Insider provides some clarity as to what the Leafs are looking for in the next general manager
As we wait with bated breath to see what the Leafs intend to do this summer with regard to their vacant GM position, there are countless possibilities and Leafs Nation is simply hoping that the right one is made to bring in a quality candidate to occupy the GM's office at Ford Performance Centre.
In recent days, we have heard names like Brad Treliving, Doug Armstrong, Brandon Pridham and what seems to be a popular fan option in Eric Tulsky being tossed around. However, during his 32 Thoughts segment on the Saturday coverage of the Carolina/Florida game, Elliotte Friedman revealed one key characteristic the Leafs are looking for in their next GM.
Per Friedman, the Leafs are currently looking for someone who brings a lot of "bite" to the table - someone who isn't going to be intimidate or afraid and someone who won't shy away from making big, important decisions.
Now, just what that means is open to interpretation. Some believe that it means that the Leafs are looking for someone who will build a much bigger, meaner Leafs team. Other believe that it just means bringing in someone who won't buckle at the negotiating table and will rule with more of an iron fist than Kyle Dubas did. After all, if players with limited leverage are attempting to rake the Leafs' feet over the coals, the last thing we'd need is another GM forfeiting an extra $1M-$2M per season on a long-term deal again - especially from players who can't seem to get it done in the playoffs.
Time will tell which way the Leafs will go here, but if Shanahan is looking for someone who is both imposing and has a good amount of experience, the options may be somewhat limited. Personally, I feel that another forward-thinking GM with a good mind for the game in the direction that it's trending would be a better idea. However, at this point, I'm just hoping that Shanahan stays as far away from someone like Peter Chiarelli as humanly possible. Chiarelli had a penchant for big moves, but not smart moves.
