Sheldon Keefe gives a huge indication he's about to be fired

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TJ Tucker
May 6, 2024 (2:47 PM)

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In a conversation with reporters, Toronto Maple Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe gave a massive hint that he won't be returning to the team next season

With another earlier than expected exit from the postseason, the Toronto Maple Leafs have to do something over the summer to try and turn the fortunes of the team around. Many believe head coach Sheldon Keefe is likely days away from being fired, and Keefe himself gave a hint today that that's probably the case.

Once an NHL team's season is over, the coach will usually hold exit meeting with players to determine what tweaks and changes can be made in the future. Keefe told reporters today he was given the option of whether to do those interviews or not by GM Brad Treliving.

"Keefe just said Treliving gave him the option between doing exit interviews or not. Wow."

While talking to reporters, Keefe was asked whether he think he'll be back next season. He said as a coach he doesn't get to make those decisions, but he understands that he has to take the blame.

"I accept responsibility for not meeting results."

"My job is to work to find solutions, and to continue to improve as a coach. And at the same time, take accountability for the fact that we haven't met expectations."

I would certainly like the attention and focus to be on me as the head coach and a leader. You have to be accountable when you don't meeting expectations."

Toronto is the only NHL team Keefe has coached after coming up through the ranks in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and the American Hockey League (AHL).