BUFFALO — Due diligence has become a familiar phrase for Toronto Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka during his first month on the job. As the club prepares for the 2026 NHL draft with the first overall pick, Chayka addressed several key issues, including captain Auston Matthews' future, the ongoing coaching search, and top prospect Gavin McKenna.
Matthews Committed to Toronto
Despite rampant speculation that Matthews might seek a move elsewhere, Chayka revealed that conversations with the 28-year-old captain and his representatives have been positive. “We’ve had several conversations with him and his representatives, and what I saw was a happy captain, someone who has a lot of pride to be the captain of Toronto Maple Leafs, someone who wants to win in Toronto,” Chayka said. “We’ve spent a better part of (the past month) getting to know everybody and getting some face-time and connecting with them, listening a lot and hearing about how the season went, and no different than Auston. We continue to have those conversations.”
Coaching Search Progress
On the coaching front, Chayka provided an update on the extensive search process. The club initially identified 55 potential candidates, which was narrowed down to 20, and now Chayka is conducting further interviews with a shorter list. Unlike previous coaching hires in Toronto, which often focused on a single target, Chayka emphasized a thorough approach. “We’re not as focused on some artificial timeline, we’re really focused on conviction,” he stated. “It has been a long time since there has been a full search for this organization, and I think it’s important for us to take our time and get it right. This is the next leader of the Toronto Maple Leafs. We’ve gone through a thorough process. No timeline, no time constraints. When it’s right, we’ll make that decision, but we’re going to be patient.”
Getting to Know Gavin McKenna
Chayka also traveled to Whitehorse, Yukon, to visit with top prospect Gavin McKenna and his family. The general manager was impressed by McKenna’s character and background. “Really nice young man, really quality family, spent some quality time with them, got to know him,” Chayka said. “He’s a small-town kid. It’s a remote area of the world, very peaceful, but beautiful. Within that, I think there’s some real resolve around who he is and what his career means to him and his family. I find it impressive.” Notably, McKenna did not have a skating or skills coach until age 13, and his raw talent and instincts stood out to Chayka.
Legal Issue Addressed
Chayka also addressed McKenna’s alleged involvement in a bar fight in Pennsylvania in January, which resulted in a misdemeanor simple assault charge after a felony count was dropped. “I’ve personally talked to everyone involved, including Gavin, we understand the situation, and we’re comfortable,” Chayka said.
Max Domi’s Status
Forward Max Domi’s recovery from back surgery complications remains uncertain. Chayka described it as a “tough situation” and noted that the team will assess Domi’s progress during training camp. “He’s making great progress every day, which is the main thing,” Chayka added.
The Leafs continue their preparations for the draft and the upcoming season, with Chayka emphasizing a methodical approach to building the team’s future.
