Maple Leafs Reunite with Two-Time Stanley Cup Champion in Front Office Role

Kyle Clifford Retires After 13 Seasons, Quickly Returns Home

Clifford's final NHL appearance came in October 2022 with Toronto. That said, he continued playing with the Maple Leafs' affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, in the AHL until last season.

The veteran hung his skates coming off a 17-game campaign with the Marlies in 2024-25, in which he netted four goals and assisted four more for eight total points.

Clifford reached his peak during the 2014 postseason, when he scored seven points in 24 games and led the playoff field with 39 penalties in minutes, helping the Kings capture their second title in three years.

Maple Leafs Bring Kyle Clifford Into Player Development Role

In the same announcement, Clifford revealed his next step will keep him in Toronto. He has joined the Maple Leafs front office in a player development position, though the organization has not disclosed his exact responsibilities.

The NHL Alumni account on X congratulated Clifford on his retirement while announcing his hiring.

"With his retirement, Kyle will transition into a player development role with the Toronto Maple Leafs," the account wrote. "Congratulations on your retirement, Kyle! We wish you the best of luck in your new role, and welcome you to the NHL Alumni Association!"

Clifford spent most of the last four years with Toronto’s organization, including two full seasons with the Marlies.

It's fair to assume Toronto took advantage of that relationship, as Clifford returns to an organization he already knows and is familiar with when it comes to developing players still honing their skill sets in the AHL, having spent ample time in the minors.