Maple Leafs Make Decision on GM's Future After Brendan Shanahan’s Exit

Johnston noted that Toronto intends to “continue relying heavily” on Treliving, who was hired by Shanahan in May 2023 following the firing of Kyle Dubas, as the Leafs enter "a critical offseason."

Elliotte Friedman, meanwhile, also confirmed the same in a short note posted to X.

"Hearing that Brad Treliving is staying as Toronto’s General Manager," Friedman wrote.

Johnston added that there’s no immediate plan to replace Shanahan and that Treliving will now report directly to Pelley.

Friday’s press conference, scheduled for 1 p.m. ET at Scotiabank Arena, is expected to provide full clarity on how Toronto’s front office will operate going forward.

"With MLSE president and CEO Keith Pelley due to address reporters about the changes on Friday afternoon at Scotiabank Arena, the initial indications are that Shanahan won’t be replaced immediately, according to league sources," Johnston wrote.

Treliving’s two seasons in Toronto have been mixed. He inherited the Leafs' Core Four of high-priced forwards but refused to move any of them, failed to sign Mitch Marner to a long-term extension, and didn't complete any big free-agent signings or mid-season trades.

Ultimately, the Leafs fell short in the playoffs, losing in the second round this year to the Panthers, a series that ended in a 6-1 Game 7 loss on home ice.