Leafs In A Tail Spin With Paul Hendrick

·44 min·4 clips

Kyle Dubas ignored the PR bullet points in his press conference, setting off a chain reaction that led to his exit.

The episode begins with hosts James and Dylan D. Fournier introducing guest Paul Hendrick, a longtime Maple Leafs reporter. Hendrick immediately compares the MLSC situation to an episode of Succession, setting the tone for a discussion on organizational dynamics. He delves into Kyle Dubas's exit, explaining how Dubas's unscripted comments in a press conference created uncertainty, prompting Shanahan and the board to reconsider his commitment. The conversation shifts to potential general manager replacements, with Hendrick mentioning Mark Hunter, Doug Armstrong, and even Dubas as candidates for other teams. A significant portion focuses on Auston Matthews's contract situation, with Hendrick predicting a five-year deal worth $13-14 million, making him the NHL's highest-paid player, and discussing the trend of shorter contracts for superstars. Hendrick emphasizes the difficulty of winning the Stanley Cup, citing examples like Connor McDavid and Alex Ovechkin, and argues against trading core players like Mitch Marner and William Nylander unless it brings substantial returns. He shares a personal story about Luke Schenn visiting his parents' condo as an 18-year-old, praising Schenn's character and hoping for his return to the Leafs. The hosts and Hendrick explore coaching options if Sheldon Keefe is replaced, mentioning Gerard Gallant, Claude Julien, and Dave Tippett. Hendrick reflects on his 25-year coverage of the Leafs, noting the rarity of such a talented young core and the impact of COVID on salary cap planning. The episode concludes with a lighthearted misunderstanding about 'softball questions,' which Hendrick clarifies, before wrapping up with appreciation for his insights.

As heard by us

Paul Hendrick gives Leafs history and context to an offseason still stuck in clear-as-mud uncertainty.

Paul Hendrick joins James and Dylan D. Fournier for a Leafs offseason discussion built around MLSE's influence and the unresolved futures of Austin, Nylander, and Matthews.

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Why you'd press play

Want the Leafs' pressure explained by Paul Hendrick, someone who spent time around the organization and still knows how it feels when expectations get heavy?

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