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If the Maple Leafs want experienced coaches who have won a Stanley Cup or at least been to the final, it’s prime shopping time.
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Barry Trotz and Peter DeBoer, fired on Long Island and in Vegas, respectively, are now there. But Kyle Dubas isn’t in the market to replace Sheldon Keefe.
Asked about the two unemployed bench bosses, the general manager said Tuesday, “It hasn’t necessarily crossed my mind at this point.
“My reason for that is my belief in Sheldon and the job he’s done here so far. I think Sheldon will continue to get better and I think when we speak of Sheldon in 10 or 15 years from now, it will be in the same way you speak of those two great coaches now.
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“That will be played out here in Toronto.”
Keefe conducted exit meetings with the Leafs before addressing the media one last time before summer holiday.
“I feel similar to (Saturday after the Game 7 loss to Tampa), disappointed, but I continue to have tremendous belief in the group. I felt we stepped up in key moments and were aggressive in our approach against a tough opponent.
“I believe progress was made, even though it’s hard to feel that way. The work towards next season has already begun.”
