Maple Leafs CEO Sends Strong Message on Stanley Cup Hopes

Maple Leafs CEO Delivers Unambiguous Goal

Pelley told The Athletic that "it's go time," referring to the Leafs' hopes of having a good playoff run.

"I think the combination of the cap going up at the exact time. There's no question we didn’t have as much cap room last year at the playoff deadline, that perhaps we needed to make a move that might have even taken us further. But we’re really conscious of cap room. We definitely have flexibility. And it’s go time now for us," Pelley said.

"You know the age of this team. It’s go time. And I think we have two leaders, in Brad (Treliving) and Chief (Craig Berube), to hopefully take us to the promised land," he added.

Despite the departure of Mitch Marner to the Vegas Golden Knights, coach Craig Berube has found offensive alternatives with men like Max Domi or Matias Maccelli.

And although some fans have expressed disappointment that prospects like Easton Cowan are not on the main roster, Pelley made it clear that he trusts the decisions of both Berube and GM Brad Treliving.

"It’s been very enjoyable working with Brad and Chief. The way they work together is really, really good. The vibe around the team is positive. The new players that they brought in seem to have created good chemistry," Pelley said.

"There’s a lot of optimism. After last night’s win, in the coach’s room, talking to Chief, we’re pretty optimistic. But it’s pretty early. The last four months have been incredibly enjoyable. Brad is meticulous in his decision-making process and his analysis, and Chief is one of the most straightforward, strong-willed, passionate hockey guys you can meet," he concluded.