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Pierre LeBrun confirms what everyone already knew about Brad Treliving and the Leafs


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Alexander Cole
December 30, 2025  (8:10 PM)
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Jun 1, 2023; Toronto, Ontario, CANADA; Toronto Maple Leafs new general manager Brad Treliving is introduced at a press conference at Scotiabank Arena.
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving has a difficult job right now, as he has to balance the demands of the fanbase and the realities of his roster.

Brad Treliving is being asked to do the impossible right now. If there is one thing that is clear about this Maple Leafs roster, it is that it is not good enough to compete.
The offense isn't good enough, the defense can't generate any offense, and the goaltenders are constantly getting injured. These failures rest on Treliving's shoulders, and some moves have to be made.
Of course, Treliving can go in two directions here. He can either sell off assets and try again next year, or he can be a buyer and go for it this season.
It is a hard decision to make, especially when you consider how the Maple Leafs are last in the Atlantic Division, and don't have much ground to stand on.

Pierre LeBrun on Brad Treliving and the Leafs

According to Pierre LeBrun of TSN, Treliving has made up his mind. The team is going to buy. They are five points back of a Wild Card spot, and they don't see any reason to wave the white flag on the season.
The standings still very tight, general manager Brad Treliving isn't ready to wave the white flag just yet
Some may find a decision like this to be completely egregious, especially when you consider how the team hasn't been able to show any sort of playoff potential this season.
However, when you are the general manager of a team like the Maple Leafs, you have to show some kind of belief; otherwise, you're going to get scrutinized.
These decisions are not easy ones, and you can't envy Treliving's position right now. Having said that, Leafs fans have every right to be skeptical about strategy.
Becoming sellers and hoarding assets for next season could prove to be fruitful. A retool would be smart here, especially if Auston Matthews continues to be on the decline.
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Pierre LeBrun confirms what everyone already knew about Brad Treliving and the Leafs

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