Sheldon Keefe faces termination following strange post game comments

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Hunter Bowman
May 5, 2024 (8:42)

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Last night, in a familiar scene, the Toronto Maple Leafs faced elimination in game 7 overtime against the Boston Bruins, continuing a trend of postseason disappointment. This marks the Leafs' seventh first-round exit in the last eight years, prompting discussions of major changes within the organization.

Head coach Sheldon Keefe's post-game comments hinted at the likelihood of his departure, particularly when he referred to the Leafs in the third person, stating, 'The Leafs to beat themselves.' This ongoing struggle to address weaknesses over eight consecutive years reflects poorly on Keefe's leadership.

"When teams play the Leafs, they set up the game for the Leafs to beat themselves."

Sheldon Keefe on the Leafs game 7 loss.

The playoff loss has dimmed hopes in Toronto that the core forward group can secure postseason success. Speculation is rife about the possibility of a significant trade involving star forward Mitch Marner. When questioned about the team's championship prospects, Keefe expressed faith in the group but acknowledged the challenge of getting his message across. Despite having a contract extension for next year, Keefe seems resigned to an imminent firing.

«We've been trying to break through for a long time here now. So any answer is gonna fall of deaf ears in a sense, and I get that. All I'll say is the group pulled together. There's reason for me to believe that this group will win.»

In his press conference, Keefe's use of the third person and acknowledgment of his message falling on deaf ears signal a readiness for the inevitable. Despite the team's effort in game 7, consensus is growing that a major overhaul is necessary.

Source: Oilersdaily
Leafs coach Keefe knows he will be fired with strange quote post game