The Toronto Maple Leafs have named a notable duo to guide their front office, tapping Hockey Hall of Famer Mats Sundin as senior executive adviser for hockey operations and former Arizona Coyotes general manager John Chayka as the team’s new GM. The moves come after the club missed the playoffs and parted ways with Brad Treliving.
“This is an important day for the Toronto Maple Leafs organization,” Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment President and CEO Keith Pelley said in a statement. “I’m thrilled to welcome John and Mats to their roles—two strong hockey minds who will help build a championship-caliber team for our fans and our city.”
Sundin, 55, is the Maple Leafs’ all-time leading scorer after 13 seasons with the franchise. Though new to an NHL front-office role, he has stayed connected to the team in recent years. His position as senior adviser is expected to carry real influence, focusing on team culture, player development, and leadership.
Chayka, 36, becomes the 19th GM in Maple Leafs history. He made headlines years ago as the youngest general manager in major North American sports when Arizona hired him at age 26. After his time with the Coyotes, he stepped away from the NHL and has been running his own business ventures in Canada.
The hires follow a broad search that included several experienced executives and rising assistants. Chayka expressed excitement about joining one of hockey’s most storied franchises.
“I’m honored to join the Toronto Maple Leafs organization and excited to work alongside Mats and the entire group,” he said. “This is a historic franchise with passionate fans who want to win. I’m focused on building a competitive, driven team that’s in the best position to succeed for our fans and the city of Toronto.”
Key questions now center on how the new leadership will retool the roster after a tough season and what the future holds for star center Auston Matthews, who is under contract through 2028. The team plans a formal introduction at a news conference on Monday.