The Toronto Maple Leafs announced on Thursday that Brendan Shanahan would not be given a contract extension by MLSE and will be departing the organization.
This move marks a symbolic shift in direction for the franchise and the first of many dominanos to fall in the offseason after falling to the Florida Panthers in the second round. While Shanahan was able to make the franchise better-run and helped them reach the playoffs nine straight years, they were unable to advance past the second round, and that will ultimately be his legacy.
In the wake of this franchise-altering move, we put out on social media asking fans what they thought of the news that Shanahan would be leaving after 11 seasons in Toronto. We ended up receiving 200 responses, and we appreciate everyone who took the time to give their perspective on the news.
The reactions from Leafs fans on social media were mostly aligned that it was probably the right time to move on from the president. Some felt that it was a move long overdue, while others recognized that this is a sign that things will be different under the leadership of MLSE CEO Keith Pelley. Here are some of the highlights:
It should not be lost in all of the fallout that Shanahan did a lot right throughout his tenure. He mended wounds with alumni, updated the logo, helped spearhead the addition of Legends Row, and retired the numbers of their franchise icons. In the end, the on-ice results were not good enough, and it’s time for a change.
# Toronto maple leafs
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