Analyst explains what Maple Leafs must do first before next season

The Toronto Maple Leafs are already thinking about the 2026-27 season, following a disappointing 2025-26 campaign. The Canadian franchise has not yet hired a new general manager after the firing of Brad Treliving, but according to one expert, that is not the first step.

During Leafs Morning Take, TSN's Jamie McLennan pointed out that the first thing Toronto needs to do is resolve the future of key players such as forwards Auston Matthews and William Nylander.

"I think it starts with conversations with the Auston Matthews camp, and you ask, 'What are your intentions?' I think you can have in your mind what you want to do as a manager if you're going to take over that organization," McLennan said.

"You've gone through the depth charts, contracts, and intentions, but you have to have those conversations with Auston Matthews and William Nylander. These guys are your foundational pieces, and you need to know if they want to be a part of this and if they'll buy in because it might be one season of slight pain where you have to move some chairs around to clear cap space and bring in players."

Jamie McLennan 'would be shocked' if Keith Pelley hasn't talked to many teams

McLennan said he thinks Maple Leafs Sports & Entertainment CEO Keith Pelley has already spoken with multiple franchises, regardless of whether he has permission, about hiring a new GM.

"I do believe with Keith Pelley, you have to go through the process and leave no stone unturned. I would be shocked if he hasn't talked to a lot of teams, whether you need permission or not, to do some back-channeling," McLennan said.

Weeks go by, and it is still unclear what the Leafs' front office will look like next season. Without a GM or a president of hockey operations, it is still difficult to know if Craig Berube will remain as head coach. Therefore, Toronto's roster is also unknown.