A recent poll conducted by the Toronto Sun has revealed that Toronto Maple Leafs fans are demanding significant organizational changes if the team fails to qualify for the Stanley Cup playoffs this spring. The survey, which gathered responses from dedicated readers, indicates a strong consensus that both general manager Brad Treliving and head coach Craig Berube should be dismissed if the club misses the postseason for the first time since 2016.
Overwhelming Support for Management Changes
The poll results show that an overwhelming majority of respondents believe that Treliving and Berube should be held accountable for the team's potential playoff absence. Specifically, 80.3% of voters stated that Treliving should be fired if the Maple Leafs miss the playoffs, while 72.7% expressed the same sentiment regarding Berube. This reflects a deep-seated frustration among the fanbase, with many feeling that the team's performance has not met expectations.
Trade Deadline Priorities and Player Sentiments
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, fans have clear opinions on how the Maple Leafs should proceed. The top priority for a return in any trade, according to 46.3% of respondents, should be a first-round draft pick. Additionally, players like Morgan Rielly and Max Domi are viewed as expendable, with 62.8% of voters believing Rielly should be asked to waive his no-movement clause, and 45.7% supporting a trade involving Domi.
When it comes to unrestricted free agents, Calle Jarnkrok emerged as the player most fans want to see traded, receiving 40.7% of the votes. Bobby McMann followed closely with 38.8%, indicating a desire for roster adjustments to build for the future.
Fan Frustration and Future Outlook
The poll also captured the emotional state of Maple Leafs supporters, with 42.8% advocating for a tank strategy to win the draft lottery, while 31% expressed a resigned acceptance, noting that at least playoff failure might be avoided this spring. Only 4.1% of respondents remain optimistic about a playoff rebound, highlighting the widespread pessimism surrounding the team's current standing.
In terms of organizational leadership, 59.2% of fans believe that MLSE president and CEO Keith Pelley should prioritize hiring a new Leafs president at a high level, underscoring the demand for structural changes beyond just the coaching and management staff.
Overall, the Toronto Sun poll paints a picture of a disillusioned fanbase ready for a shake-up if the Maple Leafs cannot secure a playoff berth, with clear directives on trades, firings, and future planning.
