which has the attention of most of the hockey world. The ex-Toronto Maple Leafs general manager was in the middle of contract negotiations with the team when he decided to speak to the media last week after president Brendan Shanahan suggested he shouldn't. What Dubas said during the press conference rubbed Shanahan the wrong way which resulted in a snap decision to let Dubas go after.

onward. pic.twitter.com/kHlCfe8Q0a

— Kyle Dubas (@kyledubas) May 23, 2023

The Maple Leafs are in big trouble because of this as there's a lot of business on the table for the franchise. Both Auston Matthews and William Nylander are eligible for contract extensions on July 1 and now, by the sounds of it, Matthews is very likely to not be as committed to the franchise as he was when the season ended and he said it was his 'intention' to stay in Toronto.

The uncertainty of a new GM and head coach makes the future of the Maple Leafs in jeopardy. Matthews has a no-movement clause that kicks in on July 1 but to this point, don't expect any moves before then. The Leafs star did say he wants an extension completed before next season begins so there's a lot of pressure on whoever takes over for Dubas to get this massive order of business completed.

As for Dubas, there's no denying the season took a toll on his family, he's mentioned that numerous times. After somewhat closing the door on working anywhere else this season during the press conference last week, it does appear Dubas to the Pittsburgh Penguins is heating up.

Photo credit:  John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports